On September 17, the White Bear Center for the Arts (WBCA) is hosting a program about Saint Hildegard of Bingen in honor of her feast day, September 17. Sue Swanson of the WBCA will present a film titled The Unruly Mystic, a 65-minute documentary by Michael Conti. Conti considers Hildegard to be the patron saint of creativity. The film will be followed by a discussion about the relevance of Hildegard today and a talk about her music, mandala artwork and use of holistic healing. Swanson will also share pictures from her trip to Bingen, Germany and Hildegard’s monastery.
Born in 1098, Hildegard pursued many different art forms as a mystic, author, composer, artist, healer and preacher throughout her 81 years. In 2012, she was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI. Later that year, she was named a doctor of the Catholic Church—one of only four women among 36 doctors.
Swanson finds inspiration in Hildegard’s use of multiple art forms. She believes any art medium can alleviate stress and aid artists in focusing on what’s important in life, if used with intention. “With so many choices of materials, anyone can find a means of creative expression that adds to their quality of life,” she says.
White Bear Center for the Arts
4971 Long Ave., White Bear Lake
September 17, 6:30–8 p.m., Free
