Wings of Humanity
Posted by Brian | Labels: Art | Posted On Friday, January 8, 2010 at 9:00 AM
“Art, for the artists of earlie
r times, was one of the wings of love; religion was the other. Art and religion provide humanity with all the certainties that it needs.” ~Auguste Rodin
What an intriguing thought that Rodin introduces – humanity’s wings working together to bring personal and social advancement combined in art and religion. When one reflects on the historical influence that the church has had on the advancement of the arts, it is undeniable that things have changed since the era of the Medici commissions and the grand cathedral furnishing. If Rodin was right in his thinking – if the wings of love are the arts and religion, then how severe is the modern trend where the arts (outside of music) are becoming less mainstream and religion is becoming more of an accessory?
There are two factors from this quote that stand out to me the most. First, it shows that even a hundred years ago Rodin was aware of the deterioration of the arts and religion – Emphasizing that this is not a recent occurrence. Second, it points out the importance of the partnership between art and religion; hence the metaphor, “wings of love.” In regards to these factors, I am presently moved to consider what affects the re-establishment of the partnership between art and religion would have on the modern world today.
r times, was one of the wings of love; religion was the other. Art and religion provide humanity with all the certainties that it needs.” ~Auguste RodinWhat an intriguing thought that Rodin introduces – humanity’s wings working together to bring personal and social advancement combined in art and religion. When one reflects on the historical influence that the church has had on the advancement of the arts, it is undeniable that things have changed since the era of the Medici commissions and the grand cathedral furnishing. If Rodin was right in his thinking – if the wings of love are the arts and religion, then how severe is the modern trend where the arts (outside of music) are becoming less mainstream and religion is becoming more of an accessory?
There are two factors from this quote that stand out to me the most. First, it shows that even a hundred years ago Rodin was aware of the deterioration of the arts and religion – Emphasizing that this is not a recent occurrence. Second, it points out the importance of the partnership between art and religion; hence the metaphor, “wings of love.” In regards to these factors, I am presently moved to consider what affects the re-establishment of the partnership between art and religion would have on the modern world today.
This is really the heart of what I intend to explore here on Stone Speak. I would like to take you on a journey where we will consider the purpose of art, the role of art created in the Spirit, and the impact it has had, and could have, on our world. Along the way, we will look at the works of some current artists, and observe what they are doing and saying through their expressions. The first week of February, we will begin this exploration by interpreting what the purpose of a particular piece of art might be and for whom it was intended to please. I believe that this is an important thing to explore when one is striving to appreciate art while also starting to create it.
Post a Comment