For many Christians, Ash Wednesday signals the beginning of Lent, a six-week period of repentance and self-denial meant to remind the faithful of Jesus’ 40 days of fasting in the desert.

Black crosses will mark the foreheads of many Christians on Feb. 10, signifying the start of the Lenten season. It's all part of Ash Wednesday. Learn more about the religious day, from the ...

Donaghy said the art of the ash on the forehead is a difficult one. "It's not the best medium for an artist to work in," he said. As for inexplicable shapes, "I've had a few," he said.

Ash Wednesday is the first day of the Lenten season, a period of 40-some days focused on spiritual purification and repentance. It is a day of fasting for several denominations of Christian churches.

SOUTHBURY, CT — Lent, the 40-day period of fasting, reflection, and penance for Christians leading up to Easter Sunday, ...

Donaghy said the art of the ash on the forehead is a difficult one. "It's not the best medium for an artist to work in," he said. As for inexplicable shapes, "I've had a few," he said.