Stories from a Life in Art

Speaker Date: Jan. 31, 2020

Chas Fagan’s career path has been decidedly unplanned. From Presidents and Popes to downright impressive Americans, his journey through the art world has presented him with some fascinating people…and some unexpected situations. Chas will share a cherished selection of back stories behind some of his projects and creations.

Chas Fagan is an American artist who grew up in Belgium and in rural Pennsylvania, gathering inspiration from the rich landscape and history of his surroundings.

Chas’ ability to combine his artistic gifts with his knowledge of history has led to several high-profile commissions. Among his favorites are his statue of President Reagan in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, a “young Neil Armstrong” statue for Purdue University (including a surrounding plaza with moon-boot prints), his sculpture of Rosa Parks in the Narthex of Washington National Cathedral, and a monumental-scale bronze sculpture in Dallas titled “Freedom’s Charge”, featuring two Revolutionary War figures and a billowing battalion flag from Bunker Hill. He was also fortunate to be asked to paint the official White House portrait of First Lady Barbara Bush, and the official portrait of Mother Teresa for her canonization at St. Peter’s in Rome.