Artists’ Camp in Bangalore Promotes Peace Through Christian Art

Bangalore, February 26, 2026 — A three-day Artists’ Camp titled “Spread the Peace Through Paint and Brush” concluded at the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), bringing together 22 Indian Catholic Christian artists to explore peace through sacred artistic expression. The programme, held from February 19 to 21, was organised in collaboration with the Indian Catholic Christian Artists Forum.

The camp was inaugurated by Fr. John Baptist, Director of NBCLC, alongside Fr. Nysson Luka, Assistant Director, and Fr. A. Sahaya Belix, Director of the Art and Heritage Center of the Diocese of Kottar, who served as the resource person for the programme.

In his keynote address, Fr. Belix underscored the significance of art in daily life and its transformative role in peace-building. He encouraged artists to place their creative gifts at the service of the Church’s evangelising mission, presenting art as a medium that fosters harmony and spiritual reflection.

Participants engaged in guided painting sessions centred on themes of peace, faith, and reconciliation. The camp integrated spiritual formation into the creative process through daily celebration of the Holy Eucharist and an art-based Way of the Cross that blended devotion with visual expression.

The artworks produced during the camp were later showcased in a public exhibition inaugurated by Dr. Gnana Patric, former Professor and Head of the Department of Christian Studies at the University of Madras, together with Fr. John Baptist and Mrs. Priya, member of the NBCLC Governing Board. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Patric highlighted the importance of scholarly engagement with Christian art, while Fr. John Baptist reaffirmed that artistic creativity must serve both the Mother Church and parish communities. Mrs. Priya emphasised the enduring value of human creativity, noting that artistic expression transcends technological imitation.

During the exhibition, the “Artistic Luminary” National Award – 2026 was conferred on Manavai Y. Pangiraj, J. Nelson Kennedy, and Fr. A. Sahaya Belix in recognition of their contribution to Christian art. All participating artists received certificates of appreciation.

The camp concluded with a renewed affirmation of art as a powerful expression of faith and a vital instrument for peace in the life of the Church and society.

By Catholic Connect Reporter