Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: Creating a Sacred Mural

It's incredible to think that centuries ago, some of the greatest artists in history were creating masterpieces so intricate and beautiful that they still rival contemporary art today. Each sacred mural was crafted without the modern tools and conveniences we have now, yet their impact continues to inspire.

For the past year and a half, I’ve embarked on a new artistic journey unlike anything I’ve done before: creating my own version of a Sistine Chapel or a modern interpretation of the Annunciation of the Angel Gabriel. This unexpected project has challenged and inspired me in ways I never imagined.

Thankfully, I’m not doing this alone. I have a creative partner by my side, making the process more collaborative and less overwhelming. Together, we plan, brainstorm, and solve problems. Unlike some of the greatest artists from history, who have created these monuments, we do not have a line of assistance, something I think about often.

This journey has been as much about creative exploration as it has been about appreciating the great works of art that came before us. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of art to connect us across time and space. Follow along as I share updates and insights from this sacred mural project!

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  Sistine Chapel: The Vatican Museum

Reviving the Tradition of Religious Ceiling Murals

This incredible opportunity came to me through my long-time colleague, Cathy Avram. Cathy and I have crossed paths over the years at the Art Students League of Denver, where we’ve both been teaching for more than 18 years. Cathy is a versatile artist, working across many mediums, and has also done restoration work for the Archdiocese of Denver.

Through her trusted expertise, the Archdiocese approached her about creating a ceiling mural to house several departing gifts from the Pope to Cardinal Stafford. Cardinal Stafford, whose time at the Vatican recently ended, is now retired, and this mural will serve as part of his lasting legacy. This collaboration merges art, history, and faith into one meaningful project.

The Sacred Mural's Purpose and Significance

This ceiling mural, commissioned by the Moore Family Trust, carries a compelling narrative. The artwork will reside in a newly opened space next to Cardinal Stafford’s library, a venue where seminarians have studied for years. Now, enriched with this mural and accompanying historic artifacts, this once-private library will become accessible to the public.

The mural’s creation celebrates the Cardinal’s legacy and acts as a tribute to his contributions. Featured alongside the mural will be the renowned St. John’s Bibles, stunning hand-painted masterpieces commissioned by Queen Elizabeth herself to her personal calligrapher Donald Jackson. These extraordinary elements together create a deeply spiritual and artistic environment reflective of years of effort, faith, and dedication.

The Craftsmanship Behind the Mural

For the past two years, we’ve been meeting regularly to discuss the potential of this mural project. It wasn’t until fall 2024 that the vision and plans truly began to take shape. The significance of this ceiling mural holds great meaning for everyone involved, so every step of planning and execution has been approached with care and precision.

Over the past six months, Cathy and I have extensively researched mural painting methods, materials, and its history. After careful consideration, we decided not to paint directly on the ceiling. While it was an option, this commissioned artwork is created in oil, so we chose to work in our studios and install it afterward. This approach ensures the highest quality and longevity for this stunning ceiling mural.

Why Not Paint the Mural Directly on the Ceiling?

One of our biggest decisions revolved around how the mural would be executed. Traditionally, murals are painted directly onto ceilings, but we chose to complete our work in-studio to ensure the highest quality. Working with oil paint, which isn’t feasible for on-site ceiling work, and using premium materials like quadruple-primed French linen and 23-karat Italian gold leaf has allowed us to maintain precision.

The Obstacles of a Complex Project

Every large-scale art project brings its own set of challenges. From navigating technical hurdles to unexpected material quirks, this endeavor has taught us the value of flexibility and problem-solving. Overcoming these obstacles has only deepened our appreciation for the artists of history who, with far fewer resources, created masterpieces we still admire today.

The time, care, and budgetary investment required for projects like these are monumental. Yet, the results remind us of the rich legacy of fine art, a tradition often lost in favor of today’s fast and mass-produced alternatives.

Looking Ahead

Our work is far from complete. While the mural’s composition, design, and preparatory work have made significant progress, the installation and finishing touches remain ahead. This is just the beginning of a story that we hope will resonate for years to come.

What Comes Next for the Mural

This blog marks the first chapter of documenting this extraordinary mural project. My next post will take a closer look at the art itself, its symbolic elements, and the historical references that have informed our vision. I can’t wait to share how the imagery of angelic annunciations and religious grandeur has guided us throughout this creative process.

A Celebration of Artistic Legacy

This ceiling mural is more than just paint on a surface; it’s a reflection of centuries-old traditions infused with modern dedication and craft. It’s a reminder that the time-honored art of mural painting can serve as a bridge between past and present, inspiring both religious communities and art enthusiasts alike.

For those following this journey, I hope this glimpse into the process and purpose of this project inspires your own appreciation for art and its enduring power. Stay tuned for part two, where I’ll showcase the art’s rich details, historical significance, and enduring impact.

Are you a fellow art enthusiast or curious about the intersection of creativity and faith? Share your thoughts in the comments below or reach out—I’d love to hear from you.