We’ve all heard of people getting messages from beyond – otherworldly spirits, God, the Universe, etc. One such message began in Eureka Springs, Arkansas in 1988 – into the ear of an unlikely barbershop owner and part-time painter.
The story of Velvalee Campbell and her painting, “The Souls of Humanity” is one of miracles and letting go of fear.
It began with an invitation to go to Alaska. The call was so strong, Velvalee closed her business, kissed her husband goodbye, and made the journey north. Staying with a friend, she soon began receiving unseen guidance to paint The Virgin Mary – for humanity. The words repeated over and over, describing the smallest details. Even though she had studied art, her doubts were paralyzing.
“Why me? I can’t paint well enough.” Velvalee cried. Eventually she overcame the fear, completed the painting, and experienced the “first miracle.” As she touched the painting, it came alive. Velvalee said she could feel The Blessed Mother’s warmth, her heartbeat, her breath.
Unconditional love poured through Velvalee, calling on her to spread the message to humanity of choosing love, not fear. No soul can be better than another, and love is the source that leads to harmony and peace, was the message that poured from her 34 years ago.
After returning to Eureka Springs, and following step-by-step guidance, Velvalee and her husband sold some possessions to raise money to produce prints of the painting.
Then, for the first time in 50 years, foreigners entered the Soviet Union, and Velvalee was invited to travel there to share the painting. A well-known celebrity paid for her plane ticket to Moscow, Russia, and Velvalee’s travels behind the Iron Curtain were about to begin.
With poverty and hardship shown on their bodies and tears streaking down their faces, thousands stood in line for hours just for the chance to kiss Velvalee’s palms, hungering for spiritual awakening, and Souls of Humanity delivered. People who came to experience the painting wanted Velvalee to “Ask America to understand us… tell America we love them.”
Ukraine, Germany, England, The Netherlands, Scotland and the United States were next on her tour. Small gatherings in homes and churches grew into large events.
Velvalee returned many times to Eureka Springs. Testimonials claiming miracles poured in from around the world. Everywhere Velvalee toured the painting, lives changed, many claiming they experienced a healing miracle when Velvalee touched the painting’s heart with her left hand with her right hand on the seeker’s forehead.
Was it Souls of Humanity or was it Vel herself who channeled the miracles? Perhaps it was simply the seekers’ beliefs. We may never know. But we do know that millions reported healing experiences. And it all started in Eureka Springs.
Velvalee passed away June 5, 2019, leaving the painting to hang in the home of her daughter, Shelby, in Oklahoma.
In 2022 Steve Beacham, director of the Museum of Eureka Springs Art), was inspired to contact Shelby. Now, The Souls of Humanity painting is hanging in the MESA.
Beginning Saturday, May 10, the public is invited to see the original Souls of Humanity painting by Velvalee Campbell. It is behind plexiglass, as Velvalee insisted that no one touch the painting after her death. Visitors will notice the wear and tear from thousands of miles of travel.
In addition to the original 3’x4’ oil painting, MESA also holds the written treasures that tell Velvalee Campbell’s story of her travels with the painting. Original documents include hand-written testimonials; a contract with Russia; lists of friends who helped facilitate the touring; event programs; and newspaper/magazine articles in English and Russian. A handwritten letter from a desperate Russian mother seeking healing for her ailing child will bring tears. Some of these items will be on display, and two other works by Vel will be displayed.
The exhibit opening takes place May 10 from 5 – 7 p.m. and continues until July 10. Admission is free. The Museum of Eureka Springs Art is located at 44 Kingshighway, Bldg A. Hours are Thursday 10 a.m. – Noon, and Friday and Saturday 1 – 5 p.m.