A Profound Weakness: Christians & Kitsch

by Betty Spackman

Rare Book

Genres: Art, Christianity

448 pages, Paperback

First published December 5, 2005

Reviews

[James Moes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honest reflections on the tragic state of contemporary religious imagery & semiotic understanding, specifically that in western culture & in the established church.

Longing for a discerning aesthetic, humbled by the sincere devotion afforded through kitsch, and struggling with the cultural icons of our days, Spackman refuses to absolutely condemn or absolutely celebrate; but, like the cross-less crucifix figure adorning the chapter dividers, she is torn, particularly and profoundly between the competing realms of piety & aesthetics.

The artist/reader is left without any aesthetic answers (what remains are more questions), and an invitation to join artist/author Betty Spackman in changing one's heart, replacing greed with compassion, and courageously creating.

[William Collen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely splendid in every way. Spackman does in amazing job of keeping her humility while discussing this extremely delicate topic. Read my extended review at Artway: https://artway.eu/content.php?id=3450...

[Jill Kandel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very worthwhile. Great insights. I was surprised by the depth of this book. It opened up many new thoughts and ideas. Especially in the area of souvenirs. Worth reading slowly.