During this one-day workshop, Melbourne artist Christine Sage and spiritual director Val De Brenni explore the tradition of artists as iconographers. Using a template of St Francis of Assisi (or another chosen saint), we will explore through art and poetry how best to create an image that speaks to each of us uniquely.
Please note that it is not necessary to have particular artistic talent to engage in this day, but rather an openness to prayer in its many forms and a willingness to engage in reflection.
Art materials will be provided, but you may bring your own if you wish. There will be a choice of mediums including pencil, water colour, gouache, mixed medium.
This day is suitable for all adults.
It is also approved by CESA as a System Accredited Module for teachers, requiring the submission of a 1500-word reflection paper.
About the Facilitators:
Val De Brenni, a Covenant Josephite, is a trained spiritual director and supervisor. She is the Director of the Spiritual Director Formation Program for the Catholic Archdiocese of Adelaide and a member of the Ignatian Heart Spirituality team. Val has a special interest in the spiritual formation of teachers and leaders in Catholic schools.
Christine Sage has lived in the Macedon Ranges for over 30 years and has exhibited extensively around Victoria as an Artist. She has also had over 30 years of classroom experience as a Senior Art teacher before moving into the realm of Religious Art. In 2009, Chris left the classroom and became a Retreat and Seminar Day facilitator, using Art as the basis for workshops with students and staff across the Catholic Sector. She was employed in several schools as a much sought-after Artist in Residence. In 2013, Chris was commissioned to produce a St Brigid for a school in Victoria, and since then has produced many bronze sculptures installed in numerous schools across Australia. Chris now travels between Melbourne and Adelaide, continuing to build her professional skill set and sharing her skills in workshops where inner landscapes and diverse ways of praying through visual imagery and personal story are explored.