This original work of sacred art was painted in acrylic on fine wood panel with gold leaf accents and measures 3 feet by 4 1/2 feet. It was commissioned by Fr. Brian Phillips, pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Grange, Texas. The work depicts in traditional detail, the vision of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, wherein Christ explained the immense love he has for humanity, appearing with his heart visible outside his chest, on fire, and surrounded by a crown of thorns. In this work, the artist employed a pseudo-iconographic style, presenting Christ illuminated by Divine Light, stylized garments, and yet slightly more naturalist facial features, depicting the tender love of Christ, poured out. Following the traditional techniques of sacred iconography, the image is “written” in thin layers of glaze from dark to light and features a 24K gold background.
Sacred Heart of Jesus, by Ruth Stricklin, © 2023 New Jerusalem Studios, LLC.
