Begin with Beauty: Catholic Picture Study Series Featuring Fra Angelico, Giotto, Botticelli, and Other Master Artists
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Welcome to a place where we begin with beauty.
If you’ve ever wondered how to introduce sacred art to your children in a meaningful and manageable way, this Catholic Picture Study Series is for you. Whether you're a homeschooling parent, a catechist, or simply a lover of beauty and truth, this series was created to help you lead your children into deeper faith and wonder—one masterpiece at a time.
This series begins with three of the most beloved painters of the early Renaissance: Fra Angelico, Giotto di Bondone, and Sandro Botticelli—each one offering a unique glimpse into the sacred through brush, color, and story.
And this is only the beginning.
Why Begin with Beauty?
In our fast-paced, screen-heavy world, children deeply need quiet encounters with beauty. Art becomes a way to pause, to notice, and to wonder—and in that stillness, we begin to see the face of God.
Through picture study, your children can:
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Meditate on Gospel stories in visual form
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Encounter expressions of Christian virtue and sacrifice
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Learn how beauty and truth work together
Develop observation, narration, and contemplation skills
You don’t need to be an art historian or a trained educator. You only need a heart ready to see.
How This Series Works
Each picture study unit includes:
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4 carefully chosen artworks from a single artist
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Public domain, high-resolution download links
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A short description with historical and spiritual context
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Ideas for reflection, narration, and creative follow-up
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Optional cross-curricular extension for Grades 3–6
This series is gentle, flexible, and family-friendly—no prep overwhelm.
Meet the First Three Artists
Fra Angelico
A Dominican friar whose humility and holiness shaped every brushstroke. His luminous depictions of the Annunciation, the Visitation, and other sacred scenes radiate peace and reverence.
👉 Start Fra Angelico's Picture Study
Giotto di Bondone
The father of Western painting, Giotto's frescoes broke away from stiff medieval forms to show true human emotion. His works invite children to feel the sorrow of Christ’s Passion and the awe of the Nativity.
👉 Start Giotto’s Picture Study
Leonardo da Vinci
A genius of both science and art, Leonardo's religious paintings blend awe, mystery, and beauty. His masterpieces, like the Virgin of the Rocks and the Adoration of the Magi, draw children into deeper reflection.
What Comes Next?
In the coming months , we’ll explore more Catholic-friendly artists such as:
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Sandro Botticelli
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Michelangelo Buonarroti
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Raphael
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J.M.W. Turner
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John Constable
Each new post will build on the same rhythm: observe, reflect, and respond—all through the lens of Catholic faith.
Go Deeper: Catholic Picture Study Curriculum for Grades 3–6
When your family is ready to build a habit of sacred art appreciation, explore the Catholic Picture Study Curriculum for Grades 3–6:
✔️ 10-week plan featuring 7 master artists
✔️ Printable study guides and response sheets
✔️ Catholic-centered narration and reflection prompts
✔️ Gentle Charlotte Mason-inspired approach
🔗 Explore the curriculum on the blog
🔗 Shop the full set on Teacher Weena
Free Bonus: Wonder & Wisdom Thinking Routines
Want a simple way to spark reflection and deepen discussion?
Wonder & Wisdom is a free printable that helps children look closely, wonder deeply, and respond meaningfully to each artwork.
🔗 Download the free Wonder & Wisdom routines
Delivered to your Inbox
Sign up today to receive Catholic Picture Study Lessons delivered to your inbox each week! Discover beauty of art and enhance your appreciation with our carefully curated lessons designed for all ages. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enrich your learning experience. Join us now!
May beauty be the beginning of prayer in your home.
And may each painting open your family’s heart to the grace of God.
With joy,
Weena
Founder, Everything Is Grace
📍 everythingisgodsgift.blogspot.com
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