RELIGIOUS ART EXHIBITION AND COMPETITION 2015 THE. Christmas story CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

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1 RELIGIOUS ART EXHIBITION AND COMPETITION 2015 THE Christmas story CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 1

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3 RELIGIOUS ART EXHIBITION AND COMPETITION 2015 THE Christmas story Catholic Education Office Sydney 38 Renwick Street, PO Box 217, Leichhardt NSW 2040 T (02) F (02)

4 2006 Madelon Elizabeth Mills 2013 Alyssa Facioni 2010 Hunter Eckford Foreword The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition celebrates its 10th year when it opens on the First Sunday of Advent this year. The Season of Advent is always a time of preparation, where we try, amid the busyness of our lives, to make space within our hearts for the coming of Christ at Christmas. Evident in this collection of beautiful and reflective artworks and written texts is the Advent anticipation and Christmas joy of our young people. We should be very proud of our Year 5 and 6 students in Catholic schools in Sydney, Wollongong and Bathurst, as well as Catholic students in Public Schools, who have participated in this competition and whose work is featured in the exhibition Reece Gair 2012 Hannah Carlon Reading and viewing the fruit of our students reflections on Sacred Scripture regarding Christ s coming, done in the context of their Religious Education classes, I am filled with the same sense of excitement myself as Christmas approaches. God speaks to us in the natural world, but the pinnacle of His communication to us is His Word-made-flesh, Jesus Christ. My prayer is that you will come to a greater awareness of that Word-made-flesh in the liturgy of the Church and in personal conversation with God. The work of our students in this exhibition invites us to ponder more deeply God and the wonders He works in our lives. Thank you to our teachers, parents and others who have helped our young people in this year s competition. I hope those who facilitated the creative and reflective process of our children themselves feel keenly the anticipation of Advent hope and Christmas peace. To you all, I pray that you experience in your homes, schools and parishes that renewal that our celebration of Christ s coming signifies. Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP Archdiocese of Sydney THE 4 Christmas story 2015

5 Foreword It is my great pleasure each year to select the Executive Director s Acquisitive Award alongside the Archbishop s Choice Trophy. Both these artworks are sent to Rome to Domus Australia where they will be exhibited for one year and viewed by hundreds of visitors from all over the world. I hope that you will discover, as I have, the beauty and joy expressed by these young students and open yourselves to the hope-filled message of Christmas. Collectively, these student artists have highlighted the themes of Advent and Christmas. Immerse yourselves in this exhibition and journey with the students from the Annunciation to the Epiphany. The thought-provoking original visions and expressions will challenge you to see this season with new eyes. The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition, now celebrating its tenth year, has sown the seeds in thousands of Catholic students, the message of peace that they will carry in their hearts and minds throughout their school and adult lives. As you gather in prayer as families and friends during this season I hope that you will, in partnership with our inspired teachers, continue to nurture the education in faith of these young students with enthusiasm and love. Dr Dan White Executive Director of Catholic Schools 2009 Olivia Calabio 2011 David Welch 2007 Christine Dang 2014 Deanna Burton CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 5

6 In the young there is, in fact, an immense potential for good and for creative possibility. ST. JOHN PAUL II INTRODUCTION Welcome to the 2015 The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition. As a member of the judging panel I invite teachers, students, parents and educators to be present to the beauty of creativity and self-expression displayed in this exhibition. One of the touching legends that sprang up from the holy memory of St Francis of Assisi is that, one day the saint walked up to a bare almond tree and said to it, Speak to me of God, and the almond tree blossomed. It is an enormous challenge that we have presented our young students with to place a blank sheet of paper or a canvas in front of them and say to the students, Make it speak to me of God. The students in this exhibition have responded through word and image like the almond tree. I invite you all to honour this sharing by taking respectful time to view and read what the students have unfolded for us. Visual thinking, imagery, and imagination are key aspects of creative thinking, artistic productivity, and creative giftedness. This aspect of the artistic process helps our students cultivate ways of being in the world. For our students to be authentically learning they must be taught to see beyond the surface to the multiple dimensions of the world, opening themselves to their unique powers of creative self-expression and bringing birth to new ideas. It is our deeply cherished hope as teachers and facilitators of the creative gifts of our students, that the sheer beauty of our lives and work, like the almond tree, will speak loudly of the world of God. I thank the teachers and catechists who have facilitated this creative and reflective process for thousands of students from years 5 and 6. Considering the hundreds of quality artworks and writings that were judged to make up the list of works chosen for the exhibition, I would like to list some of the important criteria that guided our decision making: Personal expressive style and approach Originality of illustration and depth of personal reflection Relationship of illustration to chosen scripture verse Demonstrated understanding of relevant religious subject matter from the curriculum Consistency of style throughout the whole artwork Standards of skills and techniques Appropriate surface for the chosen media Those of you who are beginning this journey of self-discovery and expression with your students should always be prepared to employ strategies that release the inner mystic and artist lying dormant in every child. Experience of the children s art and writing in this exhibition invites a spiritual, artistic, historical, cultural and intellectual response. Take time to read both the visual and written literacy of these students. It expresses their personal, artistic and religious understanding of the light-filled story of Christmas. Art-making goes beyond technical processes, because the students employ the qualities of creativity, self-expression, and communication to express the highest aspirations of the human spirit. THE 6 Christmas story 2015 ELLIOT EISNER John Charadia Education Officer : Gifted Education, Creativity and Critical Thinking Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong

7 As we enjoy the privilege of prayerfully pondering the artworks created by our students for this competition, may our response echo this passage from St Luke s Gospel: I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth for although you have hidden these things from the wise and learned you have revealed them to the childlike. (LUKE 10:21) Through this competition, our students have been challenged to engage more deeply with the Advent and Christmas scriptures through the creative process. It is evident to all who view them how successfully they have done so. We are all enriched by their achievements and congratulate our students, their teachers and mentors on the quality and diversity of their artworks. As we anticipate Christ s coming to us as a humble child this Christmas, may we be moved to embrace his gospel with simple, child-like faith faith that is profound in its clarity of insight and vision. May our contemplation of these artworks act as the catalyst for this to occur. Jenny Allen Executive Director of Schools Diocese of Bathurst Art is a unique medium, one that allows the artist and the viewer a deeply personal and spiritual framework to enhance our religious understandings. Religion and Art have been closely connected throughout history. Images and icons have engaged the imagination and helped provide a fully human and personal revelation of the fundamental question we ask about our lives and our search for meaning. This rich history of the arts as an expression of our Catholic faith is critical in sharing our experiences of God in our world and in the scriptures. In this context, art is not only inspired by awe and imagination, it is a way for all of us to reflect on the integral message of the Christmas story God coming into being with us, in human form, as a small and vulnerable infant the Word made flesh. I commend each and every piece in the exhibition to you, and encourage you to take time to view and enjoy the artworks, as well as read the personal reflections the students have written. Their words, when read alongside their beautiful images, speak of their own unique encounter with their God and will speak to you of the simple joy and hope-filled message of the Christmas story. Peter Turner Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong Once again our artistic students have demonstrated their engagement with Sacred Scripture and the Catholic Tradition in a creative way. The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition has not only become a feature of the annual calendar of Sydney Catholic Schools, it also showcases the creative talents of our young people. Art has long been the medium through which one communicates both beauty and truth, and for this the students are to be commended for their work. Anthony Cleary Director, Religious Education and Evangelisation The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition is a special reminder that everyone from the very old to the very young keenly appreciates the true meaning of Christmas. The Catholic Weekly is proud to continue our support of the exhibition and again we look forward to sharing the beautiful, inspiring and original artworks created by students with our readers. This year again we acknowledge the talents and insights of the two students whose artworks have been judged to best express the meaning of journey that is integral to the Christmas story. We are delighted to support this project, an initiative of the CEO, which encourages the students creative and artistic expressions of this wonderful season. Peter Rosengren Editor, The Catholic Weekly School Club is an Australian family owned business and we are proud to continue our support and association with The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition in Christmas is strongly associated with family life, religious practice, joy and celebration. Our School Club Encouragement Award each year is given to an artwork of artistic quality and meaning selected from the Catholic children s work from Public Schools. We admire the dedication of volunteer Catechists that give up their time to educate these students. The artist I have chosen this year has created a fine pencil drawing delicate in its expression. The artwork reminds us of two dimensions of the Christmas season. This is both the joy and excitement of celebration with family and the sacred moment of the beginning of Christianity. Congratulations to Grace Ho from Earlwood Public School, Year 6 for her artwork The Birth of Hope. Gary McManus School Club Manager CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 7

8 Archbishop s Choice Award My artwork shows how tenderly Joseph took care of baby Jesus while Mary was resting. This picture goes completely against the stereotype of mothers taking care of their children. It shows that Mary and Joseph both played an important role as parents. My artwork was based upon the strong message of scripture in Matthew 2 Jesus was Born in Bethlehem. I drew inspiration from an unknown artist s work,which was given to my family by our parish priest when I was baptised. This picture inspired me when I discovered how it came to be in my home. I also made a strong connection to the journey made by Mary and Joseph mentioned in the scripture, as my parents also moved to a new land; travelling from India to Australia. For both families, this was a new start for everyone and a big decision to make as it meant leaving their families behind. I chose an Indian art technique called nib painting. My grandmother taught this technique to my mother, who in turn, taught this to me. It represents all the hard work put into making this journey a success. Each little nib, shows each step taken to create this wonderful journey, not only by Mary and Joseph, but also by my own mother and father. A Father s Love ZOYA HUANG St John the Evangelist Catholic Primary Campbelltown THE 8 Christmas story 2015

9 JOINT WINNERS The Saviour s Star DANIELLE SCANLON St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla My artwork shows our Blessed Virgin Mary holding the newborn baby Jesus in her arms. Within my image I incorporated the three Magi who are being guided by The Saviour s Star. My image is based on the scripture Matthew 2:1-12, The Visit of the Wise Men. In this scripture, Herod attempts to trick the Wise Men by saying Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, so I may also go and pay him homage After this event the Magi had a dream that told them not to trust Herod and that he was lying, as he was to kill the Saviour. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 9

10 First Prize YEAR 5 The Journey CATHERINE KOS St John Bosco Catholic Primary Engadine My artwork is based on the journey of the three wise men. The three men grew in wisdom and faith whilst on their journey following the bright star. The luminous star helped them recognise Jesus as the King in the stable. It is a journey the shepherds took before them and one we all make. The star is the main focus within my artwork as it guided the men on their journey. Jesus is also the light of the world and I like to think of the star as His first crown. The concept for my painting was based on the artisitc techniques of Julie Vivas and Giuliano Ferri. I wanted to represent the desert within my painting as well as the mountains and farms that these wise men would experience on this incredibly special journey. THE 10 Christmas story 2015

11 Second Prize YEAR 5 The Offering of Gifts LARA NERO St Mark s Catholic Primary Drummoyne Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and we have come to worship Him. My artwork illustrates a very significant story. It depicts the moment when the three wise men bow down to Jesus with their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.the gifts were made the centrepiece of my artwork to show their importance and value. The gifts themselves, whilst unusual, signified great things. Gold marked that Jesus is the King of Kings. Frankincense showed that people would worship Jesus and myrrh forewarned that Jesus would suffer and die. I chose to use vibrant colours, textures and patterns in the clothing of the three wise men to signifiy the celebratory nature of the event. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 11

12 Third Prize YEAR 5 A King is Born MAEVE KEANE St John Bosco Catholic Primary Engadine My artwork represents the birth of Jesus and the visit of the Magi. In my painting Joseph stands behind Mary as she cradles her newborn son. By placing Joseph in this position I am showing his decision to take Mary as his wife after an angel of the Lord appeared to him. Behind Joseph are the Magi. They followed the star, seen in the centre of my painting, which they had seen in the East and it led them to Bethlehem where the baby Jesus, King of the Jews, had been born. They brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh and worshipped the newborn king. Through my art, I can show the world what I know and understand of, as well as how I feel about, the Christmas story. My choice of watercolours allowed me to create a washed effect as though the painting was painted at the time of Jesus birth. THE 12 Christmas story 2015

13 Highly Commended YEAR 5 The Birth of Jesus PARIS BERTRAM St Christopher s Catholic Primary Holsworthy This Nativity scene shows the story of how Jesus was born. It shows the journey to Bethlehem, the inns with no vacancy, the stable and manger, the Star of Bethlehem, and the gifts from the three wise men. I chose tapestry as my medium. I incorporated a variety of stitches to produce the picture. I used long stitch, short stitch and diagonal stitch. The Star of Bethlehem leads to baby Jesus. It is bright and shines its light on the Holy Family. The richer colours are used to show the three wise men. The light and duller colours are used for Mary and Joseph because they are humble people. The houses on the sides of the picture are inns. I stacked them so they would form the front posts of the stable. The small stars in the sky give a sense of distance. I used old fence palings from our outdoor oven to represent what the manger and the stable woodwork would look like back then. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 13

14 Highly Commended YEAR 5 The Gifts of Advent AMELIA DREW All Hallows Catholic Primary School Gulgong My artwork shows the gentleness of the Magi as they arrived in Bethlehem after travelling through the night. They came out of the darkness and are peaceful and calm after their long journey following the star. Even though they appear still, they must have been filled with excitement. I wonder what they were thinking they would find under the star that they followed? The Magi are wearing clothes made from beautiful fabrics in colours of pink, red and green, but they look humble before Jesus. In religious paintings from three to five hundred years ago, artists painted people wearing expensive fabrics to show how important they were. I like the way artists like Leonardo and Rembrandt made the background look mysterious. The background in my painting is a mysterious purple colour. Purple is the colour the Church uses to symbolise Advent. Advent is the four weeks before Christmas and a time when the Church gets ready to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The altar is dressed in purple cloths, the priest wears purple vestments and we light three purple candles in the Advent wreath. When early morning begins, the night sky looks purple, and so, the three men are walking out of the darkness of the night into the morning light. Jesus is lighting a new way for the Magi who chose to give gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus, instead of following King Herod s directions. THE 14 Christmas story 2015

15 Highly Commended YEAR 5 I chose this particular scripture passage because it inspires my Christian life. I believe that Jesus is our king, yet He was born and lived His life just like us. Christmas is an important season to my family as we remember how special He is to our faith. In my painting I depicted the Holy Family, and the shepherds as they approached the stable. In the distance the three wise men journey towards Bethlehem, following the star. To create my artwork I used watercolour pencils. They give a soft washed colour effect that adds a sacred atmosphere to the scene. They also created a textured effect for the timber and hay roof of the stable. The Birth of Our King DANTE MACHIAVELLO St Christopher s Catholic Primary Panania CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 15

16 Highly Commended YEAR 5 Journey to Bethlehem JONTAE NOURRY St Kevin s Catholic Primary Eastwood There is a star that will lead us to you. Lead us to you. Here in the dark, we are searching for you. Searching for you. As I paint, I reflect upon you, my Lord. Mary and Joseph journey to you, sweet Jesus. As I paint, I come to you. I journey with them and I take my viewers along with me. The light guides me. Bright as the star shines into my heart and each paint stroke etches each step taken by us all. So to those who view my work, allow me to guide you to Jesus... allow Mary and Joseph to lead you to Jesus, the light of the world, our one true star. THE 16 Christmas story 2015

17 First Prize YEAR 6 A Different Perspective RHYS GARDINER St Michael s Catholic Primary Mittagong My artwork depicts the unexpected appearance of the Magi through baby Jesus eyes. A spin on a familiar story, the main scene is supposed to be a freeze-frame moment where a wise man is offering gold as a gift to the newborn baby Jesus. People say that when babies are born they have no idea where they are, nor can they see. But, obviously, Jesus was no ordinary baby. He may have understood the meaning of the Magi s presence. I tried to add valid detail into what Jesus is seeing, such as bags under Mary and Joseph s eyes (due to their long journey), the manger and stable being made from ramshackled wood, the star the Magi followed above the stable; and even the inn where Mary and Joseph go to seek shelter. Another detail I wanted to add was plain, brown colours on Joseph s clothes, in contrast to the vibrant colours on the more expensive clothes of the wise men. I want to challenge viewers to try and imagine themselves as Jesus. How would you take it all in? How would you feel if you were given gifts and you were told you would be Saviour of your people? To me, depicting Jesus point of view in my picture helps viewers visualise themselves as Jesus, and also adds depth to the well-known story. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 17

18 Second Prize YEAR 6 They Who Saw the Light JADYN BERHARDT St Clare s Catholic Primary Narellan Vale THE 18 Christmas story 2015 My artwork is based on The Visit of the Magi (Matthew 2:9-12) and the medium I used for my artwork was acrylic paints. It captures and focuses on the Magi themselves, for it was they who saw the light. I used bold, bright and rich colours for their clothing to represent royalty and I painted the scene where baby Jesus receives the three spiritually symbolic gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. These gifts signify his royalty as King of the Jews and Lord of Lords; His divinity and priestly role; His humanity, death and burial and also show Jesus as King, God and Man. Since Mary and Joseph were lowly and humble people, I made the stable very simple and small by incorporating different shades and tones of browns and yellows. I was really inspired by the way Van Gogh created different textures for the sky and scenery in his famous masterpiece, The Starry Night. I used that technique to symbolise the journey of the star. I wanted to express joy, wonder and awe, which inspired me in this artwork. The passage The Visit of the Magi tells of a great time of happiness, celebration and a significant journey, which resulted in the rejoicing of God s only Son, Jesus Christ.

19 Third Prize YEAR 6 Archbishop s Choice Award The Saviour s Star DANIELLE SCANLON St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla My artwork shows our Blessed Virgin Mary holding the newborn baby Jesus in her arms. Within my image I incorporated the three Magi who are being guided by The Saviour s Star. My image is based on the scripture Matthew 2:1-12, The Visit of the Wise Men. In this scripture, Herod attempts to trick the Wise Men by saying Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, so I may also go and pay him homage After this event the Magi had a dream that told them not to trust Herod and that he was lying, as he was to kill the Saviour. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 19

20 Highly Commended YEAR 6 A Holy Night RAPHAEL CHO St Kevin s Catholic Primary Eastwood The artwork that I made is a re-creation of the birth of Jesus Christ. I created this artwork with wires, paddle pop sticks, glue, acrylic and oil paint. I chose Matthew 1:18-25 because in this passage Jesus is the light of hope and peace, and his birth is one of the most important events for humanity. THE 20 Christmas story 2015

21 Highly Commended YEAR 6 Mary s Yes GEORGE HATEM St Catherine Labouré Catholic Primary Gymea I chose to paint the Annunciation (Luke 1:26-36) because it represents a fundamental phase in the history of Christianity. The angel Gabriel delivering a message from God and Mary s Yes, are two extraordinary events that changed humanity. The materials used are canvas, pencils for sketching, acrylic paints and water colours. The angel Gabriel is represented in glory and magnificence. Mary is kneeling, hand crossed on her chest, eyes closed and listening. She is the praying person who in prayer and contemplation is able to listen to God s word and to respond accordingly. The green cloth with the Torah resting on top represents a vibrant and meaningful continuity from the Old Testament brought by the glorious news. It s a new life for Mary and Joseph and eventually for all. Like Mary, we are invited to accept God s grace in our lives and be part of His heavenly plans. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 21

22 Highly Commended YEAR 6 When the Messenger Arrives BONNIE HUTCHISON Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary Caringbah My artwork depicts the Annunciation in Luke 1: In this passage, Mary receives the good news about being gifted with the Son of God. In this artwork, I used only watercolour pencils to add more depth and emotion into the artwork. It is similar to my previous artwork from The angel Gabriel s wings are decorated with butterfly wings, which symbolise new life and hope. The angel Gabriel, possesses a branch with white lilies to symbolise the Virgin Mary s purity. In the stained glass window, God is looking down on the decision that Mary makes. Within the glass, the word yes is starting to form. Within the bookcase the book titles start to translate into events in Jesus and Mary s lives. Underneath the bed is a scorpion which symbolises the coming of King Herod and his hatred for Jesus. 22 THE Christmas story 2015

23 Highly Commended YEAR 6 My artwork is based on graffiti because it tells a story with pictures and words. My passage is the Escape to Egypt from Matthew 2:13-15 which is about Mary, Joseph and Jesus fleeing to Egypt because King Herod decided to kill all the first-born males. This word escape stands out for me. I decided on graffiti art because it would be unique and different. I used coloured pencils on cardboard and incorporated significant words hidden in the graffiti pattern. I used modelling paste for rough road on which the Holy Family is travelling on as well as for the appearance of the pyramids. This scripture passage reminds me of someone who is trying to run or hide from someone else who is harming or threathening them. The artist who has influenced me the most is a graffiti artist known as Banksy. I find his work amazing and inspirational. The Great Escape ELLA O ROURKE St Columbkille s Catholic Primary Corrimal CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 23

24 Highly Commended YEAR 6 Journey of Faith EMMA PICTHALL St Bernard s Catholic Primary Botany My artwork has been influenced by the scripture Matthew 2:9-12, The Visit of the Magi. My design was created using muted colours of blue and white symbolising new life and hope for the future. The artwork is called Journey of Faith because, to me, the star is my way of interpreting life. I see the Christmas Star as a symbol of God and his promise to us. The glow represents the way of following and doing what God wants of us. The shadow of the Magi spells out the word yes, signifying the Annunciation when Mary accepted God s call to become Jesus mother. The scripture reading next to the star sums up my whole artwork; it was what inspired me. THE 24 Christmas story 2015

25 Executive Director s Acquisitive Award YEAR 5 The Birth of Jesus PARIS BERTRAM St Christopher s Catholic Primary School Holsworthy This Nativity scene shows the story of how Jesus was born. It shows the journey to Bethlehem, the inns with no vacancy, the stable and manger, the Star of Bethlehem, and the gifts from the three wise men. I chose tapestry as my medium. I incorporated a variety of stitches to produce the picture. I used long stitch, short stitch and diagonal stitch. The Star of Bethlehem leads to baby Jesus. It is bright and shines its light on the Holy Family. The richer colours are used to show the three wise men. The light and duller colours are used for Mary and Joseph because they are humble people. The houses on the sides of the picture are inns. I stacked them so they would form the front posts of the stable. The small stars in the sky give a sense of distance. I used old fence palings from our outdoor oven to represent what the manger and the stable woodwork would look like back then. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 25

26 Spirit of Christmas Award YEAR 5 The Beginning JOSIE KEARNEY St Joseph s Catholic Primary Blayney My artwork is inspired by the scripture passage Matthew 1:18-2:12. I was intrigued at the beginning of this passage when Joseph accepted God s will to take Mary as his wife. I wonder how he must have felt knowing that, of all the women throughout time, his Mary was chosen to be the mother of God s Son. In my artwork, I have painted Mary amongst the many faces of other women of the world to show her place in history. Mary has given us the most precious gift of God s Son. I ve combined the forms of Mary and the Holy Spirit to signify the close relationship Mary had with the Holy Spirit and how God had chosen Mary to be born without sin and enable her to be our mother also. THE 26 Christmas story 2015

27 Spirit of Christmas Highly Commended YEAR 6 Embracing News TRACIE DUONG Sacred Heart Catholic Primary Cabramatta I chose the Annunciation story from the book of Luke. It is about a very young girl named Mary, who experienced an angel appearing from nowhere. The angel told her that she was going to give birth to our Saviour. This artwork has three parts to it. The first and main focus is the angel with his magnificent wings. The wings are like Mary, soft and gentle, yet humble and compassionate. The different colours in the wings are symbolic of the big change in Mary s life; turning from a little duckling to a beautiful swan. The second part of this artwork is the body of Mary. She wasn t wearing bright clothes as she was never boastful. The shadow is painted very black because the brighter the light, the darker the shadow. This relates to Mary because even when there are good-hearted people, there are still people who need to change; to step away from the darkness. Mary had the power to either change the world with the baby in her womb or not. The background is very dark because the angel Gabriel came out of nowhere. The orange represents Mary being a hope to the world. I look up to Mary because she was afraid and confused, yet she was loyal to God and embraced the news. She, who was a nobody, changed the world and that is why she inspires us all. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 27

28 Artistic Achievement Award YEAR 6 The Birth of Jesus and the Visit of the Magi ELIZABETH SMITH Holy Spirit Catholic Primary North Ryde Initially, my teacher showed me famous artworks, I particularly liked one which was a mosaic. I wanted my artwork to be colourful to reflect the joyous celebration of Jesus birth. My artwork is entitled A New Dawn as the birth of Jesus is a new beginning and a new religious testament. When Mary gave birth to her son, and Joseph named him Jesus, a bright star was shining in the sky which was guiding the Magi to the stable where the baby Jesus lay. The Magi brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to be presented to the Messiah. Jesus is the light of the world; because He will save His people from their sins. My mosaic artwork reminds me of a stained glass window you might see in a church. THE 28 Christmas story 2015

29 School Club Encouragement Award YEAR 6 The Birth of Hope GRACE HO Earlwood Public School Earlwood My artwork is based on Luke 1:26-36 and Matthew 1: I have shown Mary with tears of happiness to show her gratitude and joy after hearing the angel Gabriel s message from God. Joseph was worried about this news before he heard God s message. I showed Joseph with a smile as well, showing his acceptance of taking Mary as his wife and giving birth to Jesus. I also included a silhoutte of Mary and the baby Jesus with the three gifts from the wise men before them. Jesus, our Lord, is in the background because this is who the baby would grow to be. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 29

30 Catholic Weekly Award YEAR 5 Journey to the Star DARBY TURNER St Columbkille s Catholic Primary Corrimal My artwork is a picture of the story of the journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, made by the three wise men delivering their gifts to the baby Jesus. This reflects the scripture passage, Matthew 2:1-12. My painting shows that the Magi have been sent by King Herod to find the baby Jesus and report back to him, where Christ has been born. I have painted a background of a large dark blue night sky featuring the Star of Bethlehem shining out to the world. The star is above the manger where baby Jesus was born to Mary. Each of the wise men carry a gift for our Saviour. The gifts are gold, myrrh and frankincense. My canvas needed to set at night so the star could shine brightly in the night sky above the manger. My artwork uses different materials including modelling paste for the road and desert to show that it was a rocky journey to the manger; sand for the camels; wooden matchsticks for the manger; glitz products for the Star of Bethlehem so it would stand out; fabric for the camels and the Magi; and a variety of paint colours. I used many different techniques including blending of paints, different brush types, palette knives, sponge brushes, and glueing different materials on to the canvas. I used these techniques to create texture in my artwork and they were inspired by artists such as Pro Hart and Leonardo da Vinci. The painting reminds me of my journey through life. It also reminds me of how some people move from the darkness to the light. The city is the starting point and the star symbolising the goal. But most of all, it reminds me of when my family moved from Jindera to Wollongong. We used to travel up to Wollongong at night and I can remember seeing the stars reflect off the ocean as we drove up over Mount Ousley. My dad used to tell me that the star was my Pop in heaven looking after us as we travelled on our journey. This is just the same as Jesus looking down on us as we travel through life on earth. He provides the light to guide us through the darkness. THE 30 Christmas story 2015

31 Catholic Weekly Award YEAR 6 The Long Journey JAMISON AULD St John s Catholic Primary Dubbo My Christmas art piece reflects the scripture passage The Flight to Egypt. My art creation illustrates Mary, Joseph and Jesus fleeing Bethlehem on a donkey to Egypt, escaping King Herod. The pyramids I have drawn in the background represent the journey to Egypt. I have used the Italian art technique of sgraffito or scraping throughout my art piece to emphasise the struggle for Mary, Joseph and Jesus travelling through the hot, dry, desert. I used the effect of gold glitter on the doorway to highlight where Mary, Joseph and Jesus were travelling to, Egypt. The gold doorway represents the direction to freedom. I drew the windy, worn-out road in a lighter shade of yellow, highlighting that others had made the same long, tiring journey. I used oil pastel as my main art medium. I like how I can draw and blend different colours together to create a much softer picture. CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 31

32 2015 Exhibitors In 2015, over 900 entries for The Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition were received from Years 5 and 6 students from the Archdiocese of Sydney, the Dioceses of Wollongong and Bathurst, and from Catholic students in state schools. Congratulations to the following 88 finalists whose artwork was selected for this year s exhibition. 32

33 1. The Escape from King Herod JAMES ALCHIKH Year 6, St Joseph the Worker Catholic Primary Auburn South 2. Journey to Bethlehem LOUISE AN Year 5, Ermington Public Ermington 3. The Long Journey JAMISON AULD Year 6, St John s Catholic Primary Dubbo 4. A Glimpse of the King PIP AUSTIN Year 5, St Raphael s Catholic Primary Cowra 5. The Good News of Joy JAMES BEGG Year 5, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Sutherland 6. The Flight to Egypt ELEN BELSEN & ALUSA GREYZE Year 6, St Therese s Catholic Primary Padstow 7. The Joyful Mystery ALBIN BENOY Year 6, Carlton Public School Carlton 8. They Who Saw the Light JADYN BERHARDT Year 6, St Clare s Catholic Primary School Narellan Vale 9. The Birth of Jesus PARIS BERTRAM Year 5, St Christopher s Catholic Primary Holsworthy CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 33

34 10. Mary s Vibrance INDIANA BROWN Year 6, Holy Family Catholic Primary Menai 11. Christmas Then and Now KODY BURGE Year 6, Marton Public Engadine 12. The Magi Arrive BELLA BUTLER Year 4, St Joseph s Catholic Primary Molong 13. Jesus is the Chosen One CLAUDIA CEBALLOS Year 6, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Kogarah 14. Christ the Redeemer ANNELIESE CHAINA-AZHR Year 6, Clemton Park Public Clemton Park 15. Peace and Acceptance KATE CHEUN Year 6, St Francis de Sales Catholic Primary Woolooware 16. A Holy Night RAPHAEL CHO Year 6, St Kevin s Catholic Primary Eastwood THE 34 Christmas story Love is in the Air XAVIER DE DOMENICO Year 6, St Catherine Labouré Catholic Primary Gymea 18. Love, Peace, Hope, Faith and Joy LUCY DE SOUZA Year 5, St Francis de Sales Catholic Primary Woolooware

35 19. The Angel s Visit ISABELLA DIAZ Year 5, St Mary s Star of the Sea Catholic Primary Hurstville 20. The Gifts of Advent AMELIA DREW Year 5, All Hallows Catholic Primary Gulgong 21. Embracing News TRACIE DUONG Year 6, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary Cabramatta 22. The Birth of Our Saviour CAITLIN FITZPATRICK Year 5, Baldface Public Blakehurst 23. The Test of Courage JENNESSA FONG Year 6, St Mary s Star of the Sea Catholic Primary Hurstville 24. The Gift Bearers ZAC GABOR Year 5, Holy Family Catholic Primary Menai 25. A Different Perspective RHYS GARDINER Year 6, St Michael s Catholic Primary Mittagong 26. Labour of Love ANNELIESE GERMANN Year 6, Holy Spirit Catholic Primary Carnes Hill 27. Above All SOPHIE GILLAN Year 6, St Francis de Sales Catholic Primary Woolooware CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 35

36 28. Ornithogalum Lanceolatum (Bethlehem Star) AIDEN GRECO Year 6, Holy Family Catholic Primary Menai 29. Journey to Jesus MAYA GRIBBLE Year 5, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary Caringbah 30. A Journey Under the Stars ALEXIA GULLI Year 5, St Mark s Catholic Primary Drummoyne 31. Come and Adore Him ANNABELLE HARRINGTON Year 5, St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla 32. Mary s Yes GEORGE HATEM Year 6, St Catherine Labouré Catholic Primary Gymea 33. A Journey of Faith ALANA HATHEIER Year 6, St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla 34. The Birth of Hope GRACE HO Year 6, Earlwood Public Earlwood THE 36 Christmas story Mother Mary in Awe MATTHEW HOUGHTON Year 6, St Mary s Catholic Primary Orange 36. A Father s Love ZOYA HUANG Year 6, St John the Evangelist Catholic Primary Campbelltown

37 37. When the Messenger Arrives BONNIE HUTCHISON Year 6, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary Caringbah 38. Guided by a Star JERALD JOSEPH Year 5, Holsworthy Public Holsworthy 39. A King is Born MAEVE KEANE Year 5, St John Bosco Catholic Primary Engadine 40. The Beginning JOSIE KEARNEY Year 5, St Joseph s Catholic Primary Blayney 41. A Blanket of Dreams LILY KING Year 6, St Columbkille s Catholic Primary Corrimal 42. The Journey CATHERINE KOS Year 5, St John Bosco Catholic Primary Engadine 43. The Announcement of Our Saviour BIANCA LANZA Year 6, St Mark s Catholic Primary Drummoyne 44. The Annunciation JAYDEN LEE Year 6, St Therese s Catholic Primary Padstow 45. Presents to Jesus Christ NICOLE LEE Year 6, St Martha s Catholic Primary Strathfield CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 37

38 46. The Visit of the Magi ELLA LUCHETTI Year 5, Cathedral Catholic Primary Bathurst 47. The Birth of Our King DANTE MACHIAVELLO Year 5, St Christopher s Catholic Primary Panania 48. The Gift INNASYA MACKENZIE Year 5, St John Bosco Catholic Primary Engadine 49. The Crown of Our King GIACINTA MAESTRELLI Year 5, St Christopher s Catholic Primary Panania 50. The Birth of Jesus and the Visit of the Magi SEAN MAQUIRAN Year 5, St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla 51. The Angel Comes to the Shepherds GEORGIA MAYNE Year 5, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Port Kembla 52. The Night Among the Stars ANNALIZE MOASE Year 6, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Kogarah THE 38 Christmas story The Birth of Jesus and the Visit of the Magi FRANKIE MONAGHAN Year 5, St Michael s Catholic Primary Thirroul 54. In Excelsis Deo MADDISON MORRISSEY Year 5, All Hallows Catholic Primary Gulgong

39 55. The Many Nights Journey KILIN MURPHY Year 6, St Ambrose s Catholic Primary Concord West 56. Mary s Love for God and Us ANEETA NELSON Year 6, Carlton Public School Carlton 57. The Offering of Gifts LARA NERO Year 5, St Mark s Catholic Primary Drummoyne 58. Joseph and Jesus ANGELA NEVMEIZHYTSKA Year 6, Daceyville Public Daceyville 59. The Birth of Jesus FRANCIS NGUYEN Year 6, John the Baptist Catholic Primary Bonnyrigg Heights 60. Lanterns to Light our World LISA NGUYEN Year 6, Sacred Heart Catholic Primary Cabramatta 61. Journey to Bethlehem JONTAE NOURRY Year 5, St Kevin s Catholic Primary School Eastwood 62. The Great Escape ELLA O ROURKE Year 6, St Columbkille s Catholic Primary Corrimal 63. The Journey MARTIN ONG Year 6, St Christopher s Catholic Primary Holsworthy CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 39

40 64. God s Chosen One LILY PAKULA Year 6, St Michael s Catholic Primary Thirroul 65. Lead the Way, My Star MONDIRA PAUL Year 6, Cathedral Catholic Primary Bathurst 66. Night in the Stable ALEXIA PERKOVSKI Year 5, Holy Family Catholic Primary Menai 67. The Good News JACINTA PHAM Year 6, St Christopher s Catholic Primary Panania 68. Journey of Faith EMMA PICTHALL Year 6, St Bernard s Catholic Primary Botany 69. God is with Us EMMA POOLE Year 5, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Sutherland 70. The Holy Moment BRAYE PORTER Year 6, St Mary s Catholic Primary Dubbo THE 40 Christmas story The Darkest Night HARLEN POSTILL Year 6, St Patrick s Catholic Primary Sutherland 72. The Extraordinary Story JERITH JAYARAY LAWRENCE RAS Year 5, Holsworthy Public Holsworthy

41 73. So Close, But So Far Away BIANCA RAY Year 5, St John the Evangelist Catholic Primary Campbelltown 74. The Flight to Egypt MIA RETALLACK Year 6, St Joseph s Catholic Primary Blayney 75. The Angel and the Shepherds CHARLOTTE RUMBLE Year 5, St Michael s Catholic Primary Thirroul 76. Lying with the Messiah HOLLY SARIN Year 6, Nazareth Catholic Primary Shellharbour City 77. The Saviour s Star DANIELLE SCANLON Year 6, St Aloysius Catholic Primary Cronulla 78. What a Surprise CHLOE SMALL Year 5&6, Marton Public Engadine 79. The Birth of Jesus and the Visit of the Magi ELIZABETH SMITH Year 6, Holy Spirit Catholic Primary North Ryde 80. Light of the New King MELANIE STAUNTON Year 5, St Mary s Star of the Sea Catholic Primary Milton 81. Fulfilled with the Courage of a Lion JOSHUA TATTAM Year 6, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary Caringbah CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 41

42 82. Journey to Bethlehem NATASHA TERRY-LLOYD Year 6, Holy Spirit Catholic Primary North Ryde 83. Mary, Mother of Christ ANTHONY TRAN Year 6, St Brendan s Catholic Primary Bankstown Central 84. Enlightened BIANCA TRAN Year 5, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Primary Fairfield 85. Guided by the Bright Light SOTRIANA TROPOULOS Year 6, St Catherine Labouré Catholic Primary Gymea 86. Journey to the Star DARBY TURNER Year 5, St Columbkille s Catholic Primary Corrimal 87. The Chosen One THOMAS WHITEHILL Year 6, Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Primary Caringbah THE 42 Christmas story In the Eyes of the Passer-by HANNAH WILLIAMS Year 6, St Ambrose s Catholic Primary Concord West

43 CELEBRATING 10 YEARS 43

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