Iconographer Robert Lentz at work in his studio. (Photo courtesy of Br. Robert Lentz.)
SILVER SPRING, Md. — An online venture has been launched for Robert Lentz, OFM, a master iconographer stationed at Holy Name College. A new website, RobertLentz.com, provides a glimpse into his work through stories and videos about his life as an artist, a friar and a contemplative human being.
Through the website, Robert will release a series of videos and blog posts discussing his experiences and influences, providing insight into his choice of subjects for his iconography. His website will be home to new artwork releases, event announcements and updates on current and future projects. A subscription service is used to send updates to users.
“My icons challenge the status quo and respond to questions people are asking in the modern world,” said Robert. “While I have had critics for the past 30 years, they have become more frequent and more virulent on the Internet. Some object to anything new in the way icons look. Others disagree with my theological views.”
He continued, “This website is an opportunity for me to tell my own story, so that anyone who wants to understand my work will have something to read besides my critics’ blogs. Thomas Conway, OFM, came up with the idea when he was guardian at Holy Name College. He believed in what I was doing and felt that a professional website would make my ministry as a Franciscan artist more effective.”
The website includes sections titled “Who is Robert Lentz,” “The Art of Juxtopositon” and “Selected Works,” as well as links to Robert’s Facebook, YouTube and Pinterest pages.
Follow Robert Lentz, OFM’s board Robert’s Icons on Pinterest.
Robert exclusively sells his artwork through trinitystores.com, an online religious work and iconography storefront.
“We encourage people to visit and follow Robert’s new website to learn more about his work with the marginalized and his expression of Franciscan beliefs through his artwork,” said Michael Reyes, OFM. Michael is Robert’s apprentice as well as his business manager.
The website, launched Sept. 19, was created by The Quilted Squirrel, a marketing agency run by St. Bonaventure University graduates.
Next week, Robert will be speaking at St. Francis of Assisi Church in New York City. The Oct. 1 presentation will include an unveiling of Robert’s new St. Anthony icon, commissioned by St. Anthony’s Guild. Information about future exhibits and talks will appear on his website.
Earlier this year, Robert’s life and art were featured in St. Anthony Messenger magazine. Last fall, an artistic effort by Robert came to completion, with the unveiling and blessing of the “Wall of Icons” in the sanctuary of All Saints Church in Houston.
Several other HNP friars showcase their work on the Web. They include photographer Octavio Duran, OFM, and artist David Haack, OFM.
— Jocelyn Thomas is director of communications for Holy Name Province.