Samuel John Butcher of Precious Moments fame has ventured into publishing self-authored books that are fast becoming collectors’ items.
Sam’s venture into book publishing is not an accident. With a wealth of information and materials to share, he comes across not just as an outstanding subject but a first rate storyteller both in words and pictures.
Not surprisingly, his first book, “Sam Butcher: An Artist for Everyone” was a brilliant idea that sold all available copies to rave reviews. Launched at the Precious Moments 2009 Family Reunion at the Chapel (Carthage) this June, the book had an initial run of only 3,000 copies.
The book is, in the author’s own words, an illustrated story of his life, showcasing his contemporary body of work apart from the famous teardrop-eyed children known as Precious Moments, on which the book takes off. Murals and paintings on the Precious Moments Chapel in Carthage come after a foreword by editor Larrene Hagaman and a short introduction by Jon Butcher, the artist’s eldest son. A coterie of experiences follow suit in what appears a pastiche of stories that take place at the Chapel.
With this book, Sam Butcher brings a wealth of experience to the fore, having unplugged all the proverbial stops, showing his versatility as an artist. The majority of this body of work came to the fore when he was virtually a recluse, painting day and night, not just inspired but with unbridled enthusiasm that resulted in over 200 paintings in less than 2 months. These paintings show the many different styles of Sam Butcher, with shades of chiaroscuro or a plethora of colors, unmistakably unique on one hand and on the other, influenced by the masters. Sam Butcher is equally adept in abstract and non-objective art as well as in the stunning clarity of his impressionist works, altogether showing an undeniable stroke of genius.
Sam’s second book renders in prose his thoughts on bringing up children, aptly entitled: “Children’s Book of Golden Rules”. Illustrated in his famed and inimitable Precious Moments style, the handy book explains in Sam’s clear prose tenets and precepts about how children should conduct themselves.
Clear thoughts such as “I will never snub somebody, Because I know, it isn’t fair, To turn around, just walk away, And act as if he isn’t there” is telling it like it is. Topics covered include jealousy, competition, procrastination, rudeness, and gossip, among a host of others. It is not all negative attitudes that are being addressed. The book also promotes a better understanding of God’s love, the importance of family, the importance of being well brought up, and the value of friendship. It is not that serious though since there is even a tip of how to properly chew gum.
The very private, hold-me-by-the-hand narrative called “My Journey through the Chapel” is the third book published in this series, and the most intimate. It is a poignant ‘how I did it’ account of Sam’s most challenging project to date: the Chapel in Carthage.
Sam revisits paintings and murals at the Chapel and recounts personal and vicarious experiences. His very private recollections and musings are eloquently expressed with the honesty and conviction of someone who has dedicated his life, his works, to the Glory of God.
Go with Sam Butcher, artist extraordinaire, on this very personal and very intimate journey and get to know Sam’s thoughts and afterthoughts on the Chapel in Carthage, his most challenging project.
Please visit www.samueljbutcher.com for more information regarding these books and for other books that will be published soon.
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