How do you improve on a sacred space? That was artist Adam Cvijanovic's assignment when he was approached early last year: a mural for St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. "The Catholic Church hasn't done a significant piece of art like this in a long, long time," he said.

But Cvijanovic's commission made him part of a tradition that has gone on for centuries. "Yes," he said, "and that made it all the more daunting."

While drawing inspiration from the old-world masters, Cvijanovic, who works primarily on a large scale, wanted to create something distinctly American. The mural, called "What's So Funny About Peace, Love and Understanding," now graces the entrance – the narthex – to what many call America's parish church.

Adam Cvijanovic working on his mural for the entranceway of St.

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