Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

In celebration of Catholic Sisters Week, art students from Sacred Heart Academy created comic strips depicting the life and work of Ursuline Sisters of Louisville. The exhibit took place at the Ursuline Motherhouse on Lexington Road, showcasing the students' artistic interpretations of nine deceased sisters who played significant roles in the Ursuline community.

Ursuline Sister Jean Anne Zappa, the congregation’s president, expressed her admiration for the students' work, stating, "I was amazed at how the art students captured not only the life of their particular sister, but the spirit of that sister’s personality and gifts." She further noted the students' ability to convey the nuances of each sister's life and contributions.

The idea for the project came from Emily Jarboe, an art teacher at Sacred Heart, who wanted to merge the sisters' work with art. Reflecting on the project, Jarboe shared, “I was thinking of having the students create a portrait of the sisters... it would be more interesting for the students to research the lives and experiences of the sisters and create a piece telling an aspect of their lives.”

Students involved in the artwork expressed their appreciation for delving into the sisters' legacy. Liz Staley, a sophomore participant, described the experience, saying, “It was quite heartwarming to have touched the sisters’ heart so deeply.”

Catholic Sisters Week, which ran from March 8-14, aims to highlight the spirituality, mission, and community building of women religious. The comic art project served as a creative and meaningful tribute to the Ursuline Sisters, honoring their impactful contributions to both the Ursuline community and the wider society.