Bringing Back the Blue

Painters from EverGreene Architectural Arts recently brought back the first strokes of blue to The Basilica’s magnificent ceiling. This radiant blue represents Mary and restores vibrancy to the architectural details overhead.

The rich blue, gold, and red details have made the ceiling a masterpiece for more than a century. Over the next nine months, skilled craftspeople will work high above the nave, carefully restoring every detail.

As layers of paint are uncovered throughout the restoration, original decorative details continue to emerge. Each discovery helps guide the restoration, bringing the ceiling back to the beauty seen at the first Mass in 1914.

Photos: Ken Fournelle