Holy Frit ( 2021 )

Holy Frit: A Journey of Faith, Art, and Unexpected Glass

Holy Frit, a 2021 documentary directed by Justin Favela and Andrew McAllister, is more than just a film about stained glass. It's a captivating narrative about artistic ambition, unwavering faith, the complexities of collaboration, and the transformative power of taking a leap of faith, even when the landing is uncertain. The film follows Scott Erickson, a self-taught artist primarily known for his performance art and speaking engagements within religious communities, as he embarks on an audacious project: creating a massive stained glass window for his church in Waco, Texas. With no prior experience in stained glass, Erickson's journey is a rollercoaster of challenges, setbacks, moments of inspiration, and the forging of unlikely partnerships.

The Genesis of an Idea: From Stage to Stained Glass

The documentary begins by establishing Erickson's background as an artist and speaker. He's portrayed as a charismatic and thoughtful individual who connects with audiences through his relatable stories and artistic interpretations of faith. The film subtly hints at Erickson's desire to move beyond the ephemeral nature of his performance art and create something tangible and lasting. The opportunity arises when his church, a modern and progressive congregation, commissions him to design and fabricate a stained glass window for their new building. This commission represents not only a significant artistic challenge for Erickson but also a profound expression of his faith and a desire to contribute meaningfully to his community.

The sheer scale of the project is immediately apparent. Erickson envisions a window that is not only aesthetically beautiful but also deeply symbolic, reflecting the values and beliefs of his church. However, the initial enthusiasm quickly gives way to the realization of the monumental task ahead. He lacks the technical skills, the specialized equipment, and the network of artisans necessary to bring his vision to life. This sets the stage for a journey of learning, adaptation, and collaboration.

A Dive into the Unknown: The Challenges of Stained Glass

Holy Frit doesn't shy away from portraying the daunting technical complexities of stained glass art. The film offers glimpses into the various stages of the process, from the initial design and pattern creation to the cutting, painting, firing, and leading of the glass. Erickson is shown struggling to master these techniques, often relying on the guidance and expertise of experienced glass artists. The learning curve is steep, and the challenges are numerous. He faces issues with glass breakage, color inconsistencies, and the intricacies of leading the glass panels together securely. These moments of frustration and setbacks humanize Erickson, making his journey all the more relatable and inspiring.

One of the key challenges Erickson faces is finding the right collaborators. He initially works with a local glass artist, but their creative visions clash, leading to a parting of ways. This experience underscores the importance of finding collaborators who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also share a similar artistic sensibility and a willingness to work together towards a common goal.

Enter Narcissus Quagliata: A Master of Glass

The turning point in Erickson's journey comes with the introduction of Narcissus Quagliata, a renowned Italian stained glass artist. Quagliata, a master of his craft with decades of experience, represents the highest level of expertise and artistry in the world of stained glass. His work is characterized by its bold colors, intricate designs, and profound emotional depth. Erickson reaches out to Quagliata seeking guidance and mentorship, hoping to learn from the best and elevate his project to a new level. Quagliata, initially hesitant due to his busy schedule and Erickson's lack of experience, is eventually won over by Erickson's passion, determination, and the unique artistic vision he brings to the table.

The collaboration between Erickson and Quagliata becomes the heart of the film. It's a fascinating dynamic between a seasoned master and an eager apprentice, each bringing their unique perspectives and skills to the project. Quagliata challenges Erickson to push his artistic boundaries and refine his technical skills, while Erickson inspires Quagliata with his fresh ideas and unconventional approach to stained glass. Their partnership is not without its challenges, as they navigate cultural differences, language barriers, and differing artistic philosophies. However, their mutual respect and shared passion for the project ultimately allow them to overcome these obstacles and create something truly extraordinary.

The Collaborative Process: A Symphony of Skill and Vision

The film provides a compelling look into the collaborative process between Erickson and Quagliata. It shows them working side-by-side in Quagliata's studio in Mexico, experimenting with different techniques, discussing design choices, and pushing each other to achieve their best work. The film highlights the importance of communication, trust, and compromise in a successful artistic collaboration. It also emphasizes the value of learning from others and embracing different perspectives. Erickson learns invaluable lessons from Quagliata about the technical aspects of stained glass, while Quagliata is inspired by Erickson's willingness to take risks and experiment with new ideas.

The collaboration extends beyond Erickson and Quagliata. The film also features other skilled artisans who contribute to the project, including glass painters, lead specialists, and installers. Each of these individuals plays a crucial role in bringing the stained glass window to life. The film underscores the fact that creating a work of art on this scale is a team effort, requiring the collective skills and talents of many individuals.

Faith, Doubt, and Artistic Expression

Throughout the film, Erickson grapples with questions of faith, doubt, and artistic expression. He sees the stained glass window as an opportunity to express his beliefs and connect with his community. However, he also wrestles with the pressure of creating something that is both aesthetically beautiful and spiritually meaningful. The film explores the tension between artistic freedom and religious tradition, and the challenges of creating art that resonates with a diverse audience.

Erickson's journey is not without its moments of doubt and uncertainty. He questions his abilities, his artistic choices, and the overall purpose of the project. However, his faith and his commitment to his community ultimately sustain him through these difficult times. The film suggests that the act of creating art can be a form of spiritual practice, a way of connecting with something larger than oneself.

The Installation: A Moment of Triumph

The climax of the film is the installation of the stained glass window in Erickson's church in Waco, Texas. This is a moment of triumph and culmination, representing the end of a long and arduous journey. The film captures the excitement and anticipation as the window is carefully lifted into place. The finished product is a stunning work of art, a testament to Erickson's vision, Quagliata's expertise, and the collaborative spirit of the entire team. The window is not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful, reflecting the values and beliefs of the church community.

The installation is not without its challenges. The film shows the difficulties of maneuvering the massive glass panels into place and ensuring that they are securely installed. However, the team overcomes these obstacles with patience, skill, and a shared determination to see the project through to completion. The final shot of the stained glass window bathed in sunlight is a powerful image of beauty, hope, and the transformative power of art.

The Legacy of Holy Frit: More Than Just a Window

Holy Frit is more than just a film about a stained glass window. It's a story about the power of collaboration, the importance of faith, and the transformative potential of art. The film reminds us that even the most daunting challenges can be overcome with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from others. It also highlights the importance of taking risks and embracing the unknown, even when the outcome is uncertain.

The legacy of Holy Frit extends beyond the stained glass window itself. The film has inspired audiences around the world with its message of hope, creativity, and community. It has also sparked conversations about the role of art in religious institutions and the importance of supporting artists who are pushing the boundaries of their craft.

Themes and Motifs in Holy Frit

Several key themes and motifs recur throughout Holy Frit, adding depth and complexity to the narrative. These include:

• Faith and Doubt: The film explores the tension between faith and doubt, both in Erickson's personal life and in the broader context of religious belief.
• Artistic Collaboration: The collaboration between Erickson and Quagliata highlights the power of teamwork, communication, and mutual respect in the creative process.
• The Pursuit of Excellence: The film emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence in one's craft, even in the face of challenges and setbacks.
• Transformation: The journey of creating the stained glass window is a transformative experience for Erickson, both artistically and personally.
• Community: The film underscores the importance of community and the role that art can play in bringing people together.

Critical Reception and Impact

Holy Frit has received generally positive reviews from critics, who have praised its compelling narrative, its stunning visuals, and its insightful exploration of faith and art. The film has been screened at numerous film festivals around the world, winning awards for its direction, cinematography, and storytelling. It has also been praised for its accessibility, appealing to both art enthusiasts and viewers who are interested in faith-based narratives.

The film's impact extends beyond the art world. It has been used as a tool for dialogue and reflection within religious communities, sparking conversations about the role of art in worship and the importance of supporting creative expression. Holy Frit serves as a reminder that art can be a powerful force for good, capable of inspiring hope, fostering understanding, and transforming lives.

Holy Frit: Cast and Crew

Holy Frit: Production Details

Key Moments in the Film

The Art of Narcissus Quagliata

Scott Erickson's Artistic Evolution

Impact on the Church Community

Conclusion: A Testament to Human Creativity and Collaboration

Holy Frit stands as a remarkable documentary, not just for its captivating story but also for its profound exploration of human creativity, faith, and the power of collaboration. Scott Erickson's audacious journey, from a novice with a vision to a capable artist, is a testament to the transformative potential of embracing challenges and seeking guidance from masters. The film beautifully captures the intricate process of stained glass creation, highlighting the artistry and dedication required. More importantly, it underscores the significance of art as a means of expressing faith, fostering community, and inspiring hope. Holy Frit is a celebration of the human spirit and a reminder that even the most ambitious dreams can be realized with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from others.