Michael O’Neill McGrath currently resides in Washington D.C., and is a brother of the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales.  He is the author and illustrator of “Journey with Therese of Lisieux: Celebrating the Artist in Us All,” as well as “Patrons and Protectors,” a three-part series of books on the saints.  He has been the recipient of awards from the Catholic Press Association for his covers of America magazine, and his work appears regularly in the publications of today’s leading Catholic and Christian publishers.  Mickey is also a widely respected speaker and retreat director at parishes and retreat centers throughout the United States.

The paintings in this exhibit are also book illustrations.  The book consists of twenty-one full-page representations of Mary accompanied by poems and prayers from the pen of Richard N. Fragomeni.  Bringing painter and poet together  World Library Publications (WLP, Franklin Park, IL) created a nice coffee table book inviting artistic delight and spiritual joy.  the paintings are a feast of colors and Mary, albeit couched in iconographical patterns of classical Marian titles, evokes a  refreshing portrait of cultural variety and genuine spirituality.  Here is how the painter ordered and labeled his renderings of Mary:

"The Exhibit is divided into four sections to illuminate some recurring themes found in the litanies.  These themes mark elements of our own life journeys as well.  The titles in the Chapter named "Mother" remind us of our hearts' continual longing for nurturing love and the desire to create.  These show us the Mary of Bethlehem and Calvary.  The images in the section designated "Lady" refer to the gracious Mary who is a devoted handmaid and grace-filled servant, the Mary of Nazareth at the Annunciation and Visitation.  The "Mystic" group celebrates a more contemplative Mary who exposes us to our own inner potentials and possibilities.  She is the Mary of the Presentation, who holds the mysteries of God in her heart.  And finally, "Queen" is the title of her ultimate fulfillment as protector of all hearts that long for the love of God.  As queen, she is the Mary of Pentecost and the Assumption."

The paintings are "painted prayers."  They are inspired by the Litany of Loreto, the Song of Songs and the Akathist Hymn.  The series gives ample space to African  American and Latin-American interpretations of Our Lady.  Here is the artist's ardent wish addressed to his "readers:"

"May the colors stimulate you and the words inspire you.  And may Mary, who is mother, Lady, Mystic, and Queen, visit you and find a home in your heart.  Blessed is she among women.  And blessed, it is safe to assume, are we."