Discovering God through the Arts

 

Many of us are aware of classic artwork and cultural arts but rarely do we fully bridge the gap between these disciplines.

The author contends that "art helps us understand the complexities of theology and of life and awakens our spirits to the wonder of God's Word and God's world."

I'm not quite sure I agree with that, especially considering that much of art, especially Christian/Catholic art, completely excludes people of color.

And when you look at the setting of the bible (Israel is in the middle east midway between Africa & the Arabian Peninsula), it is completely full of people of color. People in Egypt at a time before Greek Macedonians infiltrated, therefore the people were more of African descent and were people of color rather than looking like Elizabeth Taylor's version of Cleopatra.

I did enjoy the discussion of different pieces of art as they relate to Christianity and culture. The main discussion requires understanding that the author wants to relate artwork like those from Michaelangelo to the faith. And they stand on the idea that artwork is intended to evoke an emotional reaction, which is accurate. 

But as Christians, how emotional a reaction should we be having to art? 

This idea walks a fine line between ensuring that we appreciate the art and ensuring we do not fall into idolatry or assume that any piece of art accurately represents people in the Bible, because MOST art, especially catholic art, doesn't.

As always I received this book from the publisher, Moody Publishers, in exchange for my honest opinion.