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Art and Faith: A Theology of Making
From a world-renowned painter, an exploration of creativity’s quintessential—and often overlooked—role in the spiritual life
“Makoto Fujimura’s art and writings have been a true inspiration to me. In this luminous book, he addresses the question of art and faith and their reconciliation with a quiet and moving eloquence.”—Martin Scorsese
“[An] elegant treatise. . . . Fujimura’s sensitive, evocative theology will appeal to believers interested in the role religion can play in the creation of art.”— Publishers Weekly
Conceived over thirty years of painting and creating in his studio, this book is Makoto Fujimura’s broad and deep exploration of creativity and the spiritual aspects of “making.” What he does in the studio is theological work as much as it is aesthetic work. In between pouring precious, pulverized minerals onto handmade paper to create the prismatic, refractive surfaces of his art, he comes into the quiet space in the studio in a discipline of awareness, waiting, prayer, and praise.
Ranging from the Bible to T. S. Eliot, Mark Rothko, and Japanese Kintsugi technique, he shows how, unless we are making something, we cannot know the depth of God’s being and God’s grace permeating our lives. This poignant and beautiful book offers the perspective of, in Christian Wiman’s words, an “accidental theologian,” one who comes to spiritual questions always through the prism of art.
“Makoto Fujimura’s art and writings have been a true inspiration to me. In this luminous book, he addresses the question of art and faith and their reconciliation with a quiet and moving eloquence.”—Martin Scorsese
“[An] elegant treatise. . . . Fujimura’s sensitive, evocative theology will appeal to believers interested in the role religion can play in the creation of art.”— Publishers Weekly
Conceived over thirty years of painting and creating in his studio, this book is Makoto Fujimura’s broad and deep exploration of creativity and the spiritual aspects of “making.” What he does in the studio is theological work as much as it is aesthetic work. In between pouring precious, pulverized minerals onto handmade paper to create the prismatic, refractive surfaces of his art, he comes into the quiet space in the studio in a discipline of awareness, waiting, prayer, and praise.
Ranging from the Bible to T. S. Eliot, Mark Rothko, and Japanese Kintsugi technique, he shows how, unless we are making something, we cannot know the depth of God’s being and God’s grace permeating our lives. This poignant and beautiful book offers the perspective of, in Christian Wiman’s words, an “accidental theologian,” one who comes to spiritual questions always through the prism of art.
167 pages, Hardcover
First published January 5, 2021
585 people are currently reading
5976 people want to read
About the author
Makoto Fujimura
48 books331 followersMakoto Fujimura, recently appointed Director of Fuller's Brehm Center, is an artist, writer, and speaker who is recognized worldwide as a cultural shaper. A Presidential appointee to the National Council on the Arts from 2003-2009, Fujimura served as an international advocate for the arts, speaking with decision makers and advising governmental policies on the arts. In 2014, the American Academy of Religion, named Makoto Fujimura as its ’2014 Religion and the Arts’ award recipient. This award is presented annually to an artist, performer, critic, curator, or scholar who has made a significant contribution to the understanding of the relations among the arts and the religions, both for the academy and for a broader public. Previous recipients of the award include Meredith Monk, Holland Carter, Gary Snyder, Betye & Alison Saar and Bill Viola.
Fujimura’s work is represented by Artrue International and has been exhibited at galleries around the world, including Dillon Gallery in New York, Sato Museum in Tokyo, The Contemporary Museum of Tokyo, Tokyo National University of Fine Arts Museum, Bentley Gallery in Arizona, Gallery Exit and Oxford House at Taikoo Place in Hong Kong, and Vienna’s Belvedere Museum. He is one of the first artists to paint live on stage at New York City’s legendary Carnegie Hall as part of an ongoing collaboration with composer and percussionist Susie Ibarra.
A popular speaker, he has lectured at numerous conferences, universities and museums, including the Aspen Institute, Yale and Princeton Universities, Sato Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum. Fujimura founded the International Arts Movement in 1992, a non-profit whose “Encounter” conferences have featured cultural catalysts such as Dr. Elaine Scarry, Dennis Donoghue, Billy Collins, Dana Gioia, Calvin DeWitt and Miroslav Volf.
Fujimura’s second book, Refractions: A Journey of Faith, Art and Culture, is a collection of essays bringing together people of all backgrounds in a conversation and meditation on culture, art, and humanity. In celebration of the 400th Anniversary of the King James Bible, Crossway Publishing commissioned and published The Four Holy Gospels, featuring Fujimura’s illuminations of the sacred texts.
In 2011 the Fujimura Institute was established and launched the Four Qu4rtets, a collaboration between Fujimura, painter Bruce Herman, Duke theologian/pianist Jeremy Begbie, and Yale composer Christopher Theofanidis, based on T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets. The exhibition will travel to Baylor, Duke, and Yale Universities, Gordon College and other institutions around the globe.
Bucknell University honored him with the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2012.
He is a recipient of four Doctor of Arts Honorary Degrees; from Belhaven University in 2011, Biola University in 2012, Cairn University in 2014 and Roanoke College , in February 2015.
Fujimura’s work is represented by Artrue International and has been exhibited at galleries around the world, including Dillon Gallery in New York, Sato Museum in Tokyo, The Contemporary Museum of Tokyo, Tokyo National University of Fine Arts Museum, Bentley Gallery in Arizona, Gallery Exit and Oxford House at Taikoo Place in Hong Kong, and Vienna’s Belvedere Museum. He is one of the first artists to paint live on stage at New York City’s legendary Carnegie Hall as part of an ongoing collaboration with composer and percussionist Susie Ibarra.
A popular speaker, he has lectured at numerous conferences, universities and museums, including the Aspen Institute, Yale and Princeton Universities, Sato Museum and the Phoenix Art Museum. Fujimura founded the International Arts Movement in 1992, a non-profit whose “Encounter” conferences have featured cultural catalysts such as Dr. Elaine Scarry, Dennis Donoghue, Billy Collins, Dana Gioia, Calvin DeWitt and Miroslav Volf.
Fujimura’s second book, Refractions: A Journey of Faith, Art and Culture, is a collection of essays bringing together people of all backgrounds in a conversation and meditation on culture, art, and humanity. In celebration of the 400th Anniversary of the King James Bible, Crossway Publishing commissioned and published The Four Holy Gospels, featuring Fujimura’s illuminations of the sacred texts.
In 2011 the Fujimura Institute was established and launched the Four Qu4rtets, a collaboration between Fujimura, painter Bruce Herman, Duke theologian/pianist Jeremy Begbie, and Yale composer Christopher Theofanidis, based on T.S. Eliot’s Four Quartets. The exhibition will travel to Baylor, Duke, and Yale Universities, Gordon College and other institutions around the globe.
Bucknell University honored him with the Outstanding Alumni Award in 2012.
He is a recipient of four Doctor of Arts Honorary Degrees; from Belhaven University in 2011, Biola University in 2012, Cairn University in 2014 and Roanoke College , in February 2015.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
June 19, 2021
This was a really thought-provoking book on the meaning of art from a Christian perspective. I loved all of the illustrations and examples Fujimura took from Japanese culture to explain what true art looks like. Fujimura's reflections on the restoration of brokenness in art, the value of making sacrifices for art, the deep connections between art and love, and the ability that art has to have a softer approach to cultural transformation were all really valuable and I really appreciated hearing his perspective.
The one aspect of the book I'm still mulling over is Fujimura's suggestion that we're ultimately created to make art. His point that the Christian life is about more than fixing our sin problem--that we're actually called to do something as well--was well-put. To the extent that he seemed to be arguing that our purpose is primarily to do art, I was more unsure. This seemed to be elevating art on a pedestal that's too high--especially when there are many other worthy vocations out there. While Fujimura did clarify that everyone can do art (whether or not one is an artist), I wrestle with whether it has a position as high as Fujimura says it is. I'm not convinced yet; I'm also not convinced that he's completely wrong. So I'm still thinking on it.
As a whole, I really enjoyed this book and it's one I hope to return to at some point in the future.
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
The one aspect of the book I'm still mulling over is Fujimura's suggestion that we're ultimately created to make art. His point that the Christian life is about more than fixing our sin problem--that we're actually called to do something as well--was well-put. To the extent that he seemed to be arguing that our purpose is primarily to do art, I was more unsure. This seemed to be elevating art on a pedestal that's too high--especially when there are many other worthy vocations out there. While Fujimura did clarify that everyone can do art (whether or not one is an artist), I wrestle with whether it has a position as high as Fujimura says it is. I'm not convinced yet; I'm also not convinced that he's completely wrong. So I'm still thinking on it.
As a whole, I really enjoyed this book and it's one I hope to return to at some point in the future.
Rating: 4 Stars (Very Good).
August 26, 2021
[3.5 stars]
I enjoyed this book, especially reading it with some friends. It made for a good discussion and I liked hearing how they interpreted things and what they took away from the reading.
That being said, I think it started stronger than it ended. And some of the info didn't feel particularly new to me—though if I'd read this book 4-5 years ago, and had not already read Surprised by Hope, then I might have found this more revelatory.
All in all, a nice change of pace from what I normally read.
I enjoyed this book, especially reading it with some friends. It made for a good discussion and I liked hearing how they interpreted things and what they took away from the reading.
That being said, I think it started stronger than it ended. And some of the info didn't feel particularly new to me—though if I'd read this book 4-5 years ago, and had not already read Surprised by Hope, then I might have found this more revelatory.
All in all, a nice change of pace from what I normally read.
October 12, 2023
It was a joy to re-read this book for the second time. Japanese visual artist Makoto Fujimura's powerful little book has inspired me to keep cultivating my craft as a writer, to write honest and hopeful works for people of all worldviews, and to understand with my mind and heart the agape love Jesus of Nazareth has for all of humanity.
In this book I like how Fujimura shows the correlation between the ancient Japanese art form of Kintsugi with redemption-flawed broken sinners are being renewed by The Great Artist Christ, just as flawed tea cups are renewed by the careful craft of the artist.
In this book I like how Fujimura shows the correlation between the ancient Japanese art form of Kintsugi with redemption-flawed broken sinners are being renewed by The Great Artist Christ, just as flawed tea cups are renewed by the careful craft of the artist.
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December 29, 2023Mako tells personal stories, dives deep into biblical insights, and exposes the rest of us to the hidden side of art. Fine book.
November 4, 2022
Seriously, wow. Everyone should read this, especially creatives.
May 30, 2021
This book was a feast. It will inspire you to create, however that looks for you, and dive into Scripture anew with an artist’s eye. A good half of the book is addressing sorrow and what that does for the artist in us, should we press through it. He shares his own journey of walking through the aftermath of 9/11 and what Elliott’s Four Quartets did for him through that season. He takes a good look at Mary and Martha, Lazarus, and the tears of Christ. There is no area of our lives where the tentacles of imagination and creativity do not touch. There is no separation, especially for the Christian. He points to where we go wrong, how we are focused on an apocalyptic end instead of having eyes to see and focus on the new creation.
Some quotes:
The Spirit does not read labels. In other words, the word Christian, used as a mere label, does not mean anything to the Holy Spirit who hovers near people who authentically, earnestly wrestle with truth, beauty, and goodness.
In order to be a sower of the kingdom each of us must become a farmer poet.
Just like the art of kintsugi, what once was broken is repaired, not to highlight its flaws, but to celebrate them as a part of what is to become beautiful.
God, for some mysterious reason, waits upon human making, and chose to use our ability to make bread and wine to reveal Jesus’ resurrected presence known at the table of the Eucharist. Imagine that. The resurrected Christ waits until we create...
Christian imagination today obsesses over the end rather than scanning for the new creation in our midst.
Let us reclaim creativity and imagination as essential, central, and necessary parts of our faith journey.
Let us remember that we are sons and daughters of God, the only true Artist of the Kingdom of abundance. We are God’s heirs, princes and princesses of this infinite land beyond the sea where heaven will kiss the earth. May we steward well with what the creative King has given us, and accept God’s invitation to sanctify our imagination and creativity. Even as we labor hard on this side of eternity may our art, what we make, be multiplied in the new creation. May our poems, music, and dance be acceptable offerings for the cosmic wedding to come. May our sand castles, created in faith, be turned into permanent grand mansions in which we will celebrate the banquet of the table. Let us come and eat and drink at the supper of the lamb now, so that we might be empowered by this meal to go into the world to create and to make and to return to share what we have learned on this journey towards the new.
Some quotes:
The Spirit does not read labels. In other words, the word Christian, used as a mere label, does not mean anything to the Holy Spirit who hovers near people who authentically, earnestly wrestle with truth, beauty, and goodness.
In order to be a sower of the kingdom each of us must become a farmer poet.
Just like the art of kintsugi, what once was broken is repaired, not to highlight its flaws, but to celebrate them as a part of what is to become beautiful.
God, for some mysterious reason, waits upon human making, and chose to use our ability to make bread and wine to reveal Jesus’ resurrected presence known at the table of the Eucharist. Imagine that. The resurrected Christ waits until we create...
Christian imagination today obsesses over the end rather than scanning for the new creation in our midst.
Let us reclaim creativity and imagination as essential, central, and necessary parts of our faith journey.
Let us remember that we are sons and daughters of God, the only true Artist of the Kingdom of abundance. We are God’s heirs, princes and princesses of this infinite land beyond the sea where heaven will kiss the earth. May we steward well with what the creative King has given us, and accept God’s invitation to sanctify our imagination and creativity. Even as we labor hard on this side of eternity may our art, what we make, be multiplied in the new creation. May our poems, music, and dance be acceptable offerings for the cosmic wedding to come. May our sand castles, created in faith, be turned into permanent grand mansions in which we will celebrate the banquet of the table. Let us come and eat and drink at the supper of the lamb now, so that we might be empowered by this meal to go into the world to create and to make and to return to share what we have learned on this journey towards the new.
October 14, 2021
As always, Mako's writing is beautiful. He writes deeply, gently, free of academic distractions yet firmly established on excellent scholarship and insight. In this book, he looks at what he calls a "theology of making," using making as a way of avoiding the potentially specialized term "art." He wants all readers, not just those who consider themselves artists, to consider engaging the world in a "maker" way, bringing "use-less" beauty to a society obsessed with pragmatic utility. Along this journey, he looks at N. T. Wright, Wendell Berry, George Eliot, Mark Rothko, T. S. Eliot, and many others. It's the kind of book that makes me want to read (or re-read) all the other books mentioned in this one.
Too much goodness to fit into a pithy review. I look forward to teaching through this book next semester in a new class, and I know it will be rewarding in class discussions.
Too much goodness to fit into a pithy review. I look forward to teaching through this book next semester in a new class, and I know it will be rewarding in class discussions.
April 9, 2023
I was excited about reading this book and it significantly surpassed my expectations. Fujimura puts forth a timely and deeply important vision for contributing to culture through the image-bearing act of making rather than engaging in the zero-sum culture wars currently consuming the life energy of our nation and our Church. His thoughts are not flighty whims of an avant-garde painter but rather insightful conclusions rooted in thorough theological work and engagement with other makers across the centuries. Highly recommended to all.
February 16, 2021
A breath of fresh air for Christian artists and thinkers. Mako, once again, brings us into the narrative of scripture to illumine our calling to live faithfully in the world as ‘makers’. With plenty of great personal anecdotes, Mako lands the plane for his readers, demonstrating that the reality of the Kingdom isn’t beyond the horizon, but here with us. It is such an encouragement to be reminded that our artistry is meant to be used for Christ’s ministry of reconciliation.
March 1, 2024
There are books you read that reach the bottom of your soul, and awaken parts of you you didn’t know how to shake the slumber off of, and this is one of those for me. Thank you Makoto - the church, and more importantly the world is blessed by this work.
Fujimura’s theology of Making is something I have been subconsciously searching for language for, and it has been like meeting a new friend that instantly knows you and clicks into your rhythm. As I’ve embarked on the journey of curating space for the Spirit’s making in me through my creative endeavors, this work felt like a gust of wind blowing into my sails, propelling me further into whatever the open ocean ahead holds.
So much of his theology centers around the abundance that exists at the core of God’s identity, and the gratuitous nature of His love, grace and mercy. A framework that is life-giving, hospitable and generous, inviting the world to participate with God in his recreating of the very stories we live within.
This quote on the second to last page synthesizes so many of Fujimura’s thoughts - “the resurrection into the New is a journey that we are all on, regardless of whether we can cognitively acknowledge that. There are burning bushes everywhere, burning yet not consumed, and our lives can be just as miraculous. Our Making can be a visible marker of God's gratuitous love. Christ's ever-present tears can inspire our lives and our beautiful, sacrificial, and extravagant responses.
Christians are to be marked with Making into the New, and we are also here to help make sense of the expressive markers of the Maker working through others, including non-Christians” (pg 149).
I HIGHLY recommend this book. Whether you are a self-proclaimed creative, art lover, or hate all things art, this book provides language around God’s work in the world that flows out of the abundance of God’s love and refuses to neglect the suffering we experience, but rather redeem it through shared tears with Jesus himself.
Fujimura’s theology of Making is something I have been subconsciously searching for language for, and it has been like meeting a new friend that instantly knows you and clicks into your rhythm. As I’ve embarked on the journey of curating space for the Spirit’s making in me through my creative endeavors, this work felt like a gust of wind blowing into my sails, propelling me further into whatever the open ocean ahead holds.
So much of his theology centers around the abundance that exists at the core of God’s identity, and the gratuitous nature of His love, grace and mercy. A framework that is life-giving, hospitable and generous, inviting the world to participate with God in his recreating of the very stories we live within.
This quote on the second to last page synthesizes so many of Fujimura’s thoughts - “the resurrection into the New is a journey that we are all on, regardless of whether we can cognitively acknowledge that. There are burning bushes everywhere, burning yet not consumed, and our lives can be just as miraculous. Our Making can be a visible marker of God's gratuitous love. Christ's ever-present tears can inspire our lives and our beautiful, sacrificial, and extravagant responses.
Christians are to be marked with Making into the New, and we are also here to help make sense of the expressive markers of the Maker working through others, including non-Christians” (pg 149).
I HIGHLY recommend this book. Whether you are a self-proclaimed creative, art lover, or hate all things art, this book provides language around God’s work in the world that flows out of the abundance of God’s love and refuses to neglect the suffering we experience, but rather redeem it through shared tears with Jesus himself.
February 25, 2025
This might be one of the best books I read this year.
March 31, 2025
Would recommend this book for anyone whose career is centered around art, anyone who is curious about the joy in crafting, or really anyone who feels a little skip in their heart when they see something beautiful!
The reminder that are good works are apart of Gods ultimate redemption story is always a wonderful encouragement.
The reminder that are good works are apart of Gods ultimate redemption story is always a wonderful encouragement.
January 16, 2024
beautiful, foundational. a book i will
return to, a book i believe has shaped my understanding of redemption.
return to, a book i believe has shaped my understanding of redemption.
March 11, 2021
"Let us reclaim creativity and imagination as essential, central, and necessary parts of our faith journey."
I truly think this is one of the best books an evangelical artist can read while processing their calling to the creative world. Meditative and beautifully written, Makoto's words took some time for me to digest which is why this took almost two months to read.
Leaning into new creation, eternity, knowing God, and preparing for the wedding feast of the lamb between Christ and His church so does Makoto commission the artist of faith to steward the good gifts God has given them for holiness.
A personal favorite chapter and theme was on the artistic style of Kintsugi; my absolute favorite analogy for the gospel used many times my past testimonial/evangelistic interactions.
This might be making it into my top 10 list of the year.
"Let us remember that we are sons and daughters of God, the only true Artist of the Kingdom of abundance. We are GOd's heirs, princesses and princes of this infinite land beyond the sea, where heaven will kiss the earth.
May we steward well what the Creator King has given us, and accept God's invitation to sanctify our imagination and creativity, even as we labor hard on this side of eternity.
May our art, what we make, be multiplied into the New Creation. May our poems, music, and dance be acceptable offerings for the cosmic wedding to come. May our sandcastles, created in faith, be turned into permanent grand mansions in which we will celebrate the great banquet of the table.
Let us come and eat and drink at the supper of the Lamb now so that we might be empowered by this meal to go into the world to create and to make, and return to share what we have learned on this journey toward the New."
I truly think this is one of the best books an evangelical artist can read while processing their calling to the creative world. Meditative and beautifully written, Makoto's words took some time for me to digest which is why this took almost two months to read.
Leaning into new creation, eternity, knowing God, and preparing for the wedding feast of the lamb between Christ and His church so does Makoto commission the artist of faith to steward the good gifts God has given them for holiness.
A personal favorite chapter and theme was on the artistic style of Kintsugi; my absolute favorite analogy for the gospel used many times my past testimonial/evangelistic interactions.
This might be making it into my top 10 list of the year.
"Let us remember that we are sons and daughters of God, the only true Artist of the Kingdom of abundance. We are GOd's heirs, princesses and princes of this infinite land beyond the sea, where heaven will kiss the earth.
May we steward well what the Creator King has given us, and accept God's invitation to sanctify our imagination and creativity, even as we labor hard on this side of eternity.
May our art, what we make, be multiplied into the New Creation. May our poems, music, and dance be acceptable offerings for the cosmic wedding to come. May our sandcastles, created in faith, be turned into permanent grand mansions in which we will celebrate the great banquet of the table.
Let us come and eat and drink at the supper of the Lamb now so that we might be empowered by this meal to go into the world to create and to make, and return to share what we have learned on this journey toward the New."
February 26, 2023
A lovely, meditative little book that perhaps didn't resonate with me as much as it could have considering I have already read so many books on art and faith, so much of it seemed like an echo of similar books like Sayers's The Mind of the Maker or L'Engle's Walking on Water, but both of those are a bit too fluffy and mystical and sometimes approach heterodoxy, so I would recommend this one above them. My one concern would be the same problem I have with James K.A. Smith's work, and that is the elevation of the imagination and the "feeling" capacity over our rational faculties and the life of the mind, which is classified as "modernist utilitarianism." Both Smith and Fujimura seem to favor postmodernism for this reason, but that's taking it too far for me. Why can't we affirm that the Christian vision melds mind and heart, reason and feeling, intellect and impulse, truth and beauty? This is why I find myself attracted to confessional Lutheranism for the rock-solid doctrines at its core so that all of faith is not based around experience. I would still contend that experience and desire are at the heart of Christianity, and far more vital as apologetic methods than disembodied arguments, so I would agree with Smith and Fujimura there. But I do think that we shouldn't assign the intellect a lower position in spiritual formation.
October 15, 2022
These are just my thoughts in relation to this book, and may not represent Fujimura’s thoughts super well.
As a medical student, I don’t create things very often. Much of my socialization/curriculum points outwards, beyond my personal interests/self, and recently I’ve begun to wonder if whether or not I should be creating out of my own abundance when many other terrible things occur in the world. Fujimura posits that artistic actions—whether simple or complex—provide a way to connect with the ultimate Artist. He describes the ultimate purpose of humanity before the fall as individuals full of creative potential and curiosity. Nonetheless, Fujimura’s discussion makes me ponder how humanity’s purpose has changed since the fall, and if this process of exploration through making things/ideas is still an individual’s focus. Additionally, this brings to mind Jesus’s vocation as a carpenter until he began his ministry. Even the Creator incarnate continues to build and act during his time on earth. Fujimura discusses so many more valuable topics than I have addressed, so I’d encourage anyone who creates—music, literature, art, curriculum, code, etc—to ponder Fujimura’s work as a way to reveal how the holy spirit may be influencing you/may have influenced you in the past.
As a medical student, I don’t create things very often. Much of my socialization/curriculum points outwards, beyond my personal interests/self, and recently I’ve begun to wonder if whether or not I should be creating out of my own abundance when many other terrible things occur in the world. Fujimura posits that artistic actions—whether simple or complex—provide a way to connect with the ultimate Artist. He describes the ultimate purpose of humanity before the fall as individuals full of creative potential and curiosity. Nonetheless, Fujimura’s discussion makes me ponder how humanity’s purpose has changed since the fall, and if this process of exploration through making things/ideas is still an individual’s focus. Additionally, this brings to mind Jesus’s vocation as a carpenter until he began his ministry. Even the Creator incarnate continues to build and act during his time on earth. Fujimura discusses so many more valuable topics than I have addressed, so I’d encourage anyone who creates—music, literature, art, curriculum, code, etc—to ponder Fujimura’s work as a way to reveal how the holy spirit may be influencing you/may have influenced you in the past.
January 30, 2021
JSTOR access through one's university to PDFs of books you can't find at your regular library is a delightful thing *grins*
I don't think I'd agree with particulars of Fujimura's emphases or theology (for instance, at one point I was getting the distinct impression that he's amill or postmill), but the general points he makes here about the importance of beauty and making to the Christian's life, and how we are little-a artists co-creating after our Creator (a la Tolkien), and how our faith allows us to make beauty out of the pain of this fallen world, were well made and something that Christians need to be reminded of, whether in an artistic field or not. I think there's a deal of value in here, despite some theological differences.
I don't think I'd agree with particulars of Fujimura's emphases or theology (for instance, at one point I was getting the distinct impression that he's amill or postmill), but the general points he makes here about the importance of beauty and making to the Christian's life, and how we are little-a artists co-creating after our Creator (a la Tolkien), and how our faith allows us to make beauty out of the pain of this fallen world, were well made and something that Christians need to be reminded of, whether in an artistic field or not. I think there's a deal of value in here, despite some theological differences.
April 18, 2021
I came to the book w/ high expectations. I was thinking, this is the book for me. This is what I’ve been looking for.
I really did like it. There were some interesting insights and quotable moments. But it didn’t end up being what I was wanting it to be. I guess I wanted it to be a sort of manifesto for real Christian artists or something. It turned out to be mostly a sort of confused word-salad that was hard to follow with any concise train of thought. There was one chapter and a few strong moments throughout the book that really landed with me. What I did love, I loved a lot, but it either got lost in the word-salad or overdone so much that it felt like beating a dead horse.
I really did like it. There were some interesting insights and quotable moments. But it didn’t end up being what I was wanting it to be. I guess I wanted it to be a sort of manifesto for real Christian artists or something. It turned out to be mostly a sort of confused word-salad that was hard to follow with any concise train of thought. There was one chapter and a few strong moments throughout the book that really landed with me. What I did love, I loved a lot, but it either got lost in the word-salad or overdone so much that it felt like beating a dead horse.
April 12, 2025
Was reading this book on and off since the fall, but alas someone has finally placed a hold on it, so I cannot keep endlessly renewing it...this was good though, since it required me to finish it up!
Yes, Fujimura of course writes from the perspective of the work and art he does, but his idea of the Theology of Making and "Lazarus Culture" is not just for artists and theologians, but for all of creation.
Fujimura uses the verse "Jesus wept" as a way of viewing lots of his discussion. It is poignant, for as much as we talk about abundance and beauty and such, we also grapple and grieve over the real sorrow and brokenness in the world. I also appreciated the Martha and Mary discussion on how there is a complement of the rational and the emotional, the active and the contemplative. We do need both! But in our modern-day culture, we probably struggle a lot more with overemphasizing utility than underemphasizing it.
Discussion on the Eucharist was also not something I expected in this book, but it is welcome!
Overall, quite enjoyable and would recommend! Since it is the end of the term and I should be studying (oops), it was also interesting to look back and see how this book fits into the slowly forming contours of my worldview, tracing the sketches of other books, discussions, or experiences during my time in university.
The author does that too in the book, retracing formative experiences and time periods. (Again, time!!) Some reminders too for me of Ecclesiastes 3:11, that "he has made everything beautiful in its time."
Some quotes to end on:
"This reality opens up the thesis of this book: God, for some mysterious reason, waits upon human making and chose to use our ability to make bread and wine to reveal Jesus's resurrected presence known at the table of the Eucharist. Imagine that! The resurrected Christ waits until we create, until the soil we cultivate is harvested, and until we make, to reveal himself to us!"
“It is in the very nature of God to create for an enduring future.”
"The God of the Bible is the God of abundance."
"Love demands more than utility."
Yes, Fujimura of course writes from the perspective of the work and art he does, but his idea of the Theology of Making and "Lazarus Culture" is not just for artists and theologians, but for all of creation.
Fujimura uses the verse "Jesus wept" as a way of viewing lots of his discussion. It is poignant, for as much as we talk about abundance and beauty and such, we also grapple and grieve over the real sorrow and brokenness in the world. I also appreciated the Martha and Mary discussion on how there is a complement of the rational and the emotional, the active and the contemplative. We do need both! But in our modern-day culture, we probably struggle a lot more with overemphasizing utility than underemphasizing it.
Discussion on the Eucharist was also not something I expected in this book, but it is welcome!
Overall, quite enjoyable and would recommend! Since it is the end of the term and I should be studying (oops), it was also interesting to look back and see how this book fits into the slowly forming contours of my worldview, tracing the sketches of other books, discussions, or experiences during my time in university.
The author does that too in the book, retracing formative experiences and time periods. (Again, time!!) Some reminders too for me of Ecclesiastes 3:11, that "he has made everything beautiful in its time."
Some quotes to end on:
"This reality opens up the thesis of this book: God, for some mysterious reason, waits upon human making and chose to use our ability to make bread and wine to reveal Jesus's resurrected presence known at the table of the Eucharist. Imagine that! The resurrected Christ waits until we create, until the soil we cultivate is harvested, and until we make, to reveal himself to us!"
“It is in the very nature of God to create for an enduring future.”
"The God of the Bible is the God of abundance."
"Love demands more than utility."
July 2, 2024
Gorgeous look at art, creativity, and the Creator. Will definitely be rereading this one in the future.
December 11, 2023
3.5 stars for me - the parts that hit hit and the parts that did not did not
Fujimura brings into light the concept of New Creation, and defends the beauty of using God-given, precious, extravagant materials for art. There were many quotable moments, and, yes, I am ultimately convinced that God is the True Artist and that we must create/make to know him.
My complaints are:
1. This book would have been great with pictures, especially if it was of his own art, the materials he works with, or the artists he was inspired by. It's a book about Art & Faith!!!
2. Fujimura tries to tackle too much in one book and it got very confusing very quickly. I felt like he was going astray often from explaining the "theology of making."
Fujimura brings into light the concept of New Creation, and defends the beauty of using God-given, precious, extravagant materials for art. There were many quotable moments, and, yes, I am ultimately convinced that God is the True Artist and that we must create/make to know him.
My complaints are:
1. This book would have been great with pictures, especially if it was of his own art, the materials he works with, or the artists he was inspired by. It's a book about Art & Faith!!!
2. Fujimura tries to tackle too much in one book and it got very confusing very quickly. I felt like he was going astray often from explaining the "theology of making."
October 28, 2022
This is probably my best book discovery from this year.
Fujimura is not like most Christians who write about art. Many start with God as creator, man is made in his image, therefore we are creators they end. But Fujimura doesn’t end here. He starts here.
He is a vivid writer that engages scripture and deep thinking theology. He is well read, and it shows up as he quotes TS Eliot, CS Lewis, Madeline L’Engle, John Milton, GK Chesterton, NT Wright, and so many more. He delightfully fills the pages with reflective thought and vivid word pictures including descriptions and example of how Japanese art reflects some of the timeless truths of beauty and truth.
The title of the book is lame, but the content is outstanding. Read it if you are at all interested in theology of beauty or the purpose of art.
Fujimura is not like most Christians who write about art. Many start with God as creator, man is made in his image, therefore we are creators they end. But Fujimura doesn’t end here. He starts here.
He is a vivid writer that engages scripture and deep thinking theology. He is well read, and it shows up as he quotes TS Eliot, CS Lewis, Madeline L’Engle, John Milton, GK Chesterton, NT Wright, and so many more. He delightfully fills the pages with reflective thought and vivid word pictures including descriptions and example of how Japanese art reflects some of the timeless truths of beauty and truth.
The title of the book is lame, but the content is outstanding. Read it if you are at all interested in theology of beauty or the purpose of art.
February 15, 2022
Fujimura has written an incredible little book that provides a framework for creativity. It's clear that he has thought long and hard about how the life of an artist fits into the Kingdom of God. Creating anything is a mysterious act and he has found a way to articulate a theology behind art without sucking the life out of it! Really an incredible book. For me it started out as a four star book, but the end is worth 5 stars and more. I'll be returning to this book for years to come.
October 28, 2023
Loved this. I didn't agree with everything - he has an interesting perspective that is a bit, um, extreme, maybe. But he does set forth a beautiful perspective of life and suffering and redemption which spoke to my soul.
March 26, 2022
This book stretched my thinking quite a bit. It was full of new ways of looking at things and much hope.
March 15, 2024
Really big fan of this book. I cried a lot. And I prayed a lot.
I’m so grateful for Mako’s creativity in approaching scripture while also holding it as holy.
So many great thoughts here! Hard to encapsulate it all, but would absolutely recommend to anyone, artist or not, Christian or not.
I’m so grateful for Mako’s creativity in approaching scripture while also holding it as holy.
So many great thoughts here! Hard to encapsulate it all, but would absolutely recommend to anyone, artist or not, Christian or not.
October 13, 2022
An excellent read on the theology of making. Deeply inspirational for all artists, poets, writers, and creatives.
February 24, 2023
3.5 This book gave me a new perspective on a few aspects of my faith which I appreciate! The author’s writing style made it hard for me to get through certain portions of the book to be honest. It was a bit repetitive in the beginning. That being said, overall it was worth the read because certain portions of the book were valuable, especially the last three chapters! Loved chapter 8.
January 17, 2022
I've come to believe that our personal experiences color our intimate knowledge of God, and this is certainly the case for artist and author Makoto Fujimura. In this book, he argues beautifully that God is the ultimate Maker/Artist/Creator and explores what that means for us as individuals and for us as the Church. I was swept up by his vision of New Creation and inspired to see what I create as a worthy expression of faith and worship!
January 11, 2021
Makoto Fujimura is perhaps my favorite of the authors I discovered last year, and this is a new and necessary text to be shelved alongside spiritual formation classics. Grateful for his insight as an artist and admirable sub-creator into the nature and theology of creativity.
Also, I love that every one of his books are so visually stunning: blues and greens for Culture Care, gold-edged pages for Refractions, a swirling "walking on water" painting by Mako for Art + Faith. If I ever write a book, I'll have to figure out who arranges his cover designs.
Also, I love that every one of his books are so visually stunning: blues and greens for Culture Care, gold-edged pages for Refractions, a swirling "walking on water" painting by Mako for Art + Faith. If I ever write a book, I'll have to figure out who arranges his cover designs.
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