Have you noticed the beautiful water color on the wall in the church hall beside the kitchen window? It was very generously donated to St. Charles Parish by one of its long time members, Joan Chase. Painting has been her passion for the last eight years. The painting was created using a mixed medium with water color technique creating a floating, transparent effect.
Joan described how the people of St. Charles Parish inspired her to do this painting. “I was most impressed with how hard the parishioners worked and the togetherness and the fellowship extended to one another and to our family. There is such a beauty in all of this and it is truly a feeling of comfort to be part of it. I feel that I am among the most beautiful angels and this gives me peace as I have never felt so loved.”
I inquired about the symbolism in the painting. Joan explained,”Charlie’s Angles represents the people of St. Charles Parish. In the front are the younger members seeking nurturing and guidance. In the center are the women with their gentle determination and approach to what needs to be done. In the back, the non-faces represent the men and the silent workers as well as those who are with us in spirit”.
When I asked Joan what she gets out of her painting experience she quickly said,”It gives me peace. We all need to escape now and then. When I pick up a brush, I feel God’s hand on mine as He helps me to paint the world and its miracles. It is He who taught me that there is an artist in everyone. This is a belief I prove as I teach others to paint”.
