Exhibition

Art exhibition: "Defiant love in times of war: Holiness under the Third Reich"

October 1, 2025

As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, The Church of the Immaculate Conception in central London is hosting a moving art exhibition by artist Ruben Ferreira: "Defiant Love in Times of War: Holiness under the Third Reich".

Ruben Ferreira’s portrait of St Maximilian Kolbe, who gave his life at Auschwitz by volunteering to take the place of another prisoner and was executed in a starvation bunker

The exhibition presents the powerful stories of little-known heroes who, in the face of the despair, prejudice, and hatred of the Third Reich, dared to choose love.

Through a striking collection of artworks, Ferreira highlights the courage of resistance members, consecrated and lay people, conscientious objectors, an entire family, and even a survivor of the atomic bomb.

Each story speaks of individuals who risked everything to act with compassion, showing that kindness in the darkest of times can shine like a miracle.

With vivid and expressive pieces, Ferreira brings these lives to the present, reminding us that their witness remains deeply relevant today.

The exhibition offers visitors the chance to reflect on the strength of faith, the triumph of goodness over evil, and the transformative power of defiant love.

You can view the exhibition for free at Arrupe Hall, 114 Mount Street, Mayfair, Central London (next to the Church of the Immaculate Conception), Monday - Friday 9.00am - 8.00pm and Saturday / Sunday 10.00am - 3.00pm.

About the Artist: Ruben Ferreira

Ruben Ferreira is a Portuguese self-taught artist based in London. He describes his studio as his “convent cell,” where painting becomes prayer and communion with God and the Saints.

For him, art is both vocation and relationship.

Ferreira refined his technique through masterclasses at the Art Academy of London and has since gained international recognition, with works displayed worldwide.

He has collaborated with the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and several Causes of Canonisation, using his art to share the lives of the Saints.

Known for bringing humanity, diversity, and a contemporary spirit to sacred art, Ferreira sees his mission as making art a place of dialogue and encounter for all.

Alongside his paintings, he regularly gives talks and workshops on art, creativity, faith, and spirituality, including a 2021 webinar hosted by Yale University.

You can find out more about him in this short film:

All images courtesy of the artist, Ruben Ferreira.

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