CRUCIFIXION AND RESURRECTION - 1963
AIn a pair of mosaics that are installed on adjacent exterior walls of a mausoleum, Van Sant depicted the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Each image is focused on a single figure, which occupies the central space of a rectangular slab of marble. In one, a robed and bearded man with a halo is being crucified; in the other he is seen in profile rising up toward the top right corner of his marble support. While their earth toned palette and pale backgrounds are restrained in comparison to Byzantine mosaics, the flattened spaces and linear emphasis of these mosaics suggests the influence of early Christian art. There is also a clear stylistic link to the work of Millard Sheets.
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Santa Clara Mission Cemetery
2370 North H Street, Oxnard, CA 93036
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1963
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Paul Iacono & Associates
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Glass mosaic inlaid in travertine marble.
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Travertine support, approx. 8 ft. x 5 ft
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Unknown
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Santa Clara Mission Cemetery
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The mosaics are in their original location. The glass tesserae appear to have been exposed to water damage.
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TVS digital records
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Structural Engineer Paul E. Iacono “was involved in numerous partnerships and eventually became a Design-Build Contractor specializing in Mausoleums, Auto Dealerships, and the development of light industrial buildings in the Bay Area.”[1]
When the Catholic Church eliminated its prohibition against cremation in 1963, Iacono, a Catholic, built at least one Mausoleum at the Catholic Santa Clara Mission Cemetery for interring cremated remains.
As with other of his artworks for Christian institutions, Van Sant used traditional Christian imagery in these mosaics to emphasize the religion’s faith in life after death.
[1] "Paul Iacono Obituary," Daily Breeze, Sep. 4-Sep. 6, 2013
