PAINTED PORTRAIT STORIES:

The story behind a painting commission honoring the 90th Grand Master of the Masons of Massachusetts.

M.W. Richard Maggio
Grand Master of the Masons in Massachusetts

Official Portrait Honoring
M.W. Richard Maggio

90th Grand Master of Masons in Massachusetts
Served in the role for a three year term, 2019-2022
Highest ranking leadership role of the third oldest Masonic Grand Lodge in the world and the oldest Grand Lodge in the Americas
Follows in the historic footsteps of Past Grand Masters Paul Revere and Joseph Warren
An honored tradition since 1733

"It's Magnificent."

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Your paintings are more realistic than most other artists I had looked at. Working together was a great experience, as you communicated every step of the way. Seeing the finished product is really very exciting. It's magnificent."

- Grand Master Richard Maggio, Masons of Massachusetts

⬇️ Listen to the Grand Master's experience -- in his own words. ⬇️

The making of an historic portrait commission

Creating A Piece of History

Creating the official portrait painting of Grand Master Richard Maggio was more than simply creating an authentic likeness of a respected leader. The portrait painting itself symbolizes the most recent chapter in the rich history and enduring legacy of the Masonic organization dating back to 1733. Serving as the 90th Grand Master, Maggio continues the lineage of notable leaders like Paul Revere and General Joseph Warren. It's a symbol of historical continuity, marking Maggio's place in this time-honored tradition.

The Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts was chartered in 1733, making Massachusetts the third oldest Grand Lodge in the world and the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.

portrait sitting for painting commission of grand master boston

On location for the portrait sitting.

oil painting portrait studio boston massachusetts

Attending to fine details of the sitting.

selection of reference photo for oil painting boston leader

Selecting the ideal reference to use.

A Legacy of Service

Richard Maggio has been active in several Masonic organizations in his lifetime, and since 2000, has accepted leadership positions within several lodges throughout Massachusetts.

His portrait serves as a tangible distinction, honoring his legacy in the role of Grand Master, but it also recognizes a personal continuum of service to the organization.

Working on the lifesize painting canvas.

Mixing oil paints on the palette.

Behind the scenes in the studio.

Refining the Details

Every detail of the painting commission -- the confidence in his posture, the kindness in his eyes, the quiet and humble expression -- is an homage to Maggio's commitment of service. The careful refinement of these authentic details and oil paint brushstrokes reflects the same dedication and thoughtfulness that Maggio brought to his role as the Grand Master.

The Ceremonial Unveiling at the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts

In December 2022, Richard Maggio's painting was formally unveiled for the first time before hundreds of Masonic brothers at the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. It was a formal act of recognition, an affirmation of his service, and a continuum of a rich tradition steeped in respect, honor, and gratitude for the leaders who have shaped the organization. Standing among the portraits of his distinguished predecessors in the hallowed hallways, this new portrait painting commission commemorates Maggio's contribution to the continual betterment of his Masonic brothers within the world's oldest and largest fraternity.

Photos courtesy of The Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts and Trowel magazine.

From the Artist: "It's an Honor & Privilege"

"It is indeed a great honor and privilege to be selected for the commission of the official portrait of Grand Master Richard Maggio, whose role is to preside over the oldest Masonic Grand Lodge in the Western Hemisphere (since 1733), and the third oldest charter in the world." -- Bobbie Bush

Who in your organization would you like to honor?

We just accept 5 commissions a month.

Will yours be one of them?

Yes, I'd love to learn more.

It's easier than you think to Commission a Painting.

"When we work together, you'll be guided through each step of the process, know what to expect, and there will be no surprises about a person's likeness. In the end, you'll have the custom painting you have always envisioned."

Bobbie Bush, portrait artist