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Annual Celebration of Arts and Sciences
RHETORIC
Saturday April 4th, 2026 9:00 am
In modern usage, “rhetoric” often means “insincere or grandiloquent language” (per Merriam-Webster).
But speaking well – speaking persuasively – is a tool. Aristotle defined it as “the faculty of observing in any given case the available means of persuasion” (more here). Like all tools, rhetoric can be used for ends that are good or evil.
This fascinating image of rhetoric was created as an invitation to a 1561 competition in Antwerp. The Dutch “Chambers of Rhetoric,” such as the Violierin of Antwerp, had evolved into something closer to actors than to orators. The festival the Violierin sponsored in 1561 was a 19-day competition that included plays, processions, tableaux, and poetry focused on the question: What best awakens man to the arts? (I’d be interested in hearing the answer to that one!)
I wouldn’t hang this on my wall as an artwork, but it’s a great springboard for discussion. Rhetoric is enthroned, flanked by Prudentia (wisdom) and Inventio (invention, discovery, plan). From the left (where there is heavenly Lux, light), Pax, Charitas, and Ratio (peace, charity, reason) are approaching. Into the darkness (Tenebrae) at the right flee Ira, Invidia, and Discordia (wrath, jealousy, discord).
Please learn more about Rhetoric on Saturday, April 4th, at Thomas College in Waterville.
Guest Speaker Juan Sepulveda
Juan Sepulveda is an award-winning artist, public speaker, and host of The Winding Stairs Freemasonry Podcast. Known for combining symbolism, storytelling, and philosophy, his work explores the practical application of the teachings of Freemasonry and the development of men into true gentlemen.
Born in Puerto Rico, Juan became a full-time professional artist in 2004 and later fulfilled a dream of working as a Scenic Artist at Walt Disney World. His artwork has been recognized at the highest levels in his adopted home state. In 2018, Florida Governor Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott honored him as the Florida Hispanic Heritage Month Featured Artist, and a selection of his paintings was exhibited in the Governor’s Mansion.
Juan currently serves as Junior Warden of Orange Blossom Lodge No. 80 in Kissimmee, Florida, and is also a member of Tranquility Lodge No. 2000 in Waco, Texas.
Topic: The Silent Language: Visual Rhetoric in Freemasonry
Freemasonry is often described as a system of morality taught through symbols. But symbols do more than teach. They persuade, inspire, and shape how ideas are understood without a single word being spoken.
In this presentation, artist and speaker Juan Sepulveda explores the power of visual rhetoric in Freemasonry. Through symbols, imagery, architecture, and artistic expression, he examines how the Craft communicates meaning, influences perception, and tells its story both within the Lodge and to the wider world.
Please come join us at Thomas College at 10am on April 4th for this wonderful speaker.
Guest Speaker
Professor David Geller, Esq.
is a practicing attorney in Waterville, Maine, and a professor of Business Law at Thomas College.
With decades of experience using rhetoric to persuade and make arguments in court and in his daily practice, he will share with us techniques and practices that make for effective argument and debate.
Note: There may be two courses offered on the same day!
All courses are open to all Masons as well as the general public. Note that this is a tentative schedule and more classes may be added. Future course listings will be posted here as they become available.
While it is not necessary, it is strongly recommended you pre-register by emailing secretary@mainemasoniccollege.org with the course you plan on attending. *not necessary for Virtual Classes*