Favorite Public Domain Art for Ordinary Time Worship Visuals

Ordinary Time is anything but ordinary. Spanning much of the church year, this season invites us to lean into spiritual maturity, daily faithfulness, and the slow, sacred work of growth. As we shape worship experiences through summer and beyond, visual art can be a meaningful companion, sparking reflection, illuminating scripture, and grounding us in the beauty of God’s ongoing work.

Below are a few of our favorite public domain artworks that align with the themes of Ordinary Time. Each one has something unique to offer, whether it's a lush depiction of creation, a quiet portrait of discipleship, or a visual echo of the liturgical season's green hues and fertile imagery.

*Links are on the photos!

“The Sower” by Jean-François Millet (1850)

A peasant flinging seed into the soil may seem simple, but Millet’s "The Sower" is deeply theological.

His rugged figure, silhouetted against a dusky sky, becomes a visual metaphor for Jesus’ parables and the persistent faith of those who plant without guarantee. Perfect for sermons about spiritual growth, stewardship, or God’s work in unseen places.

“Saint Francis in the Desert” by Giovanni Bellini (c.1480)

Bathed in golden light, this Renaissance masterpiece radiates peace and divine presence in the natural world.

Saint Francis steps aside from the trappings of society to encounter God in creation—a powerful parallel to the invitations of Ordinary Time: to listen, observe, and respond with humility. It’s rich in symbolism, with flora, fauna, and sacred stillness throughout.

“The Good Shepherd” from the Catacombs of Priscilla, Rome (3rd Century)

One of the earliest known Christian images, this fresco from the catacombs portrays Jesus as the Good Shepherd—a timeless theme during Ordinary Time. The youthful figure cradling a sheep across his shoulders remains a powerful visual of God’s guidance, care, and constancy throughout the ordinary rhythms of life.

“Haystacks” Series by Claude Monet (1890-91)

While not overtly religious, Monet’s series of haystacks subtly reminds us of the beauty found in repetition and change.

Light, season, and time shift across each canvas, offering a poetic reflection on how the sacred lives in the everyday. These works pair well with messages about spiritual attentiveness, transformation, and the liturgical journey.

“The Angelus” by Jean-Francois Millet (1857-1859)

Another Millet gem, "The Angelus" captures two farmers pausing in the field to pray. It's an image of devotion woven into daily life, an echo of the liturgy lived out under open skies.

This piece speaks volumes about the holiness of work, rhythm, and routine—themes central to the heart of Ordinary Time.

Final Thoughts

From ancient catacombs to impressionist fields, these public domain pieces serve as gentle visual companions during a season that calls us to grow quietly and faithfully. Consider incorporating one into your bulletins, slides, altar visuals, or devotional materials as a way to deepen the worship experience.

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