Creed and consequences: The making of "Religious History"

Even as I contemplate a "No new projects" New Year's resolution, I couldn't help but devote this week to fine-tuning the installation of two new works that'll be part of Artspace Out of Bounds, showing through January at Blackfish Gallery, 420 N.W. Ninth Ave, Portland, OR.

Born of serendipity and frustration with how religious conflict plays out (historically, now, and likely the future), the work above—entitled Religious History—combines an 1877 Christian creed with nails. I've since learned these four-sided old-school nails are called "cut" nails—even better.

After I stumbled upon this handsome but not readily accessible (it's in German, for starters) hardbound book and had an idea what to do with it, it was months before I got up the nerve to pick up the hammer. As a bookbinder, I felt a bit chagrined to "do harm." Physically, it was harder than I thought it would be. It also felt kind of good.

The opening reception for Artspace Out of Bounds is 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Jan. 6. I'd love to see you there! Regular gallery hours run 11 to 5 Tuesday through Saturday.