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Print of the Ascension of Christ: treasured artwork offers a lesson

Ascension of Christ oleograph

The story has been told time and time again, so that it almost sounds like a legend. As the story goes, Mother Antonia Herb purchased artwork during a time when the community was extremely low on funds, and when her actions were questioned, she stated that the sisters needed food for their souls as well as their bodies. Mother Antonia's actions in August of 1871 are legendary, but for those who question the historical accuracy, they are documented, in part, as well.

That year, the sisters departed Jefferson for their new home in La Crosse. Meals were plain because of the need to be frugal, and coffee and a slice of bread was the usual breakfast. Sometimes older sisters would pass a portion of their bread under the table to younger sisters whose appetites would not be satisfied by the meager portions. The poverty of the convent was well-known, yet in the same time period, Mother Antonia sought to "fit out a temporary chapel," according to A Chapter of Franciscan History, 1889-1949, by Sister M. Mileta Ludwig, FSPA. "Since the proper adornment of the House of God was ever a matter of importance with Mother Antonia, she managed to purchase from the widow's mite that constituted the community's cash capital at the time, two oleographs (color lithographs) to be hung on either side of the altar, one of the Ascension of Christ, and the other of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin."

Today the Ascension of Christ oleograph hangs in the Heritage Room. Sadly, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin artwork is now missing. But while some of the art Mother Antonia purchased that day may be long gone, the poignancy of her lesson lingers even today.

Other art forms embraced by the FSPA abound and a visitor to the Heritage Room need only glance around to gain appreciation for the FSPA dedication to the visual arts throughout the community's history. Some of the methods of artistry have disappeared as automation has taken over or fads have come and gone. Yet these pieces serve as a nod to the unique talents of sisters long gone, and a reminder of the importance of creating a visual diary, no matter what the art form, for future generations to appreciate.

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