Art Education Through Religion is a series of graded textbooks on art and industrial design developed in the late 1920s by Mary Gertrude McMunigle, who was then Director of Art for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. This endeavor was overseen by two priests: Rev. Paul E. Campbell, A.M. LitD, then superintendent of Parochial Schools for the Pittsburgh Diocese, and Rev. Raymond V. Kirk, A.B. PhD, Dean of the College of Education of Duquesne University. Yes, this art curriculum actually has an imprimatur!
Each lesson aims to improve the student's appreciation and skill in art, while at the same time imparting both spiritual and character objectives.
Therefore the use of this series trains not only the eye, but the whole person, including the intellect and will. Students develop artistic knowledge and skill, while cultivating self-control, accuracy, reverence, helpfulness, good manners, and many other useful life skills.
Book Six introduces conventionalization—the adaptation of natural forms into decorative designs and repeating patterns. Students practice this skill using flowers, fruits, and religious symbols, with increasing emphasis on originality, craftsmanship, and ingenuity in designing patterns, props, and costumes.
Lettering and poster design advance to the use of lowercase letters, while drawing instruction expands to include mechanical drawing and more advanced sketching from observation. Art appreciation progresses from Greek to Roman art and architecture. Throughout the lessons, students explore sacramentals, ecclesiastical vestments, symbols of the virtues, and patriotic stories, integrating artistic study with religious and character formation.
**An important note**: though the levels were designed to correspond with grades one through eight, they work best as a system. If a student in the third grade or above begins to use this series for the first time, we recommend that they begin at least one or two levels below their current grade level, and no later than Book Five. Many of the concepts introduced at the upper grade levels may prove frustrating to successfully master without the foundations laid in these earlier grades.
Visit our Religion in Life website for more information on this series and how it forms part of a full curriculum in religion.
8.5" x 11" paperback 48 pages
Save 15% when you purchase the complete Art Education Through Religion collection, including all eight student books and the Teacher's Manual!
For additional picture study, explore Great Pictures and Their Stories, a complementary series of nine graded art appreciation readers that introduces children to great masterpieces through engaging stories.
