Ezekiel New Congregational Methodist Church is a poignant commissioned oil painting on gesso board that preserves the weathered dignity of a historic structure in Ware County, Georgia. This 12″ × 16″ work was requested by PeeWee Clements of Alma, who learned about Don Yaun through his sister Jeannie Sutton of Hazlehurst (who had previously commissioned a dog portrait). Don appreciates how his work spreads within families and communities—especially in his hometown area, which has been among his strongest supporters.
The reference photo showed the church in a state of significant decay. While Don offered to paint it in its former glory, PeeWee preferred the honest depiction of how it stood in its final years. Sadly, the building later collapsed due to years of decay, roof damage, and a lightning strike. The painting now serves as a lasting record of this once-proud landmark.
Working in oils for this piece allowed Don to slow down and savor the medium’s rich pigment and blending qualities—different from the fast-drying acrylics he’s grown comfortable with, but rewarding in its own way. He focused on capturing the authentic texture of weathered wood, peeling paint, and the quiet melancholy of the scene while still conveying the church’s former architectural character.
A Brief History of Ezekiel New Congregational Methodist Church.
The Ezekiel New Congregational Methodist Church was built in 1899 by Reverend Manning A. Thigpen, a local master builder and pioneer family member. It was constructed in memory of his young son Ezekiel, who died at age 12 in 1889. The congregation itself dates back to around 1874. For over 125 years, the modest wooden Carpenter Gothic-style building with its distinctive steeple served as a central gathering place for worship and community in rural Ware County. It stood as a weathered landmark until it finally collapsed in 2024 after years of decay, roof damage from storms, and a lightning strike.