Sydney Catholic Schools students have showcased their creative flair and theological understanding as the 2022 Christmas Story Art Exhibition and Competition opened at the University of Notre Dame on Sunday.
Now in its 17th year, the exhibition invites students in Years 5 and 6 to showcase both their artistic talent and their connection to their faith.
This year, thousands of students across Sydney Catholic Schools participated in the competition.
Along with the selected entries from the Dioceses of Bathurst and Wollongong, and Catholic students from government schools, close to 400 artworks were submitted for judging this year, with 23 being awarded prizes.
Students’ artworks on display at the University of Notre Dame
Inspired by the scriptures
Students engaged in the Sydney Religious Education Curriculum and verses from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke to produce artworks and accompanying reflections that spoke to their understanding of the Christmas story.
Alessandra’s ‘Journey to Bethlehem’
St Ambrose Catholic Primary School Concord West student Alessandra, who won the Notre Dame Award for her piece Journey to Bethlehem, said she drew her inspiration from the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2: 1-5).
“It signifies the beginning of our Christian faith with the journey to Bethlehem,” Alessandra said.
“One of the symbols that I have included in my artwork is the Star of Bethlehem in the night sky announcing the coming of Christ to the world.
“I also have Mary carrying flowers which symbolises she is ‘carrying’ the baby Jesus in her womb as she makes her way on a donkey to Bethlehem,” Alessandra added.
