If you look at the dome inside the Basilica of Sainte-Anne, and in particular at the Virgin Mary and the angels painted there, you notice something a little familiar? As if they all looked, well, more like local residents than a painting from the early 20th century? You’re not mistaken.
Indeed, Guido Nincheri, the famous artist behind this work that dominates the church, drew inspiration from his own wife to depict Mary, and from young bachelors from Varennes for the angels surrounding her.
Nincheri, a fresco artist who has produced over 3,000 religious works in Canada, gave a local touch to one of his greatest achievements. And this was long before egoportraits (selfies).