DCYC

Sanctus Mural Panels [Painting and Explanation]

Cristóbal Almanza

January 28, 2017

In January 2016, I debuted a large 48×48 painting that was enlarged to 16×16′ for the Mass setting of the Austin DCYC (Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference) held in Waco, Texas with almost 3,000 people in attendance.

Official Image from Austin DCYC

This December, I also spent time finishing the 12×48″ side panels to be enlarged for the side panels of the stage. This process was much less intensive in nature because much of the theme and characters were already set. This extension was part of the original plan, but my schedule didn’t allow me to finish it in time for the 2016 Conference. This panel was entirely focused on expanding the city visuals, the flowing fountain of blood and water with the choirs of angels.

A year apart, I am excited to finish this large piece. Adding 36 more characters to the 2 panels joining the large center piece. Many exciting things to share soon. #Catholic #art
A photo posted by Cristóbal Almanza (@soulpainter) on Jan 8, 2017 at 8:55pm PST

Sanctus 3 Panel Mural

The collective visual can be somewhat overwhelming at first, and this is intentional. My hope is that it shows the grandeur of the spiritual realities occurring in the Holy Mass. I hope that it inspires feelings of wonder at the sanctity of the Sacraments.

Wrapped up another great #atxdcyc in Waco this weekend. Spent the weekend sharing and educating about Sacred Art. The panels I finished in December were added this year. It always surprises me how big it is. #Catholic #art
A photo posted by Cristóbal Almanza (@soulpainter) on Jan 29, 2017 at 11:35am PST

The panels have more symmetry than the central piece with a mirrored approach to the top and bottom. This helps direct more of the attention to the center at the sacrifice of Christ. You can see the original layout sketches repeat various angels. One of the other elements borrowed from the Beuronese style is the priestly vestments used by the angels.

This key helps explain the various characters and elements happening in the 3 panels of the mural. For more background on the planning of the mural, see my posts from last year about the Sanctus Mural.