A Brother's
Creative Gift
No matter the subject or style, Brother Cletus Behlmann's bold and colorful artistic
compositions are united by a common theme—the celebration of life.
"I don't worry too much about realism," says Brother Cletus, director of the St. Mary's
University Art Center in San Antonio. "I want to capture the joy of everyday life and
convey a subtle spiritual message regarding how life and religion are linked."
Brother Cletus' work graces the public area in the Children's Hospital of San Antonio,
and one of his murals was created during the recent Girl Talk event, which will benefit the
Friends of CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Foundation. (See page 11 for highlights.)
Brother Cletus began his artistic career more than 50 years ago making gifts for his
nieces and nephews. On his travels throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, and
Central America, he sketches whatever inspires him. These doodles provide the basis for
works in a wide range of media, including acrylic and watercolor paints, pastels, pottery,
batik, and stained glass.
"I plan to take a workshop in figure painting next," Brother Cletus says. "My desire
is to do something different. I'm not sure how well I'll do, but I'm looking forward to
the attempt."
LiveWell | Winter 2014
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