Readers familiar with the religious art that has adorned Catholic cathedrals and churches for the better part of two millennia are no doubt struck by its general absence in churches built in this country since Vatican II. In recent decades, this regrettable deficiency has not gone unnoticed by the Vatican.
For instance, to encourage the creation of such art, Saint Pope John Paul II – a great promoter of the arts – wrote that Christian art functions as a “cryptogram of mystery” in that it captures the transcendent dimension of truth and goodness and helps individuals connect with the infinite. What’s more, in its 2006 Plenary Assembly, in response to the prevalence of religious indifference, the Pontifical Council for Culture chose as its theme ‘via pulchritudinis’ (the way of Beauty). Those who appreciate the power of Beauty, whether in liturgy, music, or art, will be encouraged to learn about the remarkable Mr. Neilson Carlin.
Chester County in Southeastern Pennsylvania is famous for its Brandywine Tradition of Art. Mr. Carlin is a successful disciple of that style. More to the point, he is a disciple of our Lord. As his website states:
Instructor Neilson Carlin is a professional artist with 28 years of experience as a teacher and painter. He has worked in both the commercial and fine art markets, and taught extensively through both his school and workshops and demonstrations in institutions around the Philadelphia area…After years of working in both the commercial and gallery art markets, a conversion to Catholicism prompted Neilson to commit his talents and career to serving the Catholic Church. He now specializes in large-scale sacred and devotional art for new and renovated parishes. His clients include parishes and shrines across the country.
If his name rings a bell, it is probably because you attended the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia, attended by Pope Francis. Mr. Carlin was the artist selected to paint the official iconic portrait of the Holy Family in celebration of that event.
While creating masterpieces for religious venues across the country, Mr. Carlin continues to teach art. His studio is located in the charming town of Kennett Square in Chester Country. Information can be found at CarlinAcademy.com.
As our nation celebrates the sesquicentennial of its birth, Catholics – indeed all who value the transcendental power of Beauty – should be grateful for the rebirth of sacred art for which Neilson Carlin is so largely and impressively responsible.
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