World Art Day
Celebrating Creativity and the SNJM Legacy
Proclaimed by UNESCO in 2019, World Art Day, celebrated on April 15, aims to promote the development, sharing, and accessibility of the arts in all societies. This day highlights the essential role of art in our lives—bringing people together, inspiring, soothing, and encouraging self-expression.
As UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay has emphasized, art has a unique ability to unite and heal, especially in times of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Today more than ever, the arts and culture continue to play a vital role in individual and collective well-being.
SNJM: A Strong Educational Tradition Rooted in the Arts
This vision closely reflects that of Mother Marie-Rose, founder of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). As early as 1843, the pioneers placed the teaching of the arts at the heart of their educational mission.
Over time, the SNJM introduced young people to a wide range of artistic practices, including:
• music
• painting and visual arts
• sculpture
• calligraphy
• porcelain painting
Close-up of a wax sculpture created by Mother Marie-Agnès in the 19th century.
Some of these artistic traditions were enriched by remarkable figures such as Mother Marie-Agnès (Mélodie Dufresne), recognized for her artistic talents. She created numerous liturgical objects and was also skilled in wax sculpture.
For the SNJM, learning the arts goes beyond technical practice—it is a way to nurture creativity, build self-confidence, and foster openness to beauty and cultural diversity.
Art as a Path to Inclusive Education
In this spirit, UNESCO encourages the promotion of arts education in schools, highlighting how culture can support inclusive and equitable learning.
Concrete initiatives continue to demonstrate this impact today, notably at the Maison des enfants Marie-Rose (in French only) in Beauharnois, where an SNJM-inspired educational approach helps young people grow and thrive through the arts.
An Invitation to Discover and Celebrate the Arts
World Art Day is also an invitation to take part in the many cultural activities available to the public, such as exhibitions, performances, theatre, museum visits, and the exploration of heritage sites.
Among these, the St. Lawrence River Shrines also offer opportunities to discover a rich artistic and cultural heritage.
By celebrating this day, everyone is invited to recognize the essential place of art in our lives and to support its transmission to future generations.
Inset photo: porcelain painting
Sculpture by Sr. Paula Turnbull.