June 2023 Art Update - Jesus Wants to Heal You
June 2023 Art Update
Happy end of June!
This month, I was on a podcast and shared my own healing story! I also created images to assist in healing - from a wedding portrait of a deceased wife to an image of healing for the wound of abortion. Keep reading to see what’s been on my heart and canvas these days!:)
Art Updates
June is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and I felt the Lord wanted me to paint something in honor of the anniversary of the overturning of Roe v. Wade which is June 24th! So based on the prompt “a world without abortion”, I came up with this image that shows the healing I believe Jesus wants to bring to those who have participated in abortion once it’s illegal once and for all. To read more of my thoughts and meaning behind this image, go to my Instagram!
I recently finished this wedding portrait of a couple who was married at Holy Name of Jesus church in 1952! His bride unfortunately passed away a few years ago so when he saw my article in The Leaven last month, he called me. At first he only wanted his wife to be painted, but we convinced him to paint both bride and groom. I loved the challenge of developing the colors from my imagination since all I had to work from was a black and white photo.
Church of the Ascension has some interesting ideas up their sleeves for Advent this year! I was able to contribute these designs for their event this winter. And that’s all I can say about that for now!
I’ve always wanted to try gouache paint (sort of like an opaque watercolor). So I did color studies of a few of my favorite paintings by Claire Keane, Justin Sweet, and Rose Datoc Dall! Mine definitely pale in comparison, but I loved the studying their techniques. I’m definitely going to be doing more master studies in the future.
I’ve been posting a behind the scenes video on the triptychs every Monday on my Instagram. So far, we’re up to part 6! Will this series ever end? Will the triptychs ever be installed? Only time will tell, faithful followers.
I was on the New Manna podcast! If you’ve ever wondered what exactly went into my decision to go full time with art, I tell the full story here. We also talk about falling in love with Jesus in the Eucharist and healing.
You Will Save Her prints are in!
Those who pre-ordered these St. Raphael prints last month know that they’ve finally arrived! If you’re looking for a thoughtful wedding gift this summer or know someone who has a special devotion to their guardian angel, these prints are perfect.
Click the button below to grab yours today!
I recommend getting the 12”x16” - the larger size really captures all the detail.
To read about the story and symbols embedded in this piece, go back to last month’s update!
I know summertime can be a time to slow down for many people. I’ve been really thinking about what it means to rest as a self employed artist. Many times I stress out because I feel I’m not doing enough - there’s no manager looking over my shoulder so it’s up to me to set deadlines and stay on task.
But God has been teaching me that He created us for more than just work, rest, work, rest. He wants us to drink deeply from all that life has to offer. Yes, that means working towards a noble purpose in a career, but it also means an integrated life full of friendship, laughter, and virtue.
This upcoming July, I pray we all might learn more and more what it truly means to be human. I’m still figuring it out!
God Bless You!
-Mattie
