The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth received a new portrait of Mother Catherine Spalding, the congregation’s foundress, in late March.
Artist Bob Connell created the portrait, which depicts Mother Catherine in her ministry of caring for children. He donated the portrait to the sisters in honor of their bicentennial, a press release from the sisters said.
A photograph of Mother Catherine, the only one known to exist, served as a guide for Connell, in addition to extensive research, the release said.
Connell has exhibited works nationally and internationally including in an exhibit sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution. He has worked extensively in oils, creating portraits in the 19th century American Impressionist style. He also loaned a series of portraits to the sisters for a 10-day exhibit in the Nazareth art gallery.
