Monroe, Illinois - Kapotas Sculptures - Lils Acres

We saw a number of religious depictions built by a Greek Orthodox wood carver on his land. It is open to the public on weekends. There are a number of scenes -- the crucifixion, Noah's Ark, birth of Jesus -- as well as a church where one can worship. It contains about 20 sites, and the information noted the owner was still building. It is beautiful. [Georgianna Parisi, 02/03/2006]

George Kapotas has created the most awe inspiring scenery I have ever seen. He gave me a personal tour around his property on his golf cart yesterday. I spent about an hour with him, listening to his stories and why he created the "Life of Jesus." He is a very fascinating person, and his work is truly art! George is a very blessed man and uses his gifts to glorify the Lord. I praise God for George Kapotus! [Debbie Cummins, 07/04/2004]

Outdoor devotional to the story of Jesus. 20+ lifesize wood carved sculptures depicting Jesus' life from the manger, thru the 12 Lost Years, crucifixion and of course resurrection. These pieces are part of a projected 150 piece project. Each takes up to a month @ 14 hours a day to carve. Stunning landscaping enhances the experience as you walk the grounds to explore this chainsaw artist's collection. 5+ acres filled with not only Christian sculptures but whimsical bears and raccoons, indians and totems, are just some of natures forms George Kapotas has recreated with his sculpting genius. Once you regain your composure from witnessing the devotional in the front yard, walk back into the grounds a bit to treat your eyes to the fun going on in the bear's very own garden.

As you stroll throughout the grounds don't be surprised to find armfuls of cubs climbing the trees. George muses that he has probably sculpted over 3,000 bears throughout his career.

Behind the devotional, in a clump of pine trees is an eery set of forms. Black and charred from the arson that hit George's studio just a few short years ago, you will find the remainder of his first attempt with the devotional figures. George Kapotas, originally a Greek granite sculpture, came to America in the early 1990's.

On my visits, George gladly gives the "nickel" tour. This attraction has caused him to set normal visiting hours posted at the beginning of the drive. George has a mailbox at the viewing station for donations. [Lorraine, 05/13/2001]

[RA: August 2006: Reported that the property is for sale.]

George Kapotas is a Greek sculptor. Living in the states, his medium of choice -- granite -- was not as readily available, so he changed to wood. His sculptures are chainsaw carvings. His current project consists of 150 pieces each standing from 8-10 ft. tall. At the driveway you are greeted by two angels and three granite dolphins. The landscape project, upon completion, will tell the story of Jesus -- from the manger to the crucifixion.

George encourages visitors, and proudly shows off his work -- anything from Indian totem poles to bear cubs scurrying up trees. But I must say that the most impressive site for me was coming upon the crucifixion. [Gary Graham and Lorraine Watson-McCulloch, 07/09/2000]