History painting, the depiction of historical events, has long been held in the highest regard among artists and patrons in the tradition of western art. From Medieval altarpieces to Michelangelo to Rembrandt and from tender, quiet nativity scenes to pictures of fierce military conflict, the painting of dramatic moments
in history has held a central, exalted place
in European and early American art.
With the rise of Modernism, however, the painting
of historical scenes was deemed old and stale. It was assumed that people weren't interested in such
things any longer and the genre fell into neglect.
-
Several years ago I began a number of projects almost as
a dare to myself. I wanted to see if people were, indeed, still interested in the "old and stale" historical subjects. The first was "David and Goliath." Commissions followed, some of which you can see here.
Perhaps the one I am most fond of is the painting that hangs in St Philips Church here in Charleston. Not only were the rector and vestry of the church enthusiastically involved in the project, but the painting was
very warmly received by the congregation.
I consider the hanging of the painting one of the highlights of my career. Scroll through the gallery for pictures of the hanging.
Click to enlarge