Art Lovers discussion

When you encounter a work originally created for religious use do you first think of its aesthetic merits or its religious message?

George Goldner
and Melanie Holcomb

Aesthetic

Aesthetic. I’ve no interest in religion except as a cultural phenomenon. However, we cannot ignore the influence it has /had on civilization, and how it reflects the beliefs of its time and place.

I think this is an interesting question. I am religious but when I look at religious art, I look at it for arts’ sake and that’s it. I look at the composition, color, balance...yes, the aesthetics, not so much the meaning behind the picture.
I do think symbolism in religious Renaissance art is interesting to study and know but it’s not what makes me like or appreciate the painting or even think it’s great art or not.

I personally feel true art always trascends all boundaries. It goes beyond the range or limits of religion, cast, creed or culture. It is timeless. It may have religious motifs or symbols like any other symbols but if the artist is able to captured the true essence then that essence shines through it. I personally try to apprehend that elusive reality in any art irrespective of its outer motifs and symbols.

Meena wrote: "I personally feel true art always trascends all boundaries. It goes beyond the range or limits of religion, cast, creed or culture. It is timeless. It may have religeous motifs or symbols like any ..."

Welcome, Meena! I don't think we've heard from you before. Thank you for your comment. I look forward to hearing from you again!

Thank you Heather. I am not very active on goodreads but this drew my attention because I dwell on this subject a lot. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.