Ann Chapin and Holy Inspiration
Three years ago, I visited the Holy Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers. It was Father Luke's 102nd birthday, and I was lucky enough to be invited to chronicle the day's events. I saw where the monks lived and ate, where they slept and where they were quiet. I realized how lucky I was to see behind the walls which visitors rarely experience. Such joyful men. Below is one of the photographs I took during my visit. It spoke to the determination and courage of men who came from Kentucky with a purpose of building a new home in Georgia.
In February, 2016, I received an email from Ann Chapin. I did not know her. She did not know me, but she had seen this photo in one of my articles that I wrote on the monastery. She explained that she was painting a series from all the monasteries in the country and wanted to use this photo as a reference - the one with the work clothes, hats and shoes.
Totally taken aback, I was humbled by her request. After all, as a writer and photographer, inspire is what we hope we accomplish.
Over the course of two months, she sent me updates of her work in progress. Each time, I became more and more impressed with Ann, her mission and her talent.
On March 31,2016, she finished the oil on canvas. She explains how she saturated the image, "giving it a more Sargent feel to the cloth." I invite you to visit Ann's website and see more of her work.
Expect the unexpected these days. You never know when you'll be the inspiration to another. Congratulations Ann.
Totally taken aback, I was humbled by her request. After all, as a writer and photographer, inspire is what we hope we accomplish.
Over the course of two months, she sent me updates of her work in progress. Each time, I became more and more impressed with Ann, her mission and her talent.
On March 31,2016, she finished the oil on canvas. She explains how she saturated the image, "giving it a more Sargent feel to the cloth." I invite you to visit Ann's website and see more of her work.
Expect the unexpected these days. You never know when you'll be the inspiration to another. Congratulations Ann.
