St. Gertrude of Helfta

This icon was created specifically for a patron and was personalized by adding trees and a goat along with a quote by St. Gertrude with special significance. Since there are very few images of St. Gertrude and no famous Byzantine images, I got to design this one myself. Also, the designs on the top corners of the icon were carved by Frances Dondelinger, my mother. She used a design from the railing at the Monastery of St. Gertrude in central Idaho.


St. Gertrude of Helfta, 17.5 x 24”, Egg tempera, 24 carat gold on a solid wood panel. By the hand of MF Dondelinger. In a private collection.  Sold

Mystical Contemplation

The Man and Woman of Sorrows, 17” x 23.5”,

Egg tempera and 22 carat gold on ¾” solid wood panel.

By the hand of MF Dondelinger.

Sold

This is one of the most tender images in traditional iconography. Christ, dead, is being held by Mary as he is in a sarcophagus. While most orthodox icons focus on the divinity in the saints and holy family, this icon seems to also capture, in the most intimate manner, the humanness of the mother and son.

“The Man of Sorrows in its many artistic forms is the most precise visual expression of the piety of the later Middle Ages, which took its character from mystical contemplation rather than from theological speculation".1

1. G Schiller, Iconography of Christian Art, Vol. II,1972 (English trans from German), Lund Humphries, London, pp.197-229, quote from p.198

Awarded

Mary Frances was awarded the Theo Van Gogh award by Gallery One in Ellensburg, Washington, for her past work as Director of the community non-profit visual arts center.



The award, a mixed media piece by Louise Lamontagne, is shown here all boxed up and reay to fly home with Mary Frances.

The award was given at the annual President's Dinner. Below, attendees of the event were gracious enough to fulfill one more request by the recipient so she could visualize what she has always felt about the people of Ellensburg. She asked each person to reach forward and backwards to their neighbors symbolizing the deep connection the people of Ellensburg embody but especially the supporters of the arts at Gallery One.

Top photo: Current Gallery One director Robert Tomlinson strikes a pose with Mary Frances. Photo by Louise Lamontagne.

Above: Photo by David Dick

Protector of Art

Legend has it that St. Theodosia died of grievous injuries when tortured for trying to protect an icon in her monastery from the iconoclasts. She has thus been named as a patron saint of art. With such an intense face and formidable stance she doesn't seem like someone easy to deny!

St. Theodosia, 16” x 12” Egg tempera and 24 carat gold on 1” cradled Claybord. Detail of St. Theodosia while in progress.
By the hand of MF Dondelinger
If you’re interested in purchasing this image please contact me.

Bearer of Good News

I think Archangel Garbriel is one of the most beautiful images of traditional icons.

He is considered the patron saint of broadcasters, postal workers, ambassadors, newsvendors, and couriers.


Archangel Gabriel, 11” x 6” Egg Tempera and 24 carat gold on ¾” solid wood panel.
By the hand of MF Dondelinger.
If you’re interested in purchasing this image, contact me.

Lamb of Courage

Typically the Lamb of God is white to reflect purity. However, in this image the Lamb is black. A black sheep. Christ stood out because he was different. He bucked the system. And then he led a revolution. To step out, to lead a revolution, to know you might be killed for speaking your truth, for challenging the power….that takes more than purity. That takes courage.

Lamb of Courage, 8.5" x 4.75”, Egg tempera and 22 carat gold on ¾” solid wood panel. By the hand of MF Dondelinger

Sold

Study This...

Michael, 12” x 10”, graphite on Dura-lar. By MF Dondelinger. If you’re interested in purchasing this image email me.

Another study of the Greek god Pan. I use this model often as reference in my work. He has been asked to do many things in the name of art. Thank goodness I can use my imagination instead of making him wear horns and grow a goatee. Besides, he’s my oldest brother. He's bigger and stronger than me and I can’t actually make him do anything!

Face to Face

Gallery One in Ellensburg, Washington, will be featuring a portrait show titled 40 Portraits, 40 Artists. This invitational exhibition will mark the start of the 40th anniversary for the visual arts center. Zena, a beautiful young woman from Ellensburg, was the inspiration behind the portrait I sent for the exhibition.

Getting Ready, 24” x 36”, Egg Tempera on Claybord Panel, by MF Dondelinger
If you’re interested in this image please contact Gallery One by email or by phone at 509.925.2670. The show runs January 15 – March 1, 2008.

The Attraction Factor

The Florence Biennale, held in Italy on December 1-9, 2007, was filled with people from all over the globe. One of the most interesting things was watching how many people wanted their picture taken standing next to my painting. I was flabbergasted. This couple, originally from South Korea, videotaped the experience. Over 800 artists participated in the Biennale and 18,000 visitors attended the 9 day event. I was fortunate to be able to attend and it would not have been possible without the support of my sponsors. Thank you to my two Quiet supporters and Ampersand Art Supply. http://www.ampersandart.com/