Malvern Prep Launches the Faces of St. Augustine Installation

August 27 marked not only the opening day of the academic year, but also the Feast Day of St. Monica and the opening of the School’s newest installation: The Faces of St. Augustine.

The installation is located on the 2nd floor of Sullivan Hall, outside of the Office of Mission & Ministry. It pays homage to the school’s patron saint, St. Augustine of Hippo, and presents a collection of portraits that draw from diverse artistic traditions, cultures, and historical periods. The images span from the 6th century to one of the most contemporary works, An Unlikely Aquilegia: North African Saint of Hippo, commissioned by Villanova University in 2022

For centuries, European Christian art often depicted biblical and early Christian figures with European features, regardless of their geographic and ethnic origins. This exhibit explores how centuries of artists have interpreted the person of Augustine and his message of Truth, Unity, and Love.

“This exhibit really allows our students to discover how St. Augustine has been portrayed throughout history. It is important for them to recognize that while they see the various depictions, the message of St. Augustine and his impact on the Church remains constant. He understood that he needed others to become the person God called him to be. His relationship with his friends, son, mom, and God ignited in him the desire to build community wherever he went. This message is something all of our community members can relate to,” shares Rev. Bill Gabriel, O.S.A., Head of Mission & Ministry.

Click here to learn more about this installation and to view the online gallery.