Benedictine Monks of Saint Meinrad Present Duo Exhibition

The works of two Benedictine monks of Saint Meinrad are on display in a new exhibit, “Enamored: Lines, Colors, and Patterns.”  

Although they express their artistry through different mediums, the creations of Father Harry Hagan and Brother Jean Fish celebrate and explore the beauty of the visual world. Father Harry began painting in 2008. His colorful, striped watercolors developed from a class that he taught. He continues to explore color in his line paintings, which led to the works in this series. The addition of a verse from Psalms and a grouping of landscapes contributes to his overall study of color.  

Brother Jean Fish earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2024. His woven artwork emerges from an intricate process by which jute upholstery cording is used to create a structure. Then, colored yarn is hand-woven around the jute to create complex patterns in various forms. 

In addition to the artistry of his work, Brother Fish views his sculptural basket weaving as a type of meditation. In addition to the exhibit, visitors may view the many other examples of art and architecture that are housed throughout the St. Meinrad campus. The breathtaking stained glass, the architecture of the church, and its stunning façade date back to the turn of the twentieth century. In the Chapter Room, visitors can view the extraordinary works of Fr. Gregory de Wit, an artist monk who was commissioned to depict passages from the Rule of St. Benedict. His work is also found in the murals of St. Meinrad and St. Benedict in the Memorial Lobby and in the Archabbey Church. The outdoor sculptures, beautiful carvings of historical and artistic significance, also provide opportunity for thoughtful reflection. 

“Enamored: Lines, Colors, and Patterns” runs now through April 15 at the Saint Meinrad Archabbey Library Gallery. While the exhibit is free and open to the public, guests are strongly encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before closing. Library hours are subject to change and may vary with monastery schedules and school calendars. 

For more information or library hours, call 812-357-6401 or 800-987-7311. You may also visit the Archabbey Library’s website at www.saintmeinrad.edu/library.


- By Drew Hasselbring