Vatican News Features Studio of Saint Philomena

Global recognition for national artwork commission.

The work of the Studio of Saint Philomena continues to reach international audiences, with Vatican News highlighting our contribution to New Zealand’s national rededication to Our Lady.

Damien Walker in the Studio of Saint Philomena, where the nationally commissioned painting Ko Hāta Maria was created—later featured in Vatican News.

In June 2021, Vatican News reported on the Te Ara o Maria (Mary’s Way) initiative, a project led by the New Zealand Catholic Bishops Conference to renew the country's dedication to Mary, Mother of God, Assumed into Heaven. As part of this initiative, Christchurch-based sacred artist Damien Walker was commissioned to create a new image of Mary and Christ, one that would speak into the cultural and spiritual fabric of Aotearoa New Zealand.

The article notes the decision to name the renewal Te Ara o Maria, suggested by Manuel Beazley, Vicar for Māori in the Auckland Diocese, and approved by the country’s bishops. It beautifully honours Mary’s role as a model of missionary discipleship, uniting people through faith and culture.

Damien’s original artwork, now known as Ko Hāta Maria, te Matua Wahine o te Atua (Holy Mary, Mother of God), was unveiled at St Mary of the Angels in Wellington and then taken on a nationwide hīkoi across all six Catholic dioceses. It now resides permanently at St Mary of the Angels, which has been named the National Shrine to Mary.

This Vatican coverage is a testament to the impact of sacred art in connecting people across time, place, and tradition.

Read the full article on

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2021-06/new-zealand-renewal-of-dedication-to-be-named-mary-s-way.html