Hold Me For Love
St James Church

Yinka Ilori created a bespoke Christmas card for St James Church, celebrating benevolence, faith, and shared humanity.

Rooted in the belief that benevolence is the origin of all faith and coexistence, the artwork reflects St James Church’s commitment to living out the core principles of Christianity, while extending beyond boundaries of belief, background, or identity. It speaks to the idea that whoever we love, wherever we live, and whatever we do, we all emerge from the same source: a shared origin that fuels our capacity to live, hope, and dream.

At a time when traditional expressions of faith may be evolving, the artwork highlights the enduring power of hope, spirituality, and community. It invites reflection on what truly connects us, encouraging recognition of the often unseen yet deeply held values that unite society.

Visually, the artwork presents the church as an open, nurturing community. At its centre sits a circular form reminiscent of a womb, symbolising origin, care, and protection, cradled by guardian hands. This central space contains a series of symbols representing the causes and beliefs upheld by St James Church.

Rendered in a mosaic-like style, the piece reinforces the idea that each individual is part of a greater whole. By respecting one another and coming together, we can create something beautiful, a peaceful and compassionate world.

Symbolism within the artwork includes:

• Heart - Love
• Hand - Community
• Eye - Understanding and awareness
• Circle - Unity and wholeness
• Star - Guidance
• Rainbow - Inclusiveness
• Leaf - Care for the environment
• Candle - Spirituality in its broadest sense
• Venus symbol - Women’s rights
• Q - Quobna Ottobah Cugoano

Client
St James Church

Practice
Graphic Design