“Good Shepherd Arts Center is very energizing, comfortable and friendly. I found the center last year when I was meeting friends next door. I had arrived early and saw paper cranes hanging in the window of the arts center. The cranes drew me in. I have been coming to art openings and buying art here ever since,” said St. Louis resident Benjamin Diefenbach.
A self-described ambassador of the center, Benjamin soon brought his friend Mardy Cuypers with him to an art opening. An arts appreciator, Mardy said he enjoyed the enriching experience of the exhibit’s opening night. He has since become a regular patron, along with his friend Benjamin.
-
-
-
-
Art patrons study the works on display at Good Shepherd Gallery.
The art at Good Shepherd Arts Center is soul stirring and uplifting. The artwork in this gallery is beautiful and meaningful. I have purchased several pieces of artwork at the openings for myself and to give others. The sacred art makes for perfect wedding gifts,” Mardy said.
It’s common to hear people say they like the shows and ambience of the Good Shepherd Arts Center. Glynis McManamon, RGS, founded the sacred arts ministry. She is gratified by people’s appreciation for the sense of place she has created.
Good Shepherd presence of peace
The center opened in Ferguson in November 2015, one year after the shooting death of teenager Michael Brown. The intention was for Sisters of the Good Shepherd to be a presence of peace in a troubled city.
The center originated as a studio and gallery for religious art depicting racial diversity. The facility evolved into Good Shepherd Arts Center and incorporated as a 501(c)(3) organization last year.
Today Sr. Glynis serves as the director of the arts center. Sister Mary Catherine Massei volunteers as business manager. A board of directors oversees the non profit. Two community members, Pat Parrish and Debbie Rosso, volunteer routinely.
The mission of Good Shepherd Arts Center is to exhibit art and offer experiences that affirm human dignity, uplift hearts and link creativity with spirituality.
Beauty will save the world
The center’s tagline is “Beauty will save the world.” It pretty much sums up the vision Sr. Glynis holds for the arts center. Her team of dedicated supporters have made it their goal to welcome all who enter the space. It’s a cozy place with a rocking chair and plenty of other seating for folks who want to rest in peace and quiet for a while.
Good Shepherd Arts Center is a place where people connect. Arts patrons, curiosity seekers, community members and people coming in from the street can mingle and relax together. They can share a cup of hot tea and find common ground. The convergence often leads to conversations about art, religion, politics, spirituality, family, blessings, and community. Refreshments and respect are standard fare. After a visit to the arts center and gallery, people routinely leave the space feeling that beauty truly will save the world.
The next exhibit runs from February 2-23 and is titled “History in Technicolor: North County Students Reflect on Black History Month. The show is sponsored by North County Churches Uniting for Racial Harmony and Justice, and is made possible through the generosity of the De La Salle Christian Brothers’ FSC Foundation.
