Life is a mystery, everyone must stand alone – but not if you adore Madonna as much as I do. Listening to the goddess of pop makes me feel bright, shiny and new, almost like a virgin – whether jamming to “Into the Groove” or “Vogue.” Her musical career spans over decades and still reigns as an artistic force today. A symbol of progression, openness, unique beauty and underground finesse, the woman still inspires my style and mindset today. As a Catholic who, well, may not fit the Christian mold to a T, I respect, relate and adulate Madonna’s own Catholic roots and her fusion of religious ideology and modern deviance. Thanks to her, I feel more comfortable in embracing my somewhat wanton nature while worshipping a higher being at the same time.

Illustration by Christoph Michaud.

Illustration by Christoph Michaud.

Illustration by Christoph Michaud.

Illustration by Christoph Michaud.

My friend Christoph Michaud, a graphic designer and illustrator in Austin, Texas, surprised me with a sublime portrait of my favorite artist yesterday. Drawn with of a Zig Clean Color water-based pen and water colors, the illustration looks immaculate – the clean lines and stunning shadows make for an alluring look for Madonna circa “True Blue.” I’ve yet to choose an exact spot to place the piece, but I’m sure it’ll be hung up somewhere divinely appropriate.

Christoph also designs web sites and excels in graphic designing – portraits are more of a hobby. Be sure to visit his site, 7-reed.com, to sift through his work and revel in its beauty.

Yours truly,

Jonathan