Religious Icons have been controversial from there inception. Though paintings representing Jesus, his Mother, and departed Saints have been used since the dawn of Christendom to inspire awe, worship, and prayer; they have also been the target of church friction and even severance. Because of such controversies over religious art so many contemporary churches walls lay bare and the the beauty of the icons are silenced.  The new paintings of local artist, Chris Bohatyritz uses abstract imagery to walk the delicate line that is needed to generate new perspective on such ancient controversies. In his series “We are all saints” his abstractions, are set up in a portraiture format and through bold strokes of oozing and undulating shocks of color he allows spaçe for viewers to unload all of their religious baggage. His work speaks in a refreshing and unencumbered way of the great mysteries of faith. These paintings are on view currently at the Monarch Gallery (3829 Main Street). Closing reception and auction will be held Friday, June 22nd, from 6-8 pm. 

Friday, June 22nd, from 6-8 pm, eight of these paintings will be on auction at a starting price as low as $175.00. The artist generously wants to allow people who normally could not acquire his paintings a chance of owning one of these beautiful works of art.