Exploring the Artistic Vocation of Fr. William Hart McNichols: Conversations with Christopher Pramuk
Renowned iconographer and priest, Father William Hart McNichols, is set to release a new book that delves into his life and art, showcasing his journey as an artist, priest, and hospice minister. The book, titled “All My Eyes See: The Artistic Vocation of Fr. William Hart McNichols,” is divided into three parts and features conversations with theologian Christopher Pramuk of Regis University in Denver.
Father McNichols’ early sense of loneliness and feeling set apart for a purpose is explored in the first two parts of the book, highlighting his emergence as an artist and his work as a hospice minister to men dying from H.I.V./AIDS in Manhattan during the 1980s. The last part of the book focuses on his move to New Mexico and his apprenticeship with Franciscan brother Robert Lentz, which paved the way for him to become one of the most renowned iconographers of our time.
Throughout the book, Father McNichols discusses the diverse range of subjects that have influenced his art, from musical artists like Joni Mitchell and k.d. lang to spiritual figures like Francis of Assisi, Padre Pio, and Adrienne von Speyr. He shares insights into his creative process and the deep spiritual connections he has forged through his work.
One of the key figures explored in the book is Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman, a Franciscan Sister of Perpetual Adoration who played a significant role in the Black Catholic church. Father McNichols spent nearly a year researching Sister Thea’s life and praying with her as he wrote her icon, capturing her vibrant spirit and profound impact on the church.
The book also delves into Father McNichols’ personal experiences, including a near-death encounter in 2012 that shaped his perspective on life and death. Through his art, he seeks to convey the mysterious passage through death and the palpable presence of the dead, drawing on his own spiritual journey and contemplative practices.
“All My Eyes See” promises to be a captivating exploration of Father William Hart McNichols’ artistic vocation and the profound spiritual insights that have shaped his work. The book offers a unique glimpse into the mind and heart of a celebrated iconographer, inviting readers to contemplate the beauty and mystery of his art.