‘Voices of Vatican II’ University of St. Francis - Joliet, Illinois

(Photos provided)

Destination: The University of St. Francis will commemorate 50 years of Vatican II with programs in art, lecture and music with the theme “Celebrating a Pilgrim People: The Voices of Vatican II.” The celebration will include an exhibit, “The World of Vatican II: An Artist’s Report,” by Franklin McMahon.
The image (left) is his “Vatican Council Procession.”
Why to go:  “The World of Vatican II: An Artist’s Report” by Franklin McMahon features the works of the artist-reporter from Lake Forest, who worked worldwide recording religious, cultural, and political events. His paintings and drawings have graced the covers of Chicago Tribune Magazine, and the pages of Life, Look, Jubilee, U.S. Catholic and Commonweal magazines. Highly recognized for his contributions to art and journalism, McMahon received three Emmys, a Peabody Award for Excellence in Broadcasting and the Renaissance Prize from the Art Institute of Chicago. He is collected by the Chicago History Museum, Library of Congress, NASA and Lake County Discovery Museum.
McMahon was in Rome for opening day and all subsequent major events of the Second Vatican Council between 1962 and 1965 – producing a book “This Church These Times: The Roman Catholic Church since Vatican II,” and an award-winning film documentary, “The World of Vatican II, An Artist’s Report.”
McMahon’s works will be on display from Sept. 15 through Oct. 12, 2014, at the university’s art gallery at the Rialto, 5 Van Buren St. in downtown Joliet.
Special events: On Sept. 25, 2014, at 7 p.m., McMahon’s works will be discussed by his son, Mark McMahon and the curator for the artist, Kathleen Van Ella. The presentation will be at the university’s St. Bonaventure Hall (former Mode building), 16 Van Buren St., downtown Joliet. After the presentation, there will be a short walk to the gallery to view the exhibit with a reception. It is one of several Vatican II presentations that will be part of the 50 year anniversary event.
Admission: Hours vary. Special showings can also be arranged by calling call 815-740-3367.
(Grand) Kid friendly: Sure, kids can appreciate art. They might also enjoy a visit to the campus. Plan that stop at www.stfrancis.edu.
Info: Address: Rialto, 5 Van Buren St., Joliet, IL 60432 Phone: 815/740-3367. Web: www.stfrancis.edu (type City Center Gallery in the search box for more information)

- Compiled by Sharon Boehlefeld
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