catherine

Originally from Herkimer County in Central NY, I now live with my husband,
Michael, and daughter, Nicole, in historic Leesburg, VA, an hour drive from
our nation’s capital.

I paint primarily in watercolor, a medium that I was introduced to in the
1980s, and have been hooked on ever since. The subjects of my paintings
vary from wedding vow portraits and intimate views of nature, to depictions
of Jesus’ greatest gift to us on the cross.

I use nature symbolically in my work to give witness to God’s holy presence
among and within us. Flower petals become like arms lifted up around a
heart in communion with the Creator. Colorful autumn leaves express a
celebration of life and a promise of new growth. Barren trees serve as a
reminder that even if something seems without life, it still has the potential
to bear new leaves and fruit if the roots are strong and deep.

Openly sharing that my reason for painting was to communicate God’s
truth, love and everyday presence was more difficult than I had expected. In
2003, after a year of prayer and discernment, and meeting other local
artists longing for the same support, the Lord lead me in founding the
Christian Artists Circle (CAC), a forum in which artists can share their work,
exchange ideas, and pray for one another. This growing community is now
an outreach ministry of Archangel Arts Center.

I am strengthened and inspired by the many artists that I have met and
continue to meet through the CAC and Artists for a Renewed Society (a
Catholic artist support group based in Washington, DC). The most
influential artists in my life have been Tomas and Bonnie Fernandez. I was
first inspired by Crux Gloria, a “cross of light” Tomas sculpted for my parish,
St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Purcellville, VA. My heart
immediately connected with it in 1996, and I have been painting the cross
ever since. I am grateful for Bonnie and Tomas’ combined vision, courage
and generosity of time, talent, and treasure that have made Archangel Arts
Center a reality and a source of great support to me and other artists near
and far.

Today, I am at a point where my artwork has become synonymous with my
heart’s work because my art is as much about words and actions as it is
about paint and technique. Writing about my work, teaching art,
coordinating the Christian Artists Circle, and working as an art therapist
have taught me how art can become a vehicle to bring peace, joy and
comfort to others.

Art has helped me draw nearer to God and enjoy a special closeness with
Him. My greatest joy as an artist is when sharing my gifts and talents helps
others to do the same.

To commission a wedding vows portrait, inquire about artwork currently
available for sale, or to learn more about Catherine’s art classes, please
send an email to linguaart@hotmail.net.

A limited selection of Catherine's work is also made available as cards and
limited edition prints through The Christian Shoppe in Purcellville, VA and
Archangel Arts Center in Madison, VA.