St. Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Elementary School, Grade 6 to 8
Mississauga, Ontario
“Journey of Faith”
8’x12’. Acrylic on masonite
The mural depicts various biblical stories that students from all grades would be able to recognize. It also shows several symbols representing their school, as well as the variety of cultures that make up the school population.
The mural’s central image is the representation of the Tree of Life with Mary holding baby Jesus, seated under the tree. St. Bernard of Clairvaux, patron of the school, pays respects to her.
The Sacred Tree, symbol of growth, wisdom, protection and redemption, expands its branches pointing to the biblical passages that students proudly share with each other.
“…It was wonderful to watch the students so engaged in their work. When the mural was completed, it was rather lovely to hear the students point out the parts of the mural that hey had worked on. As part of an end of the year assignment, students were asked to write down three things about the school year they had enjoyed. Many of the students in my class described the painting of the mural as one of their favourite activities, because they were proud to be involved in such a large undertaking that would become a prominent part of the school for years to come.
… I do understand the importance of the arts. The arts programs teach students about creativity, problem-solving, cooperation, and self-discipline. This learning process was evident whenever I observed Lydia working with the students. She has such a gentle-caring manner with the students. She guided them, and directed them, but let them be very creative so that they felt very much part of the process in creating the mural” Aline Egan-Boles, St Bernard of Clairvaux Catholic Elementary School, Gr. 6/7 Teacher, 2008
