Alumni Women’s Luncheon Celebrates Art and Community

Marist alumni from a wide range of graduation years, dating back to some of the first female Marist graduates from the late 1970s, enjoyed walking through Urban Art Collective. The space is home to many talented artists. Luncheon attendees also included representatives from the 35 alumni who are serving as current faculty and staff at Marist as well as members of the 250 Generations families, a group that includes alumni who are current parents. With so much in common, the group enjoyed discussing a wide range of topics about life, art, and Marist School.

Marist’s Director of Alumni Engagement Mrs. Katie Fowler Brown ’06 opened the luncheon with welcoming remarks, followed by a prayer offered by Grace Starling ’12, the Marist Alumni Board co-vice president of the Service and Spirituality Committee. Following a catered lunch from Souper Jenny, Dr. Sarah Carr Evans ’93 facilitated an engaging discussion with Holmes about her time at Marist and the threads throughout her life that tie her to the Marist community and inspire her as she pursues her dreams.

Against a backdrop adorned with artwork from Georgia artists, Evans guided attendees through Holmes’ evolution from a Marist graduate to her early career experiences, her role as a Marist parent of Franklin ’19 and Lily ’21, and her foray into the Atlanta art scene. Throughout her narrative, Holmes highlighted the pivotal support she received from fellow Marist alumni and parents, who were among her first collectors and provided opportunities for her artwork to be showcased. Notably, Jill Owen ’82 owned a flower truck where Holmes would paint flowers, both for practice and to attract potential customers.

Holmes fondly recalled creating pieces commissioned by Marist School for events like the St. Peter Chanel Society Recognition Celebration and Marist Booster Club’s Marist Madness event. Reflecting on her journey, Holmes emphasized the sense of community at Marist, stating, “The people at Marist are what make it such a special place. Everyone looks out for each other. There is an amazing amount of support that I have received through the Marist community.”

Holmes elaborated on the evolution of her work over the years, particularly focusing on her iconic Atlanta skyline collages. She stressed that despite deciding to pursue her passion later in life, she attributed her progress to simply taking the first step. “Quit waiting for things to be perfect,” she advised. “It’s never going to be perfect. Just start.” Naming her studio 3rd Quarter Studio, Holmes encapsulated the notion that the third quarter of life can offer the freedom, inspiration, and enthusiasm necessary to pursue one’s passion.

Evans expanded on this theme, discussing the existential quandary many encounter as they question their life’s purpose. She acknowledged, “A lot of people experience a crisis of consciousness when they wonder, ‘Am I doing what I was brought here to do?’ It’s a moment or period of time—especially for those who are more spiritual in nature—when they realize the Holy Spirit that was whispering to them has gotten louder. It becomes a period of reconciliation. A question of alignment. Is that whisper matching up to what we are doing?” Evans points to Holmes as an example of what can happen when you decide to listen to that inner voice guiding you toward your calling. Recognizing, feeling it, and acting on it, Evans explained, is what allows you to move through it without regret.

“Regret and disappointment,” Evans said, “Those are retrospective. Hope is forward. Always keep moving toward hope. Always start moving toward whatever quarter is in front of you.”

Christy Taylor Holmes ’87 has had a remarkable journey that serves as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passions and embracing the support of a strong community. Her story resonates deeply with the values upheld at Marist School—following God’s calling, fostering connections, and nurturing personal growth. As we reflect on Holmes' experiences and the insightful discussions led by Dr. Sarah Carr Evans ’93, we are grateful for the Marist community that empowers individuals to realize their fullest God-given potential. Through shared experiences, support networks, and a dedication to lifelong learning, Marist alumni continue to inspire and uplift one another.

View photos from the Alumni Women’s Luncheon.