Post by Megan V.

Mark Sassani from Saint Joseph's Fine Art Studio (in Mt. Carmel, PA) created an oil painting of a religious saint for the Saint Pauline Visintainer Society. He has a few art pieces housed at the center, and this is his newest edition. The oil painting by Mark Sassani is titled Saint Gemma's Passion and Easter Morning (2021). It includes traces of religious iconography especially in his use of color symbolism, saintly gestures, and holy items displayed within the painting. Thus, he was able to capture a general life story of St. Gemma Galgani (her suffering and victory over evil/death) within a single painting! Mark, with God's grace, was able to turn a black and white image into a colorful, relatable representation of an early 19th century saint with the help of prayer and paying attention to written descriptions of Saint Gemma's physical attributes. A lot of specific detail was given to Mark throughout the process. He took direction very well while also adding his own feedback/experience on religious iconography. Also, the amount of time he put into the work, on a daily basis, was very thoughtful while getting the painting done sooner than anticipated! His other paintings, which he has shown me throughout the years, are beautiful! Mark is very versatile with his art styles and personable; has a bunch of interesting stories! Overall, this area is blessed to have his talent, and I highly recommend Mark for future projects! #artwork #experience #future #talent #inspiration #fineart #painting #love #art