The project in question did not involve elaborate architectural re-orderings, but simply the addition of colour and symbol by means of a mural that fills the white space found above the marble revetments on the sanctuary wall. But before we get into that, that's let's a closer look at the before state.
BEFORE:
The church certainly had a good foundation from which to build and turning our attention now to the after, Conrad Schmitt Studios offers the following commentary about what they did and its intended symbolism:
Inspired by Saint John the Apostle's revelation when the last of the seven seals are opened, two divine angelic murals frame the sanctuary of St. Monica Catholic Church in Whitefish Bay, WI. The angels are seated on the clouds and can be seen swinging golden censers with intricate detail. Together with the altar below, their posture reenacts the biblical scene of the angels kneeling before God to offer incense and the prayers of all God's people. The Lamb of God with the seven seals is fixed between them.
One will also see that a central medallion of the Lamb of God sits in the apex of the mural, completing the symbolism.
Evidently the symbolism added here is both liturgically rich and symbolically appropriate with its connotations of sacrifice and worship. Secondarily, I'd note as well that the framing that was done around the three components of the mural has also had the effect of better integrating the sanctuary wall with the roof trussing, creating a more harmonious, integrated whole.
A really fine project showing that even just small additions can have an impact.
For more information, please visit Conrad Schmitt on social media or see their website.
