Artists’ Camp in Kottar Diocese to Celebrate Faith and Art

NAGERCOIL, Sept 18, 2025: The Diocese of Kottar will host its first major initiative of the newly established Art and Heritage Center — a three-day Artists’ Camp titled “Pilgrims of Hope: A New World in Colours” — from 19 to 21 September at the Kalari Campus, Bishop’s House, Nagercoil, under the leadership of Director Fr. A. Sahaya Belix.

The camp will bring together 20 Catholic Christian artists from across Tamil Nadu to reflect through paintings on themes of hope, faith, and new horizons. Art, long recognised as a channel for spiritual expression in Christian tradition, continues here as a living witness of belief and creativity. The inaugural ceremony on 19 September will be graced by Chief Guest Fr. T. John Rufus, Vicar General, Diocese of Kottar.

On 20 September, the programme will focus on school and college students, offering them opportunities to witness live painting, interact with artists, and explore art materials, folk traditions, career prospects in art, and the personal benefits of creative practice. Historically, the Church has inspired young minds through sacred art, and this initiative seeks to continue that legacy by presenting art as a language of faith and hope for the younger generation.

The camp will conclude on 21 September with a grand exhibition showcasing completed artworks inspired by Christian hope. Just as churches and sacred spaces across centuries have been adorned with colour and form to communicate faith, this exhibition will echo that tradition in a contemporary way. The closing ceremony will feature Chief Guest Fr. T. John Rufus, Vicar General, along with other Guests of Honour.

Through this initiative, the Diocese of Kottar seeks to foster an encounter between faith and art, encouraging the community to journey as “pilgrims of hope” and envision a world renewed in colours of belief, creativity, and cultural richness. This effort underscores how artistic expression, both past and present, continues to be a powerful means of experiencing and sharing faith.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

Download the Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates:

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download