Italian artist painted sketches that connect sacred history with art.
By Violeta Rocha / Special to Catholic Magazine Dallas
DALLAS—When the parish community of Nuestra Señora del Pilar (NSP) in Dallas saw its temple built in 2007, its original idea was to capture Catholic iconography on top of the sanctuary, not only as a way to beautify it, but to make more present the images of sacred life.
However, it was not until now, as the celebration of its 25 years approached, that the project saw the light of day.
On August 14, Bishop Edward J. Burns visited the parish and blessed the iconographer, Giuseppe Cartolano, and his assistants, who worked for several weeks between August and early September, transforming the church into an art workshop with cranes, paintbrushes, and boats. of paint, to start this first stage of beautification.
The icons remember moments such as Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, the crucifixion, Pentecost and the Resurrection of the Lord, among others.
Iconographer Giuseppe Cartolano explains to the community of Nuestra Señora del Pilar his work of painting icons with images of sacred history, on August 24. Special for RC/Tacho Dimas
“This blessing is a significant recognition of the dedication and talent of Giuseppe Cartolano in creating sacred icons that enrich our sanctuary and deepen our faith,” parish priest Father Roshan Fernandes wrote to his community on social media.
“We are grateful for the bishop’s support and encouragement of this sacred art form and look forward to continuing to be inspired by beautiful works.”
CLOSER TO GOD
On August 24, the community gathered to listen to the iconographer about his work and admire the work.
Father Roshan explained that it was the Spanish artist and founder of the Neocatechumenal Way, Francisco José “Kiko” Gómez Argüello, who initiated this type of iconography and did it to announce the love of God.
“Icons unite us with the love of God, which unites heaven and earth. “Christ has come to open heaven for us and this form of art invites us to get closer to God,” the priest said.
Parishioners of the Church of Our Lady of Pilar gathered on August 24 in the parish, to celebrate the completion of several icons painted to adorn the church sanctuary. Photo: Special for RC/Tacho Dimas
Last July 19, the Italian artist Giuseppe Cartolano began the project with the help of an assistant, parishioners and six seminarians from Redemtoris Mater in Dallas.
In 18 years of apostolate, Cartolano has painted more than 30 iconography in different parts of the world, always praying Lauds, before starting to paint.
“The icons speak of theology and transcendence, surpassing romanticism and sentimentality, explained Cartolano.
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The Annunciation of the angel Gabriel to Mary is one of two icons already completed. The community awaits the return of the Italian artist to conclude the project they have waited for several years. Photo: Special for RC/Tacho Dimas
