Painting Faith into the Walls: The Saint Mark Church and School Murals

Saint Mark School and Church- 2475 Lincoln Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Earlier this year, I had the immense honor of being chosen as the official artist for a mural series at Saint Mark Church and School in Venice, California. What began as a call from Deacon Charlie turned into a months-long journey of faith, creativity, and deep historical research—one that challenged me as an artist and moved me deeply as a human being.

When I was first approached, the church’s vision was clear: they wanted to create a landmark—something not only beautiful, but also meaningful and lasting. A way to honor the lives and legacies of four remarkable saints: Blessed Miguel Pro, Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, Saint Candidus, and Saint Mark.

Before I was officially awarded the commission, I was asked to create a design proposal. I spent weeks immersed in research, determined to understand each saint not just historically, but spiritually. I didn’t want to just depict them—I wanted to honor them, to portray them as they might wish to be seen.

From Left to right: Saint Miguel Pro, Saint Marie-Rose Durocher, Saint Candidus

With Saint Miguel Pro, I watched a documentary and read stories about his courage during religious persecution in Mexico. His disguises, his underground ministry, and ultimately his execution left a deep impression on me. I chose to paint him in his final moments, crying out “¡Viva Cristo Rey!” as a testament to his fearless devotion.

Saint Marie-Rose Durocher, a champion for girls' education, struck me as a quiet revolutionary. Despite her failing health, she opened the doors of learning to so many. I painted her as if she were still with us—still teaching, still nurturing minds and hearts.

Saint Candidus was the most mysterious. With little visual reference to work from, I turned to history books, Roman soldier attire, and the culture of Upper Egypt. I constructed his image from the ground up—giving him a red cloak symbolizing readiness and humility. To me, he became a guardian figure, almost like a saintly superhero.

Saint Mark Mosaic Mural

The fourth mural, a mosaic-style portrait of Saint Mark on the exterior wall facing Lincoln Blvd, was inspired by a sixth-century tablet that also informed the church’s logo. I created the piece using only spray paint, mimicking the intricate feel of mosaic tile. The process was challenging, but I leaned on faith and intuition to guide me.

I began the murals in December, planning a 6–8 week timeline. But nature had other plans. Unprecedented rainstorms and wildfires in Los Angeles delayed the project. There were days I showed up to paint, only to be caught in a downpour. Paint doesn’t stick to a wet wall, so I had to wait—and pray—for better conditions.

Through it all, my husband Alexandre was my rock. We tackled the prep work together—sanding, priming, and lifting day after day to get the walls ready for paint. Having his help meant I didn’t have to shoulder it all alone. I’m also incredibly grateful to Parish Manager Michael Manzella, who not only supported us throughout the process but jumped in hands-on—power washing the walls himself and even building a custom wooden ramp by hand so we could maneuver the lift to reach some difficult sections. His thoughtfulness and dedication truly meant a lot during those long, often hot days on site.

Saint Mark Church and School -mural dedication and unveiling on Sunday, June 8th 2025

On June 8th, Saint Mark Church hosted a heartfelt ceremony to unveil and bless the new murals I created for their campus. The evening began with opening remarks from Deacon Charlie and Father Albert, who welcomed the community, acknowledged special guests and sponsors, and shared the vision behind the mural project and the parish’s growing commitment to arts and media. I was honored to be recognized during the program and to share my creative process—from the initial research into the lives of the saints to the weeks of hands-on work that brought the murals to life. Father Albert and I took a moment to thank the many volunteers, donors, and supporters who made the project possible. One of the most meaningful parts of the evening was the ribbon-cutting, led by Bishop Elshoff, followed by a special blessing of the building. It was a beautiful gathering of community, faith, and art—one I’ll always treasure.

Painting outdoors, especially in a public space like this, invites community. People stopped to ask what I was painting. Some thought I was tagging the building at first, but once they saw the murals take shape, they came back to express how proud they were to witness the transformation. Others yelled from their cars as they drove by, cheering or asking questions. Eventually, I made a sign with a QR code so people could learn more without interrupting—but I often chatted with them anyway.

The schoolchildren were some of my favorite visitors. They would come by with their teacher, eyes wide with curiosity, asking questions about the saints or even for my autograph. Their joy reminded me of why I do this work—to inspire, to educate, and to connect.

In the end, this project became so much more than paint on walls. It became a labor of love, a public act of devotion, and a way to uplift not just a building, but an entire community.

I hope the murals serve as a lasting tribute—to the saints, to the school, and to everyone who stops to look up and feel something stir inside them.

Thank you, Saint Mark Church and School, for trusting me with your vision. I’ll carry this experience with me always.

A New Chapter: My Studio Opening in Koreatown + What’s Coming Next

Art by Presa Studio Opening June 21st 2025. Video credit: Jaron Hall IG @jaronhallcinematography

On June 21st, something shifted — not just in my career, but in my heart.

After years of putting myself out there — from murals in Palm Springs to private commissions around Los Angeles — I opened the doors to something deeply personal: my own creative studio space in Koreatown. This space isn’t just a place to showcase my work — it’s a sanctuary for creativity, connection, and growth.

A Night to Remember

The opening brought together a beautiful mix of people — some who have supported my journey from the beginning and others who found me through the event announcement and were curious to see the space. It meant the world to be surrounded by familiar faces and total strangers who resonated with my art and wanted to connect.

Some of my past clients — people who had commissioned original paintings or collected my work — came by to show their continued support. And then there were new faces — people who discovered the event online or simply wandered in — who shared heartfelt reflections about my pieces, asked thoughtful questions, and made the evening feel alive with conversation and curiosity.

A Family Affair

The night was also a family effort in every sense. My mom greeted guests at the door, my brother ran around helping with everything behind the scenes, my husband served as bartender, and my nephew generously filmed the event to help document this new beginning. Their presence grounded the space with love, warmth, and support — and I’m so grateful for each of them.

I started the evening painting live on a new piece — something deeply personal that weaves together themes I’ve explored in past works, but with an energy that feels entirely my own. Throughout the night, people told me how moved they were by the colors, the storytelling, and the strength in the feminine themes — the exact kind of feedback that helps me know I’m heading in the right direction.

Singing, Nervousness, and Finding Courage

Later in the evening, I performed three original songs. I was nervous — maybe more than I’ve ever been. I’m still learning how to share this part of myself publicly. But the room was filled with encouragement: kind eyes, warm smiles, gentle support. Even though I didn’t feel perfect in that moment, I felt seen. And that gave me the courage to keep going.

What Comes Next

This studio is more than a creative workspace — it’s the start of something much bigger. A place where others can gather, feel inspired, and make art from the heart. I’ll be offering small, exclusive art classes starting mid-July for those who want guidance in their creative practice — whether you’re brand new or coming back to art after a long time away.

How Murals Can Transform Your Space

Murals have the power to completely transform a space, turning blank walls into conversation starters, cultural landmarks, and sources of inspiration. Over the past 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of creating murals that breathe life into spaces lacking character. Whether it’s a hotel, bar, school, or conference room, I always approach each project with the goal of crafting something that resonates with the community and enriches the environment.

Creating Meaningful Connections Through Art

Many of the projects I take on start with a simple, unremarkable wall. But through research, creativity, and storytelling, I can turn that wall into a focal point that sparks emotion and dialogue. One such project was for a Marriott hotel in the Garment District of New York, where I incorporated a concrete faux finish with scripted quotes as a mural for a conference room. What was once a plain, uninspiring space became a visually dynamic area that encouraged conversation while paying homage to the district’s history.

Another example is Sweet Liberty, a beloved local bar in Miami. For this mural, I delved into Miami Beach’s history from the 1940s to the 1960s, using vintage postcards as inspiration. The result was an intricate, detailed mural infused with historical elements and subtle satire, creating an artwork that continues to draw in locals and visitors. It’s a piece that not only honors the city’s past but also serves as a backdrop for new memories.

Sweet Liberty Mural - Miami Beach

The Power of Research and Community Engagement

Before I even pick up a brush, I dedicate weeks to research—collecting images, reading about the area, and even listening to stories from locals. This process helps me create murals that feel like they belong to the space, not just decorations on a wall. I believe that murals should be permanent reflections of a community’s identity.

One of my proudest projects was at Spirit of Sofia in Palm Springs, California. This wasn’t just a single mural—it was a fully immersive artistic experience. I painted a mural at the entrance, detailed floral patterns throughout the space, pool deck murals, floor murals, and a striking portrait of Carmen Sevilla in the outdoor kitchen area. By designing artwork that was cohesive with the hotel’s entire aesthetic, the transformation was complete. The space became not just a place to stay, but a place that told a story.

Murals as Landmarks and Community Pillars

Murals also have the ability to become landmarks that stand the test of time. One of my most significant ongoing projects is at Saint Mark Catholic Church and School, where I’ve been creating murals that showcase detailed portraits of saints whose relics reside in the church.

While working on this piece, I’ve witnessed firsthand the way art draws people in. Every day, as I paint, people pass by, honking their horns, stopping to chat, and asking about the significance of the saints I’m depicting. This experience has reinforced my belief that people crave meaningful art—art that tells them about their history, their culture, and their identity.

St Mark Mosaic Mural - Venice Beach CA

Murals as a Force for Change

Beyond aesthetics, murals evoke emotions, preserve history, and even help revitalize neighborhoods. Art has been known to gentrify struggling areas, inspire future artists, and build a sense of belonging. A well-executed mural doesn’t just decorate a space—it transforms it.

The Lasting Impact of Murals

In the end, a mural is more than just paint on a wall. It’s a story waiting to be told, a memory waiting to be made, and a movement waiting to begin. Whether in a hotel, a bar, a church, or a school, murals have the ability to transcend time and space, leaving a lasting impact on the people who experience them.

So, if you’re looking to transform your space, consider the power of a mural. It might just turn a simple wall into something extraordinary.