Now showing in the Narthex: Cows of Colour, an original exhibit by Peter Szto, installed for the 2025 Race, Religion & Social Justice (RRSJ) Conference. Szto’s photographic work uses the image of cattle as a visual metaphor for racial identity, inviting us to see color—and each other—anew. “What if we could see others without the bias that shades our vision?” he asks. Through a series of striking and symbolic portraits, this exhibit stirs joy, reflection, and hope for more vibrant and healthy race relations. Now through July. Stop by and take a look!
Artist Statement by Peter Szto:
Race relations lie at the heart of what it means to be human. After all, we come in all shapes, sizes, and skin tones. As the classic children’s song reminds us: “Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight.”
Yet throughout history, conflict over land, limited resources, and power has scarred our sense of shared humanity. Will we ever live in peace? My answer is a resounding yes—but only if we can learn to see our fellow humans in a new way.
What would it take to see others without the bias and prejudice that so often cloud our vision? What kind of corrective lens might help remove the speck from our eye, so we can perceive people in a more enlightened and colorful way?
This exhibit seeks to reimagine appreciation. It is an invitation to think freshly, perceive differently, and affirm more fully. To see transcendentally—and to be redeemed.
Cows of Colour is a visual metaphor for healthy race relations. It echoes the phrase “people of color” by focusing our eyes on cattle—cherished creatures of multiple value to humanity. Cows provide milk, food, leather, and hold religious significance for many. They also present a natural kaleidoscope of hues to admire.
The purpose of my exhibit is to bring pleasure—and to stir self-reflection on color. On how the colors of people, like the colors of cows, might be not only accepted, but truly cherished.