Brehm Center

On June 4, 2008, John August Swanson, a renowned local artist, visited the Theology, Worship, and Art class to speak about his art and his journey as an artist. Swanson brought examples of his work to share with the class, including a breathtaking serigraph of “The Procession”, which was originally an acrylic painting that Swanson created over a period of 14 months in 1980-81. The original painting now resides in the Vatican Museums. All in attendance were amazed by the vibrancy of Swanson’s images and the intricate details within each of his works. The professor of the class, William Dyrness, had the following to say about the artist: “John August Swanson has become one of the most recognizable and accomplished contemporary artists working within the Catholic tradition.  While his work can be found in the collections of the Tate Museum in London, Vatican Museum in Rome and the Smithsonian in Washington, John remains a humble worker deeply concerned not only about his art, but also for the well-being of the people he represents. John is drawn to the plight of the common worker, the overlooked participants in biblical stories, and, especially, the jesters and fools of this world, whom God has chosen to confound the wise.  One comes away from an encounter with John’s work, as with the artist, with a deeper sense of the joy and wonder of God’s presence among his people.”

To learn more visit: http://www.johnaugustswanson.com/

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