A Sacred Calling Across the Tasman

As featured in The Catholic Leader

We’re honoured to share that Damien Walker, founder of the Studio of Saint Philomena, was recently profiled by The Catholic Leader during his visit to Brisbane. The article explores Damien’s unique vocation as a sacred artist and his journey from the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquake to becoming a recognised figure in liturgical art across Australasia.

“The essence of sacred art is timeless,” Damien shares in the piece. “It reaches into tradition, but it must speak to the present.”

The article highlights a recent commission for St Rita’s Church in Victoria Point, Queensland. The parish priest, Fr Ladu Yanga, expressed deep appreciation for the work Damien undertook:

“We were grateful to find Damien to facilitate the creation of a statue of St Rita, our patron saint, as well as a new crucifix for above the altar. Even though he’s based in New Zealand, the process was timely, seamless, and cost-effective.”

The story also offers a behind-the-scenes look at Damien’s process, restoring beloved devotional works, creating original commissions, and navigating the sacred responsibility of producing art that is not only beautiful, but theologically rich and spiritually resonant.

Damien Walker carefully restoring a stained glass window at the Catholic Church of the Holy Passion of Our Lord in Amberley, New Zealand—a testament to his dedication to preserving sacred heritage.

“Sacred art doesn’t belong to the artist—it belongs to the Church,” Damien says. “We are just the hands.”

This kind of recognition affirms the Studio’s mission: to serve the Church through craftsmanship, beauty, and reverence.

Click here to read the full article...