Painting Faith into the Walls: The Saint Mark Church and School Murals

Saint Mark School and Church- 2475 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Earlier this year, I had the immense honor of being chosen as the official artist for a mural series at Saint Mark Church and School in Venice, California. What began as a call from Deacon Charlie turned into a months-long journey of faith, creativity, and deep historical research—one that challenged me as an artist and moved me deeply as a human being.

When I was first approached, the church’s vision was clear: they wanted to create a landmark—something not only beautiful, but also meaningful and lasting. A way to honor the lives and legacies of four remarkable saints: Blessed Miguel Pro, Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, Saint Candidus, and Saint Mark.

Before I was officially awarded the commission, I was asked to create a design proposal. I spent weeks immersed in research, determined to understand each saint not just historically, but spiritually. I didn’t want to just depict them—I wanted to honor them, to portray them as they might wish to be seen.

From Left to right: Saint Miguel Pro, Saint Marie-Rose Durocher, Saint Candidus

With Saint Miguel Pro, I watched a documentary and read stories about his courage during religious persecution in Mexico. His disguises, his underground ministry, and ultimately his execution left a deep impression on me. I chose to paint him in his final moments, crying out “¡Viva Cristo Rey!” as a testament to his fearless devotion.

Saint Marie-Rose Durocher, a champion for girls' education, struck me as a quiet revolutionary. Despite her failing health, she opened the doors of learning to so many. I painted her as if she were still with us—still teaching, still nurturing minds and hearts.

Saint Candidus was the most mysterious. With little visual reference to work from, I turned to history books, Roman soldier attire, and the culture of Upper Egypt. I constructed his image from the ground up—giving him a red cloak symbolizing readiness and humility. To me, he became a guardian figure, almost like a saintly superhero.

Saint Mark Mosaic Mural

The fourth mural, a mosaic-style portrait of Saint Mark on the exterior wall facing Lincoln Blvd, was inspired by a sixth-century tablet that also informed the church’s logo. I created the piece using only spray paint, mimicking the intricate feel of mosaic tile. The process was challenging, but I leaned on faith and intuition to guide me.

I began the murals in December, planning a 6–8 week timeline. But nature had other plans. Unprecedented rainstorms and wildfires in Los Angeles delayed the project. There were days I showed up to paint, only to be caught in a downpour. Paint doesn’t stick to a wet wall, so I had to wait—and pray—for better conditions.

Through it all, my husband Alexandre was my rock. We tackled the prep work together—sanding, priming, and lifting day after day to get the walls ready for paint. Having his help meant I didn’t have to shoulder it all alone. I’m also incredibly grateful to Parish Manager Michael Manzella, who not only supported us throughout the process but jumped in hands-on—power washing the walls himself and even building a custom wooden ramp by hand so we could maneuver the lift to reach some difficult sections. His thoughtfulness and dedication truly meant a lot during those long, often hot days on site.

Saint Mark Church and School -mural dedication and unveiling on Sunday, June 8th 2025

On June 8th, Saint Mark Church hosted a heartfelt ceremony to unveil and bless the new murals I created for their campus. The evening began with opening remarks from Deacon Charlie and Father Albert, who welcomed the community, acknowledged special guests and sponsors, and shared the vision behind the mural project and the parish’s growing commitment to arts and media. I was honored to be recognized during the program and to share my creative process—from the initial research into the lives of the saints to the weeks of hands-on work that brought the murals to life. Father Albert and I took a moment to thank the many volunteers, donors, and supporters who made the project possible. One of the most meaningful parts of the evening was the ribbon-cutting, led by Bishop Elshoff, followed by a special blessing of the building. It was a beautiful gathering of community, faith, and art—one I’ll always treasure.

Painting outdoors, especially in a public space like this, invites community. People stopped to ask what I was painting. Some thought I was tagging the building at first, but once they saw the murals take shape, they came back to express how proud they were to witness the transformation. Others yelled from their cars as they drove by, cheering or asking questions. Eventually, I made a sign with a QR code so people could learn more without interrupting—but I often chatted with them anyway.

The schoolchildren were some of my favorite visitors. They would come by with their teacher, eyes wide with curiosity, asking questions about the saints or even for my autograph. Their joy reminded me of why I do this work—to inspire, to educate, and to connect.

In the end, this project became so much more than paint on walls. It became a labor of love, a public act of devotion, and a way to uplift not just a building, but an entire community.

I hope the murals serve as a lasting tribute—to the saints, to the school, and to everyone who stops to look up and feel something stir inside them.

Thank you, Saint Mark Church and School, for trusting me with your vision. I’ll carry this experience with me always.