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 Director of Art for the Diocese of Pittsburgh at the time. This endeavor was overseen by two priests: Rev. Paul E. Campbell, A.M. LitD, who was 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 gain knowledge, self-control, accuracy, reverence, helpfulness and good manners, as well as many other useful life skills.
Book Six delves into conventionalization-the adaptation of objects into design and pattern arrangements. Objects used to practice this skill include flowers, fruits, and religious elements and symbols. Emphasis is placed on originality, craftsmanship, and ingenuity in design patterns, props, costumes, etc. Lettering and poster design techniques explore the creation and use of lowercase letters, and drawing abilities are augmented with instruction in mechanical drawing and further practice in sketching from sight. Art appreciation moves from Greek to Roman art and architecture, and students learn about sacramentals, vestments for higher orders of the Church, natural symbols of virtues, and patriotic stories through their art exercises.
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*An important note
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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, it is recommended that they begin at least one or two levels previous to their current grade level, and not later than level 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.
