St Frannie & the Wolf
The Artwork
This illustration, inspired by the legendary tale of Saint Francis and the Wolf of Gubbio, reflects a deep admiration for both the saint and his message of peace and reconciliation. Created using traditional linocut printmaking techniques, the piece merges the spiritual with the symbolic, drawing from the rich iconography associated with Saint Francis but adding a unique twist. Instead of the saint's usual tonsure, the monk’s head is replaced by the wolf, representing the harmonious bond formed between the saint and the creature he tamed. This visual transformation speaks to the deep connection between humanity, nature, and divine grace, echoing the legend where Francis calls the wolf "Brother" and brings peace to the village. The bold, graphic lines and contrasting textures typical of linocut work enhance the stark yet profound message of the illustration: that true peace comes not through domination, but through understanding and compassion. The piece captures the spirit of Saint Francis’s mission, embodying the hope of reconciliation in both the spiritual and natural worlds.
Original Story
In the town of Gubbio, a fierce wolf terrorized the villagers, killing livestock and people, including a shepherd and his family. The mayor sought help from Saint Francis, who was known for his ability to communicate with animals. Francis journeyed to Gubbio, where he met the wolf in the woods and discovered that the creature, injured and abandoned by his pack, was only acting out of hunger and self-defense. After hearing the wolf's side, Francis proposed a solution: the townspeople would feed the wolf in exchange for his promise to stop killing them and their livestock. The villagers, initially skeptical, eventually accepted the wolf as "Brother Wolf," and he lived peacefully with them for two more years, becoming a symbol of forgiveness and harmony.
