Customer Reviews

Divine Favor: The Art of Joseph O'Connell (Introducing Minnesota Religion)

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Joe O'Connell was a freelance sculptor and carver in central Minnesota who made a life out of wood and stone, carving for churches mainly, and his work is quite a wonder to behold. This book is the most complete so far and includes some fine photos, but of course O'Connell work encountered in the real world ---- the crucifixes, the BVMs, the marvellous carvings in which he represents Ellington and Fats Waller and Louis Armstrong as angels ---- the real thing is even more astonishing. He was a folk artist and a fine artist and the book is an homage to him.

The late Joseph O'connell was a master sculptor,craftsman andartist,whose main work, it appears was liturgical.thereby consigning him to a lesser place among artists in this era. Too bad,for his work leaps off the page,full of life and mirth,celebration and deep pathos. He seemed to understand suffering in a way that was not self-indulgent,and portrayed it in stone,magnificently.He did hands very well, touching, probing holding caressing, and for me they seem to hold the key to some of his works. My only complaint is that this book is quite expensive,though handsomely done.Funny when reading this I felt more comfortable listening to Count Basie and Louis Armstrong then Ambrosian chant or William Byrd. Perhaps that too, is a tribute to this fine, wonderful artist.

My father was an incredible sculptor. He lived his life to create the work you see in this book. I am honored by all that was written about him and I am thrilled to see this book put together with such care.