Cloistered Visionary: Sister Mary of the Compassion and the Art Apostolate in Union City, New Jersey

Abstract

Abstract:The contemplative Dominican nun, Sister Mary of the Compassion (Constance Mary Rowe) (1908–1977), became a successful artist from within the cloister. Born in Great Britain, she came to New York to advance her art career but discerned a vocation to the Dominican Sisters of the Perpetual Rosary in Union City, New Jersey. While best known to those living near her monastery, her influence spread worldwide through exhibits and publications. Impacted by the liturgical movement and medieval and early renaissance art, Sister Mary of the Compassion's work can be seen in the context of the development of Christian art, Catholic Action, the liturgical revival, and the history of women religious.