The Abbey Art Collection
Seek Things Above

Providing a window into the art world of Mount Angel Abbey.

Fall 2020 Virtual Exhibit: Louisa Jenkins and Friends: Sacred Mosaic Arts

What you will find here and why

The historical beginnings of mosaic art are seemingly lost to us. The oldest known examples of this workmanship are in the Near East and date from about 1300 BC. The Roman Era saw popular mosaic arts employed extensively throughout the empire for state and private use. In the Christian era, the art flourished from the fourth to the fifteenth century in the Eastern and Western Church. Ironically, a decline ensued partly because of improved technology. As glass tiles became available in many colors, temptation to copy the ancient works also increased. When imitation of the masters became acceptable, the need for creativity in the medium diminished, though many masterpieces continued to be made, especially for the Church. In the second half of the 19th and first half of the 20th centuries, the Western Church experienced a revival in all the principal art forms, observed in such movements as the Benedictine School of Art at the Abbey of Beuron, Germany. This revival of the arts shows up in a number of Mount Angel Abbey’s treasured art works, notably those by Jean Lambert-Rucki, Isabel and Edith Piczek, and, of course, the mosaics of Louisa Jenkins, all with mid-century influences. It was here in the 1950’s that William Justema, artist-in-residence at Mount Angel Abbey at the time, suggested Louisa Jenkins of Big Sur for a commission to create a set of mosaic Stations of the Cross for the newly completed Saint Joseph Chapel. After the dedication of the Stations on July 19, 1953, the monks established Angelico Mosaics at the Abbey. The rest is history!

The virtual exhibit was displayed October 1, 2020 through January 4, 2021

“Jesus Meets His Mother, Station IV”
24" x 24" Mosaic, by Louisa Jenkins, 1953.

The mosaic is composed of natural, hand-cut stone, colored glass, and other materials. Unique to this series of stations is the black road meandering through each scene. According to Louisa Jenkins, it represents the road ascending the hill on which Mount Angel Abbey is built, as well as the path of life for Christ and all Christians. - Located in the St. Joseph Chapel, Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary.

Louisa Meyer Jenkins (1898-1989), an artist from Big Sur, California, was known for her magnificent sacred mosaic art, including an angel-covered baldaquin and a Madonna with a Rosary for St. Ann’s Chapel in Palo Alto, California, and Stations of the Cross for Mount Angel Abbey, St. Joseph Chapel, in St. Benedict, Oregon. Her work, clearly influenced by Picasso and other modern artists, was typical of mosaic artists of the time, “moving into abstract designs… many influenced by biomorphic Surrealism.” The 4th station, shown in this exhibit, by Louisa Jenkins was featured in the January 25, 1954 Time Magazine article titled: New Religious Art in the U.S. Churches. Photographed by Fred Hartson.
“Jesus Meets His Mother, Station IV”
24" x 24" Mosaic, by Louisa Jenkins, 1953.

The mosaic is composed of natural, hand-cut stone, colored glass, and other materials. Unique to this series of stations is the black road meandering through each scene. According to Louisa Jenkins, it represents the road ascending the hill on which Mount Angel Abbey is built, as well as the path of life for Christ and all Christians. - Located in the St. Joseph Chapel, Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary.

Louisa Meyer Jenkins (1898-1989), an artist from Big Sur, California, was known for her magnificent sacred mosaic art, including an angel-covered baldaquin and a Madonna with a Rosary for St. Ann’s Chapel in Palo Alto, California, and Stations of the Cross for Mount Angel Abbey, St. Joseph Chapel, in St. Benedict, Oregon. Her work, clearly influenced by Picasso and other modern artists, was typical of mosaic artists of the time, “moving into abstract designs… many influenced by biomorphic Surrealism.” The 4th station, shown in this exhibit, by Louisa Jenkins was featured in the January 25, 1954 Time Magazine article titled: New Religious Art in the U.S. Churches. Photographed by Fred Hartson.
“Jesus Dies on the Cross, Station XII”
24" x 24" Mosaic, by Louisa Jenkins, 1953.

Mosaic composed of natural hand-cut stone, colored tile, and other materials – Located in the St. Joseph Chapel, Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary. This image was used by RCA when Mount Angel produced a long-play record of Gregorian Chants in 1958, under the direction of Dom David Nicholson, OSB.

Louisa Meyer Jenkins (1898-1989), an artist from Big Sur, California, was known for her magnificent sacred mosaic art, including an angel-covered baldaquin and a Madonna with a Rosary for St. Ann’s Chapel in Palo Alto, California, and Stations of the Cross for Mount Angel Abbey, St. Joseph Chapel, in St. Benedict, Oregon. Her work, clearly influenced by Picasso and other modern artists, was typical of mosaic artists of the time, “moving into abstract designs… many influenced by biomorphic Surrealism.” The 4th station, shown in this exhibit, by Louisa Jenkins was featured in the January 25, 1954 Time Magazine article titled: New Religious Art in the U.S. Churches. Photographed by Fred Hartson.
“Jesus Dies on the Cross, Station XII”
24" x 24" Mosaic, by Louisa Jenkins, 1953.

Mosaic composed of natural hand-cut stone, colored tile, and other materials – Located in the St. Joseph Chapel, Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary. This image was used by RCA when Mount Angel produced a long-play record of Gregorian Chants in 1958, under the direction of Dom David Nicholson, OSB.

Louisa Meyer Jenkins (1898-1989), an artist from Big Sur, California, was known for her magnificent sacred mosaic art, including an angel-covered baldaquin and a Madonna with a Rosary for St. Ann’s Chapel in Palo Alto, California, and Stations of the Cross for Mount Angel Abbey, St. Joseph Chapel, in St. Benedict, Oregon. Her work, clearly influenced by Picasso and other modern artists, was typical of mosaic artists of the time, “moving into abstract designs… many influenced by biomorphic Surrealism.” The 4th station, shown in this exhibit, by Louisa Jenkins was featured in the January 25, 1954 Time Magazine article titled: New Religious Art in the U.S. Churches. Photographed by Fred Hartson.
“Winged Lion”

30" x 40" Mosaic by Father Dennis Marx, OSB, 1958.

This mosaic depicts a winged lion, the symbol for St. Mark. The lion sports a prominent and colorful mane, reminiscent of some Middle Eastern art. The mosaic is composed of hand-cut stone, colored glass, gilded plaster, mosaic tile, and copper wire - Located in the Abbey Bookstore and Coffee Shop.

Father Dennis Marx, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey from 1942 until his death in 1982, was an accomplished pianist, organist and composer. After studies at the University of Toronto, he graduated with an MFA in music in 1946 from Columbia University. In the visual arts, he was critically influenced by his study in Istanbul, Turkey, and elsewhere in the Middle East. During the 1950’s he studied under noted mosaicist, Louisa Jenkins (1898-1989) of Big Sur, California. In the mid-1950’s, Father Dennis contributed significantly to the establishment of Angelico Mosaics at Mount Angel Abbey. At the time, many mosaic artists embraced the mid-century influences of cubism and expressionism and, among other things, began to include “found materials” in their compositions.
“Moses Descending Mount Horeb”

37" x 31" Mosaic by Father Dennis Marx, OSB, 1958.

The mosaic depicts Moses descending Mount Horeb holding his staff after receiving the Ten Commandments. The golden waves in the background may signify the presence of God, with "Horeb" sometimes translated as "Glowing Heat". The mosaic is composed of natural, hand-cut stone, colored glass, and gold painted plaster. - Located in the west entry, upper lobby level of the St. Benedict Guesthouse & Retreat Center.

Father Dennis Marx, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey from 1942 until his death in 1982, was an accomplished pianist, organist and composer. After studies at the University of Toronto, he graduated with an MFA in music in 1946 from Columbia University. In the visual arts, he was critically influenced by his study in Istanbul, Turkey, and elsewhere in the Middle East. During the 1950’s he studied under noted mosaicist, Louisa Jenkins (1898-1989) of Big Sur, California. In the mid-1950’s, Father Dennis contributed significantly to the establishment of Angelico Mosaics at Mount Angel Abbey. At the time, many mosaic artists embraced the mid-century influences of cubism and expressionism and, among other things, began to include “found materials” in their compositions.
“St. Benedict”
20" x 40" Mosaic by Abbot Joseph Wood, OSB, 1964.

Mosaic composed of natural, hand-cut stone, and colored glass. This colorful mosaic depicts a white-bearded St. Benedict surrounded by an aura of gold. The Saint sits while holding the Holy Rule in his left hand and a broken chalice in his right. The broken chalice represents a foiled attempt to poison St. Benedict. At his feet is the word "PAX", a motto of the Benedictine Order. This mosaic was given to Ascension Priory in Jerome, Idaho, an independent daughter house of Mount Angel Abbey where it is prominently displayed.

Abbot Joseph Wood, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey from his first profession on September 8, 1952, until his death on December 17, 2014. During these years he completed an MA from Fordham University in Sociology and then taught in the seminary program. Early in his monastic life Angelico Mosaics was established at Mount Angel by Father Dennis Marx, OSB, with the blessing of Abbot Damian Jentges, OSB. Father Joseph enjoyed mosaic arts and produced a number of handsome pieces during this time, including into his old age. Early on he benefited from the artistic guidance of Louisa Jenkins and Father Dennis under whose influence he developed mid-century artistic sensitivities and techniques. Many of his mosaics eventually became gifts to others.
“St. Benedict”
20" x 40" Mosaic by Abbot Joseph Wood, OSB, 1964.

Mosaic composed of natural, hand-cut stone, and colored glass. This colorful mosaic depicts a white-bearded St. Benedict surrounded by an aura of gold. The Saint sits while holding the Holy Rule in his left hand and a broken chalice in his right. The broken chalice represents a foiled attempt to poison St. Benedict. At his feet is the word "PAX", a motto of the Benedictine Order. This mosaic was given to Ascension Priory in Jerome, Idaho, an independent daughter house of Mount Angel Abbey where it is prominently displayed.

Abbot Joseph Wood, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey from his first profession on September 8, 1952, until his death on December 17, 2014. During these years he completed an MA from Fordham University in Sociology and then taught in the seminary program. Early in his monastic life Angelico Mosaics was established at Mount Angel by Father Dennis Marx, OSB, with the blessing of Abbot Damian Jentges, OSB. Father Joseph enjoyed mosaic arts and produced a number of handsome pieces during this time, including into his old age. Early on he benefited from the artistic guidance of Louisa Jenkins and Father Dennis under whose influence he developed mid-century artistic sensitivities and techniques. Many of his mosaics eventually became gifts to others.
“Wedding at Cana”

Icon design by Brother Claude Lane, OSB / 39" x 25" Mosaic by Lynne Chinn, 2009.

The mosaic depicts the biblical scene of Mary and Jesus attending a wedding feast. During the feast the host realizes the wine is running out. Mary gently intervenes with Jesus to help. The result is six stone water jars full of the best possible wine. In his halo Jesus has the Greek letters for "I AM WHO AM", and "IC XC" the Greek abbreviations for “Jesus Christ” around his headaround his head. The mosaic is composed of various colored and 24K gold smalti. - Located in Annunciation 1st floor hallway, it represents the sacrament of Matrimony.

Lynne Chinn: “For me, being an artist is not something I chose; it is who and what I am and always was. ...” Among her works are a 72” x 72” public art commission, as well as a 72” x 108” Italian smalti mosaic icon at Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon. She was also the featured cover artist and subject of an editorial for Mosaic Art Now. “Within this ancient art form, I believe in using the finest materials I can find, including 24K gold smalti, colored smalti, marble, natural stone, crystals and minerals, vitreous and stained glass, Millefiori, and shell, in conjunction with the most up-to-date installation tools, products and techniques to create modern yet enduring works of art.” – Mosaic Art Now

Brother Claude Lane, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey, is an active iconographer and has been teaching the technique for over twenty years. His goal has been to create images that reflect the theology as well as some of the canonical and stylistic traditions preserved over the centuries by the Christian East. At the same time, he strives to adapt the art to the theological and devotional traditions of the Catholic West. Brother Claude has been drawing and painting since childhood. In 1985 Abbot Bonaventure Zerr, OSB, encouraged him to learn and devote time to iconography. He studied with Canadian iconographer Michael O’Brien and, since then, has been the Abbey Iconographer and has written hundreds of icons.
“Appearance to the Disciples”

Icon design by Brother Claude Lane, OSB / 39" x 25" Mosaic by Lynne Chinn, 2010.

The image depicts the resurrected Jesus appearing to the disciples in the upper room, despite the door being locked and barred “for fear of the Jews” (cf. Jn 20:19). Their garments are blowing, symbolizing the Holy Spirit that Jesus is breathing into them on this first Pentecost. In his halo Jesus has the Greek letters for "I AM WHO AM", and "IC XC" around his head. The mosaic is composed of various colored and 24K gold smalti - Located in Annunciation 1st floor hallway, it represents the sacrament of Confirmation.

Lynne Chinn: “For me, being an artist is not something I chose; it is who and what I am and always was. ...” Among her works are a 72” x 72” public art commission, as well as a 72” x 108” Italian smalti mosaic icon at Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon. She was also the featured cover artist and subject of an editorial for Mosaic Art Now. “Within this ancient art form, I believe in using the finest materials I can find, including 24K gold smalti, colored smalti, marble, natural stone, crystals and minerals, vitreous and stained glass, Millefiori, and shell, in conjunction with the most up-to-date installation tools, products and techniques to create modern yet enduring works of art.” – Mosaic Art Now

Brother Claude Lane, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey, is an active iconographer and has been teaching the technique for over twenty years. His goal has been to create images that reflect the theology as well as some of the canonical and stylistic traditions preserved over the centuries by the Christian East. At the same time, he strives to adapt the art to the theological and devotional traditions of the Catholic West. Brother Claude has been drawing and painting since childhood. In 1985 Abbot Bonaventure Zerr, OSB, encouraged him to learn and devote time to iconography. He studied with Canadian iconographer Michael O’Brien and, since then, has been the Abbey Iconographer and has written hundreds of icons.
“Appearance to the Disciples”

Icon design by Brother Claude Lane, OSB / 39" x 25" Mosaic by Lynne Chinn, 2010.

The image depicts the resurrected Jesus appearing to the disciples in the upper room, despite the door being locked and barred “for fear of the Jews” (cf. Jn 20:19). Their garments are blowing, symbolizing the Holy Spirit that Jesus is breathing into them on this first Pentecost. In his halo Jesus has the Greek letters for "I AM WHO AM", and "IC XC" around his head. The mosaic is composed of various colored and 24K gold smalti - Located in Annunciation 1st floor hallway, it represents the sacrament of Confirmation.

Lynne Chinn: “For me, being an artist is not something I chose; it is who and what I am and always was. ...” Among her works are a 72” x 72” public art commission, as well as a 72” x 108” Italian smalti mosaic icon at Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon. She was also the featured cover artist and subject of an editorial for Mosaic Art Now. “Within this ancient art form, I believe in using the finest materials I can find, including 24K gold smalti, colored smalti, marble, natural stone, crystals and minerals, vitreous and stained glass, Millefiori, and shell, in conjunction with the most up-to-date installation tools, products and techniques to create modern yet enduring works of art.” – Mosaic Art Now

Brother Claude Lane, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey, is an active iconographer and has been teaching the technique for over twenty years. His goal has been to create images that reflect the theology as well as some of the canonical and stylistic traditions preserved over the centuries by the Christian East. At the same time, he strives to adapt the art to the theological and devotional traditions of the Catholic West. Brother Claude has been drawing and painting since childhood. In 1985 Abbot Bonaventure Zerr, OSB, encouraged him to learn and devote time to iconography. He studied with Canadian iconographer Michael O’Brien and, since then, has been the Abbey Iconographer and has written hundreds of icons.
“Mary Magdalene”
23" x 23" Mosaic by Father Martin Grassel, OSB, 2010-2011.
The mosaic is composed of various colored and 24K gold Italian smalti, giving the portrait a soft painterly quality. – Located in Father Martin’s Office.

Father Martin Grassel, OSB, a monk of Mount Angel Abbey, was more recently inspired than those artists discussed earlier to take up the ancient art of mosaics. His formal introduction began when he met mosaicist Lynne Chinn, in 2010. Soon Father Martin was taking intensive mosaic instruction from Lynne. After ten years, and despite demanding work assignments, Father Martin continues to quietly produce some small mosaic masterpieces as seen in this exhibit.