Why Art Matters: A Call for Christians to Create

by Alastair Gordon

In a world of turmoil, art matters more than ever. Art can bring about political action, even social revolution. Art reminds us of the things that really matter. It lifts our eyes to eternity and show us the importance of the here and now.

With illustration from contemporary art and reference to theatre and film, this book shows the importance of art for all, not just the professionals. Creativity helps humans to flourish and reflects the character of a creative God.

This is a book to return to time and again for inspiration and encouragement. Illustrated by author Alastair Gordon, Why Art Matters encourages us to embrace creativity at home, church, in play and professionally in the creative arts and industries.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction

118 pages, Paperback

Published June 17, 2021

About the author

Alastair Gordon is an award-winning critic, curator, cultural historian and author whose work bridges art, architecture and the environment. For over twenty years he wrote for The New York Times and later became Contributing Editor for WSJ. Magazine, where he also created the popular “Wall-to-Wall” design blog. His essays have appeared in Architectural Digest, Vanity Fair, Le Monde and Dwell, among others. The author of more than twenty-eight books, including Weekend Utopia, Naked Airport and Theater of Shopping, Gordon also co-founded Gordon de Vries Studio, an imprint devoted to books on the human environment. He has taught at Harvard University and received multiple honors for excellence in architectural criticism.

Reviews

[Cameron McCartney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn’t think I would enjoy this book as much as I did. This is a lovely exploration of how art has been important for humanity and for the advancement of the gospel throughout history. I also loved how this book helped shine light on God’s artistic and beautiful nature. This book is not a “gospel” book but this book is certainly one which can be given to an artistic friend to give a new perspective on the artistic world. Main take aways include learning that art is a natural expression of all humanity, art provides a helpful escape for everyone who experiences hard times and art is used all throughout the Bible to convey the truth of God.

[Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m writing a full review to be published later this year in the Ethnodoxology journal, but for now, I’ll say that I really enjoyed Alastair Gordon’s reflections on the art life. Though his comments are primarily centered on visual art, he also brings in other artistic genres, such as literature (Tolkien’s Middle-earth) and architecture (Basil Spence’s Coventry Cathedral). Each chapter looks at a different aspect of why art matters, particularly within a Christian theology, and it all resonated with me. The book is short enough to be read almost in one sitting, but I read a chapter a day for ten days and looked forward to each day’s chapter.

As a side note, I’m glad to be introduced to Gordon’s own paintings, which are pictured throughout the book. His almost photorealistic style, portraying ordinary objects and papers on a wooden desktop, have a playfulness and simple delight that I really like. The book itself is beautifully designed. I recommend this for anyone who wants to spend time meditation on art and the kingdom of God.

[Sarah McCartney · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who really enjoys art in all its forms, I really enjoyed this book. I thought about so much while reading it and had some great conversations which I think is a great sign.
To me this book affirms the goodness of art and glorifies God as the great Artist who has created us to create. It points to how art is a gift from God which helps us, gives us hope, points us to the New Creation and makes us human. In a time where I feel I can become a consumer by default, I loved hearing how I was created to create!

[Grant Klinefelter · Rating 4 out of 5]

I already believed art matters. Now I believe it more.

[Kavi Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a firm believer that art has always mattered. It can say something for us that we cannot articulate. It holds the heart language of all people, a chance to express our thoughts and ideas in freedom.

We create because we are created- we seek to reach liminal spaces and find the kingdom there. To wipe the dust off the windows of heaven so others might find beauty in truth. (A beautiful visual Gordon gives here.)

This is a calling card- an open and honest heart of an artist who knows why it matters. Why it should matter to the church as a whole- and how we can step into that. Would recommend to everyone, especially those seeking to bring the kingdom to earth.

[Katharine Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. Really thought provoking.

[Megan Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
Excellent, easy read. Well laid out.

[debbie-anne Hogarth · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful read.... it has made me think about the seasons of my art journey....