Conrad Schmitt Studios, based out of Wisconsin, recently shared news of a beautiful project they undertook at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Hays, Kansas that effectively functions as both a "before and after" as well as a tutorial on something we like to discuss here from time to time: the power of colour and ornament in liturgical architecture. In this particular case, one will note here that, architecturally speaking, and in terms of the general liturgical ordering of the church, it remains effectively the same. What has changed, however, is that pattern and ornament has been added to both accentuate the architecture and give it a greater sense of liturgical focus -- especially as it relates to the altar.
Conrad Schmitt offer their own commentary on the project:
After years of dedication and generosity from its parishioners, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church has unveiled its breathtaking interior. Designers from Conrad Schmitt Studios sought to enhance worshippers' experience in this renewed, 25,000-square-foot facility. Adorned with murals and intricate decor, the design celebrates the life and virtues of St. Mary, the church's Patroness, emphasizing her role as the conduit between mortal and divine. A celestial mural depicts Mary crushing the serpent, as the Book of Genesis prophesizes. She is surrounded by a mandorla, the Queen of Heaven's twelve stars, and rays symbolizing the Seven Sorrows.Inspired by St. Michael's in Hildesheim, Germany, the nave ceiling features celestial stars, Marian feast murals, and rosary-inspired patterns. The Baptistry area highlights a radiant Holy Spirit medallion, with the descending Dove, and panel designs reminiscent of those in the nave.Winged Seraphim represent the Four Evangelists, underscoring the sanctity of Baptism. This stunning space invites all into a heavenly atmosphere of artistry and devotion, bringing liturgical elements to life and celebrating Mary's divine virtues.
But before we get into what Conrad Schmitt did, let's first begin by looking at what the state of the church was before their intervention.
BEFORE:
As you can see, the parish has some Romanesque like qualities, what with its semi-circular apse and its boxy shape for the nave. However, the church was rather plain. The apse was painted a simple blue. Similarly the space which the tabernacle inhabits was similarly coloured and lit -- in a manner that is arguably distracting. As for the rest of the space, it was a 'feast' of flat, non-descript, uninspiring beige.
Still, with all that, the architectural bones were there for much greater potential, which Conrad Schmitt certainly took advantage of.
AFTER:
Suffice it to say, the church has been radically transformed by the use of pattern, colour and ornament,. First off, the apsidal space is now inhabited by a beautiful portrayal of the Virgin Mary, with images of the Sacred and Immaculate Hearts appearing on the triumphal arch. The crucifix is now framed by decorative stencilling, both accentuating it and also bringing it into greater harmony and unity with the architecture itself. The backdrop of the altar and tabernacle has been altered to now be a beautiful red and gold stencilled design, which now also draws your attention to the altar, rather than distracting from it. Statuary has been added and, not be to neglected, beautiful designs are now found on the ceiling, especially those over the nave.
Some details of these different elements for your consideration.
 |
| The apsidal fresco of the Virgin Mary |
 |
| A view from the sanctuary toward the nave, showcasing some of the designs that have also been added here. |
 |
| A better view of the main ceiling designs which also include various Marian depictions within medallions. |
 |
| Detail from one of the ceiling medallions |
 |
| A statue of the Sacred Heart. Take note of the stencilled design behind. |
 |
| Detail showing the tabernacle and the accompanying stencil work behind which features peacocks and grape clusters |
-------
Do you like Liturgical Arts Journal's original content? You can help support LAJ in its mission and vision to promote beauty in Catholic worship either by:
You choose the amount! Your support makes all the difference.
