St. Therese, St. Catherine, St. Teresa

This series of paintings shows the Doctors of the Church who are women.  Recently I read that St. Hildegard of Bingen has also been given the title, so the series is incomplete.  I tried to capture these beautifully holy saints at the age they would have completed their most influential work.  The books they are holding represent sacred scripture, the flowers each have symbolic meaning in Christianity.  Roses are Christ, columbine: the Holy Spirit, oranges: purity, lilies: Mary, dogwood: Christ, daffodils: resurrection. 

Definition of Doctor of the Church taken from Catholic Online "This is a very special title accorded by the Church to certain saints. This title indicates that the writings and preachings of such a person are useful to Christians "in any age of the Church." Such men and women are also particularly known for the depth of understanding and the orthodoxy of their theological teachings. While the writings of the Doctors are often considered inspired by the Holy Spirit; this does not mean they are infallible, but it does mean that they contributed significantly to the formulation of Christian teaching in at least one area."
Each is 9 x11" and painted in gouache on paper.

St. Therese of Lisieux: France1873-1897

Carmelite nun

St. Catherine of Siena: Italy 1347-1380

Third order Dominican 

St. Teresa of Avila: Spain 1515-1582

Carmelite nun