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Modern artist cast a new light on the Annunciation and reach a new generation who are perhaps turned off by some sentimental, pious art.

Gottfried Helnwein

The Annunciation is celebrated on March 25th.The artistic tradition continues through hundreds, why even thousands of years because modern artists are still fascinated by Mary and her encounter with the angel Gabriel.

There are so many moments to capture her initial shock, fear, sense of awe and wonder, questions, acceptance and final glorious infilling by the Holy Spirit.Each artist reflects a different facet of truth with the Spirit of God shining through each painting in a

myriad of different hues and tones and nuances.

And the angel being come in said unto her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

Who having heard, was troubled at his saying, and thought with herself what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said to her: Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God.

The Annunciation – Dante Gabriel Rossetti

Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and shalt bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the most High;

and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father; he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever. And of his kingdom, there shall be no end.

And behold thy cousin Elizabeth, she also hath conceived a son in her old age; and this is the sixth month with her that is called barren:

by HolyWaterColor

Because no word shall be impossible with God. And Mary said: Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.” -Luke 1:26-38

Henry Ossawa Tanner