“When we move toward our own creativity, we move toward our Creator. When we seek to become more spiritual, we find ourselves becoming more creative. Our creativity and our spirituality are so closely interconnected they are in effect one and the same thing. Speaking of God, we often use the words ‘Maker’ or ‘Creator’ without recognizing that those terms are there for ‘artist.’ God is the Great Artist. We are creations and we are intended, in turn, to be creative ourselves.”
Julia Cameron
Many sisters in the congregation have used their creative talents to bring art into the world for others to enjoy. Whether it be art, music, literature or other artistic pursuits, they use their gifts to deepen their spirituality and bring others closer to God.
One such sister was the late Donna Gibbs, CSJ.
Sister Donna spent 30 years as an elementary school teacher before earning a master’s degree in Earth literacy and a master’s degree in art therapy. A turning point in her life, this educational background opened many doors for her to share her passion for ecology and justice. She especially wanted to create something that would teach children about stewardship and reverence for the Earth.
Combining her gifts as a teacher and artist, she wrote and illustrated two children’s books with ecological themes. Sister Donna’s books help parents and educators bring forth a new wisdom in our children, since they inherit the ability to influence everything that happens to the living Earth.
Her first book, published in 2016, is The Seamless Universe: A Discovery Guide through Our Great Universe. An origin narrative that honors the connection between humans and the Earth, The Seamless Universe reveals a “planetary wisdom” to guide us into our future. Beautifully illustrated with Sister Donna’s vivid paintings, the book tells the story of the Earth and universe in a way that appeals to children of all ages and teaches how they are able to influence what happens on the Earth because they are a part of it.
Sister Donna’s second book, The Quilter and the Quail, was published two years later. Highlighting the wisdom of wild places, The Quilter and the Quail tells the story of a quilter who raises some orphaned quail chicks. A tender, beautifully illustrated story, the book illuminates how humanity is linked with wild nature and offers a gentle lesson about stewardship. An artist like the quilter in the story, Sister Donna made sure to demonstrate the importance of creativity to good stewardship.
Sister Donna Gibbs left behind a great legacy in her art, writing and teaching. Her creativity and spirituality continue to inspire and teach all who encounter them.