Here are a few representative events for members and others interested in the arts.

It has been said, "The world is the most beautiful book, and those who do not travel read only one page." The Fra Angelico Art Foundation organized a twelve day escorted artistic tour to southern Italy, May 7-18, 2001. The trip was limited to 25 participants, so individual attention could be given to all.

A Stress Buster Workshop was held in September 2003 under the direction of Rhonda Day-Kooy who introduced aromatherapy and sacred breath work for relaxation and stress reduction.

Scenes from the aromatherapy being offered to the audience.

The month of October was exciting for all who said, "yes" and joined the three day retreat. "Sacred Spaces: A Meditative Art Retreat" was led by spiritual artist and foundation member, Lynn Kilbride. This Christian retreat was an interactive, meditative experience intended to help explore one's connection to God through an artist's work and to extend what had been learned to create a sacred space at home. This was a time to pause, reflect and interact with inspiriting art pieces. People helped christen the new space.

Two of Lynn Kilbride's artworks used for the Art Retreat.

Fra Angelico Art Foundation sponsors writing contest

Narrative with Red Fruit by Connie Kassal

Faith, Hope and Charity by Connie Kassal

Narrative with Boat by Connie Kassal

Three original paintings by Indiana Artist, Connie Kassal, two-time winner of Fra Angelico Art Foundation's annual art competition adorn the walls of the foundation's new location at 30 East Avenue, Riverside, Illinois.

These paintings can be interpreted in so many different ways. It is for this reason that Fra Angelico Art Foundation will promote a writing contest. One of Connie Kassal's three original paintings must be the subject and used as inspiration for verse or prose.

The contest consists of three age categories:
    ~> ages 12-17 years
    ~> ages 18-44 years
    ~> ages 45 years to senior citizens 65 years and over.
Each category award will be a monetary prize of $50.00 for first place, $40.00 for second place, and $25.00 for third place. A print of Fr. Angelico Zarlenga's Canticle of Creatures will be awarded to individuals receiving honorary mention in each category.

The contest is now underway with deadline for submission on January 25, 2004. Printed rules for the contest may be picked up at the foundation or download the rules here ~> Writing Contest Rules.

For more information, call or visit the foundation and, of course, stop in to view these inspirational paintings.

Entries should be sent to:
Writing Contest
Fra Angelico Art Foundation
30 East Avenue
Riverside, IL 60456

The Foundation's Open House began on November 7, 2003, with a special exhibit by artist, Reynaldo Alaniz. The exhibit will end November 19. Fra Angelico Art Foundation invited Reynaldo to show his sculptures and some of his oil paintings. Marble, bronze and stone are among the media used for his original sculptures.