A few weeks ago I received a visit from local reporter Robyn Kenney. She took a look around the studio and asked me a few questions about myself and my work. Take a look!

It was a pleasure having you stop by, Robyn! Thanks for the spot.

For the truly time-pressed, find a 30-second teaser version below: 

Things unreal have never seemed quite so real as in our present time. 

The special effects of our movies and video games offer us worlds upon worlds that can occupy us, entertain us, and oftentimes distract us completely from the real world. Such experiences can often be pleasant and perhaps even harmless in moderation, but for our culture and society, so consumed by these images and the unreality they represent, they can become a poison that is constantly consumed. Perhaps these simulated realities are today's "opiate of the masses."

In stark contrast to this dithering and dizzying world of modern entertainment stands the mission of the Catholic Artist in our times. The Catholic Artist's task is to understand and imagine reality and create forms that reflect the beauty of that reality. As John Paul II said in his Letter to Artists: "Every genuine artistic intuition goes beyond what the senses perceive and, reaching beneath reality's surface, strives to interpret its hidden mystery."
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For many Catholic artists this involves trying to articulate and communicate some of the deepest realities of our Faith in tangible forms. Most of us will never physically see these realities in this life, but the work of the artist makes them visible, understandable, and imaginable to us. Thus, when an artist reverently and skillfully portrays the mystery of the Trinity, angels, Principalities and Powers, and the holiness of saints through analogy and symbol, crafting his medium and stretching his intellect to understand and portray these things, it would be wrong for us to dismiss them as "a pleasant fantasy" or to comfort ourselves like good Enlightenment thinkers saying "that isn't real." That would in fact be exactly and precisely upside-down. Rather we should be like Moses recognizing we are on holy ground - truly great Catholic art gives us a glimpse into the depths of reality that we so often blithely ignore. 

I am very honored and excited - humbled as well, when I consider the potential of the task - to be included in a merry band of Catholic artists seeking to portray the beauties of reality as I have just described. When I first saw the Catholic Artists' Directory I eagerly looked through at my fellow artists and was very encouraged by what I saw. I encourage you to uncover the treasures of art that are being produced today by some of the most skilled workmen and visionaries in the Catholic tradition. I encourage you to look through and get to know these very gifted artists working right now across the country and the world and to start dreaming some big dreams. Perhaps some of these men and women could bring beauty to your parish or your home. Now is the perfect time to reach out. 

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What a thoughtful gift idea on the part of Molly and her siblings! It was clear to us that they love their dad and are extremely proud of him.
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We’re so delighted that Coach Murphy was pleased with his Christmas morning surprise and that he is currently enjoying the painting in his office. John had a fantastic time with this commission and was honored to have a part in celebrating and commemorating a great moment in college sports. ​

1) The process is fluid. 

A patron may expect to walk in, have the artist line up three shots systematically, execute according to a clear set of rules, and then wash hands and send the client home. What you need to keep in mind is that John is an artist by trade, not a surgeon. He doesn't know in advance exactly how it will go, how many photos he'll shoot, or exactly what colors he'll use; the process is intuitive and depends on variables like the light and the mood. While there are certain things you can expect, not every aspect is predictable. 

By trying different poses and draping and by working with the natural light, John will gradually hone in on the shot or shots that seem to capture the subject handsomely and achieve the desired goals for the painting. 

2) The photoshoot takes some time.

Because, as we've noted, the process is a gradual one, it's best not to rush it. John will want some great pictures to work with at the end of the session. So he'll want to ensure that he's explored different options and that he's caught you from your best angle and you're looking and feeling comfortable. For this to happen, expect that two hours will fly by.
(We were a little pressed for time when we did the photoshoot for my portrait, but we enjoyed it nonetheless and got some good results!)

3) Sitting for your formal portrait painting is not intimidating. 

You don't have to be an experienced model (or anything closet to it) in order to do this! While having your portrait painted is a very exciting event and the result can be very formal, the process doesn't have to be. With John, you can expect a quiet studio atmosphere and his typical laid-back manner. Some drinks and snacks will be provided so you can stay comfortable while you hang out. You'll be encouraged to bring a friend along with you to help you feel at ease. For child portraits, one or both parents will be present throughout the session. Depending on my schedule, I'll be available as well as John's assistant in making you feel comfortable and look your best. 

Some tips for getting the most out of your portrait painting photoshoot: 
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• Plan your wardrobe in advance. Choose 1-2 looks you really want. How will you want to be remembered in a piece that will likely remain in your family or institution for generations? In most cases, you'll want to select something classic and timeless, while also thinking about what makes you comfortable and is you. We are happy to consult with you about your choices in the weeks leading up to your session.
  
  

• Consider props. John can discuss if you have desires about certain items you want to incorporate into the portrait to add interest and tell your story. 
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• Avoid self-consciousness with mental preparation. If you are afraid that you'll feel awkward or uncomfortable while sitting for your photo, prepare yourself with these thoughts: What will it mean to your loved ones, family, or institution to have a portrait of you? (Answer: a lot! You're doing this for them!) When you see a beautiful portrait of someone else, what do you think of them? (Answer: I'll bet it's never "that person is vain" or "that person looks ridiculous")
  If you're coming in to have your portrait done, there's probably a good reason that means a lot to someone or many people -- focus on that and you'll be fine! And remember, John is honored to paint your portrait. For every portrait patron who was ever painted in beautiful, classical style, there was an artist grateful for the work and the chance to use the skill he took years to develop!
  
  
• Set children up for success. Use your best parenting practices to get the best results with your kids: make sure they're well-rested (don't plan big, wearing activities on the days leading up to the shoot), well-fed, and that they know they'll be rewarded for good behavior. Definitely plan around nap times! 
  
  
• It sounds trite, but it really is important: have fun! We'll be there to enjoy it with you, so meet us with a good spirit. Give John some good outtake material! Try to crack him up behind the camera or have some stories to share! 
  Why? Because not only will the process be that much more enjoyable and memorable, but, importantly, because then your true soul will shine through the pictures and he'll catch you at your best! 

{Curious about the photoshoot of the little girl, above? See the finished product on John's portraiture page. }

{And if you can see yourself giving a portrait as a gift this Christmas, don't wait too long! The lead time from scheduling a sitting to receiving a finished painting is a matter of months!}

Usually we hear from parents who are interested in having a portrait of their child or children. I'm curious: if you could commission one portrait painting of someone in your life, who would you want it to be? Can you imagine where it would hang? 
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