“Do Small Things with Great Love” — Hand-Painted Magnolia on Salvaged Church Pew Wood
Original Artwork by Paige DeBell | New Orleans Artist
This soulful piece was painted on a segment of a salvaged church pew from the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans. After floodwaters forced the church to make replacements, these pews—rich with decades of prayer, song, and spirit—were given new life as part of my art.
I painted blooming magnolias, symbols of grace and resilience, across the weathered wood, preserving its patina and gentle wear. The carved cross in the center is original to the pew, a quiet reminder of the sacred energy this wood still carries.
Above the flowers is a hand-lettered quote by Mother Teresa:
“Do small things with great love.”
A meaningful message, made even more powerful by the history behind it.
This piece is perfect for anyone who cherishes Southern heritage, faith, and the beauty of repurposed materials with soul.
