Theology and Religious Education through Art (CT3303C)

Content

This unit will explore how art has been and remains an integral part of the evangelising and catechising mission of the Church. Through art, the unit will explore essential themes of Catholic theology and scripture, such as: the Trinity, Jesus Christ, Mary, the saints, heaven and hell, the Church, the sacraments, sin and evil, suffering and death, virtues and vices, mission and service.

Participants will explore skills and techniques of ‘visual literacy’ through the examination of the elements of art: colour, line, medium, mood, gesture, framing, lighting and symbols. Students will then be invited to unpack the theological and spiritual elements portrayed through art and compare them with the current teachings of the Catholic Church. In each session, students will explore the pedagogical and catechetical application of the arts for their ministry and mission.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

36 points of BA/BN/BS and/or CT or equivalent

Pedagogy

Learners will engage with lectures, workshops, and facilitated peer discussion.

Indicative Bibliography

• Allen, Christopher, ed. A Companion to Australian Art. Wiley Blackwell, 2021.
• Crumlin, Rosemary. Beyond Belief: Modern Art and the Religious Imagination. National Gallery of Victoria, 1998.
• Daily, Eileen. Beyond the Written Word: Exploring Faith through Christian Art. Saint Mary’s Press, 2005.
• Daily, Eileen. Teaching Guide for Beyond the Written Word: Exploring Faith through Christian Art. Saint Mary’s Press, 2005.
• De Rynck, Patrick. How to Read Bible Stories and Myths in Art. Abrams Press, 2008.
• Drury, John. Painting the Word: Christian Pictures and their Meanings. Yale University Press, 2002.
• Exum, J. Cheryl. Art as Biblical Commentary. T&T Clark, 2019.
• Hardeberg, Kristine T. G. Art History for Everyone: Learn About Art in a Fun, Easy, No-Nonsense Way. Ethos Collective, 2023.
• Keneally, Thomas. Australia: The Development of Australian Art. Royal Academy of Arts, 2013.
• O’Kane, M., ed. Imagine the Bible: An Introduction to Biblical Art. SPCK, 2008.

Assessment