When Denise Kowal accepted the invitation to judge the prestigious Grazie Madonnari competition for the third time, she immediately inquired about American representation in the roster. To her surprise, there were none. With limited time before the artist application deadline, Denise embarked on a campaign to rally American talent to this internationally renowned competition. Her efforts paid off, with five American artists applying and ultimately being accepted into the event.
The Grazie Madonnari competition, deeply rooted in church tradition, is open to anyone willing to endure the extreme heat and the intense 24-hour artistic test, seen as a devotional act by many. Artists are provided with a small stipend and are expected to cover their own supplies, travel, and other expenses. As is often the case, these American artists were accompanied by loved ones—grandchildren, spouses, daughters—who explored the culturally rich and historic surroundings before and after the event. This international gathering of artists mirrors what happens each year at the Sarasota International Chalk Festival, where Kowal sponsors 120 artists from 20 countries, bringing substantial tourism to Sarasota and bolstering its reputation as Florida’s Cultural Coast.
This year was particularly significant for the Grazie Madonnari competition as it marked the 50th anniversary. Departing from its traditional focus on Madonna depictions, the event embraced a compelling new theme: Dante’s Divine Comedy. Each artist was assigned a Canto, or poem, with two or three lines as the basis for their artwork. The resulting pieces were a stunning array of interpretations judged by panels, including scholars from the Dante Alighieri Society.
Among the five American artists, Melanie Stimmel van Latum and Tonya Lee Nielsen found themselves in Paradiso, Erik Schlake in Purgatorio, and Holland King and Julie Kirk Purcell in Inferno. Their artistic journeys were as diverse as the Cantos they were assigned, and their performances left a lasting impression.
Melanie Stimmel van Latum, a seasoned artist from Las Vegas, brought her extensive international experience to Paradiso. Known for her ethereal depictions of Madonna, Melanie’s intricate portrayal of Beatrice and Dante earned her the Paradiso Maestro Bronze Medal, her fifth medal at Grazie. She was the second woman to win the title of Maestra Madonnara in Italy in 2010 and remains the only artist to have held the title in both Italy and Germany.
Julie Kirk Purcell, another standout, advanced from the Qualifed to the Maestro category with her lifelike portrayal of Cerberus, the three-headed hellhound from Inferno. Julie’s dark and haunting depiction was based on one of her cadaver-detecting canines that had recently passed away, adding a deeply personal touch to her work. Her piece, featuring a victim reaching out of the frame, captivated judges and audiences alike.
Tonya Lee Nielsen, new to the Grazie competition but a veteran of the Sarasota International Chalk Festival, received the “Premio Opera Segnalata” recognition—an honorable mention. Her portrayal of Apollo and Dante in Paradiso was particularly striking, with the background softened by a torrential rainstorm the night before. Known for her joyful and lighthearted caricatures, Tonya’s assignment of a joyful Apollo was a fitting and serendipitous choice by the organizers.
Erik Schlake made his debut at Grazie with a powerful portrayal in Purgatorio. His classical epic depiction of a judgment by the Guardian atop multicolored steps radiated drama and intensity. The three steps, symbolizing the contrition of the heart, confession over the lips, and satisfaction by works, added depth and symbolism to his already captivating piece. His sword radiates judgment and authority.
Holland King, a newcomer to the international Madonnari art scene, brought a unique 1980s romance novel-inspired take to Inferno. His original sketch, deemed too saucy for church grounds, was modified, yet still retained its rich, colorful, and dramatic flair, as forbidden lovers in life are cast about in a tornadic embrace in hell. Holland’s choice of chalk, which held up remarkably well during the downpour, ensured that his work remained vibrant despite the challenging conditions.
As the dust settled and the piazza in front of the Grazie Church emptied, the American and international competitors alike were united by their devotion to this ephemeral art form. Their skin, powdered with the remnants of their art, was a testament to the passion and dedication required to participate in this unique event.
All five American artists have been invited to perform at the Sarasota International Chalk Festival from November 8-10, 2024. As they prepare to bring their talents to Florida’s Cultural Coast, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in their artistic journeys.