The Art of Limits

Location: FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice, 32 Phoenix Road, Somers Town, London NW1 1TA (7 minutes walk from Euston Station)

Event date: Saturday 21st February 2026

Arrivals: 10am for 10:30am start
Day end: 4:00pm (Optional Vigil Mass at 4:30pm)

“Unless these things are appreciated artistically they are not appreciated at all.”  G.K. Chesterton

Is an artist a state of being rather than a profession?
Perhaps, we all need to be artists, of a sort.

Drawing upon the writings of St Pope John Paul II, G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, Tolkien and Antoine de saint-Exupéry, we will explore why the world needs artists. This is especially important in the the age of AI and where human beings see themselves as beings without limits, or see their role as pushing the limits. What role do artists have in building a better world?

The retreat will be a day full of opportunity for discussion, sharing some simple food and guided artistic exercises. There is no need to be an accomplished artist to enjoy the day, even those who think they can only draw a stickman will find a day of calm reflection and fellowship.

"The Art of Limits” is led by Sr MaryAnne Francalanza of the Faithful Companions of Jesus and John Paul de Quay who is an illustrator and director of the Ecological Conversion Group charity.

Basic art materials will be provided on the day. Please feel free to bring your own dry media, pens or watercolour equipment if you wish.

Refreshments included.
A simple lunch will be provided - please let us know of any dietary requirements by emailing: chee@thecg.org

If you are a musician and would like to play at the optional Mass at the close of the retreat, please email: chee@theecg.org

Please kindly note tickets are non-refundable.