In the New Testament, John 1:1 begins with the poetic statement "in the beginning was the Word..."  Actually I take some exception with the author because it seems to me that mankind probably started communicating with grunts, followed by a lot of pointing, then pictures drawn with sticks on the ground then onto the walls of caves with charcoal. Words came much later.

But, I yield to the authority of St. John and the impression that words (whether inspired by God or spewed forth by man) are important!

One instructional technique used by the early Roman church for christian instruction required listening to lessons taught in Latin.  Only a few in northern Europe could understand. Most everyone would sit in church and observe images found in carved statues, stained glass windows or icons on pictures. Only when common people began to read in their own language was a movement ignited intent on reforming the church.

Another blog is being published today by the Moravian Church. The art supplementing this blog is a very VERY simple sketch, meant to illustrate the beginning of the reformation by reading to the children.

I had planned to refine this sketch with much more detail. But those who saw it and heard my description say "don't you dare!" They argue the scene, obviously not yet fully formed, perfectly describes the intent of the moment and the beginning of the reformation."  Perhaps you agree.

I've been invited to exhibit my art at two different venues.  

Beginning March 5, 3 pieces will be exhibited at Art Station - Big Shanty (in Kennesaw) for one month.
Beginning March 7, 2 pieces will be exhibited at The Art House in Acworth, remaining until April 28.  

As a bonus, my note cards illustrating 5 scenes for Kennesaw's Smith-Gilbert Gardens which will be displayed and offered for sale at a reduced price.

So let me share two pen and ink drawings which will be exhibited and, hopefully, will summon dry weather and spring flowers.  

This drawing  represents "the Chalice".

Of all the misrepresentations that the Catholic Church offered to disenfranchised Christians of the 14th Century, the act of withholding the sacrament of wine during Holy Communion seemed a most blatant abuse to the believer.  Catholic champions for reform presented issues to argue the point.  But when Father Jan Hus was executed for heresy, the Church of Rome realized they had made a major miscalculation in Bohemia. Popularity of Hus, the rise of nationalism and independent spirit among Slavic people had to be addressed, with force.

Bohemian christians who followed Hus went to war against christians who followed the Pope. They called themselves Hussites.  On their battle flag was the image of the chalice. 

This image is posted is a reminder to those who might be interested. My first blog and related art work is published today, February 9.  It represents an imaginary conversation with Jan Hus. The next publication is scheduled for publication February 29.  I will post on my website a similar reminder for that and subsequent publications throughout the year.  

To those of you who take the time to look at these, I hope they bring you insight and enjoyment.  I welcome your questions.

Bill