Photographer Josh Michtom has immortalized a selection of ‘Bathtub Madonnas’ he’s found in the Somerville, Massachusetts area. Displayed most commonly by families of Italian descent, these shrines may, for some, be unexpected arrangements on suburban front lawns.
For many wishing to display Our Lady out of doors, the use of a bathtub has proven to be a popular solution to shelter her votive statue. The makeshift grottos can be found in endless colours and models giving neighboring ‘Bathtub’ Madonnas distinctive character.
Eclectic Religious Art
‘Bathtub Madonnas' Stand Perpetually Cleansed in Suburbia
Trend Themes
1. Religious Lawn Shrines - There is an opportunity for businesses to disrupt the religious artifact market by creating new and unique lawn shrines for people to display their devotion.
2. Outdoor Religious Decor - As more people put religious decor outside, companies can push innovation further by creating sustainable, weather-resistant materials for long-term outdoor use.
3. Eclectic Yard Displays - Businesses can disrupt the home decor industry by catering to homeowners' increased desire for unique outdoor displays that reflect their personality and values.
Industry Implications
1. Religious Artifacts - The religious artifact market has an opportunity to create new and innovative pieces for people to display outdoors, including sustainable materials and unique designs.
2. Home Decor - As more people choose to display eclectic yard art, the home decor industry can target this niche and create unique, personalized decor options for outdoor use.
3. Photography - As photographers capture more unique yard displays like the 'Bathtub Madonnas', they can offer their services to homeowners wishing to document their own unique outdoor decor.