Date/Time
Date(s) - April 5, 2014
8:30 am - 1:30 pm
Location
Apartment Building
Categories No Categories
Praying with Art
. . . offering art masterpieces as a means of grace
Why pray with masterpieces of devotional art?
“Beauty engages the human imagination, and the engagement of imagination is part of the holistic experience which allows for conviction in faith.”
— Hans Urs von Balthasar
Originally masterpieces of devotional art were displayed in churches – often as altar pieces – rather than being displayed in museums. They were before the faithful week after week to assist them in their devotion and worship.
During medieval and Renaissance times this art was a vehicle for expressing spiritual realities. The artists worked in a different era, but the truths that they convey are unchanging.
These art masterpieces invite us to go deeper, to see and experience the spiritual truths that lie beneath the surface. They stimulate contemplative prayer and are a means through which the Holy Spirit can speak to us.
How are the sessions structured?
“Art is an expression of something spiritual.”
— Wassily Kandinsky
Sessions begin with the introduction of a particular artist and an accompanying work of art along with clarifying discussion. Each participant is provided with a copy of the art piece. Relevant Scripture and suggested guidelines for reflection and response are provided for the time of contemplative prayer.
Art pieces include: The Annunciation, Baptism of Jesus, The Crucifixion, Holy Saturday, The Holy Trinity, Jesus Washing the Apostles’ Feet, John the Baptist, The Supper at Emmaus
Artists include: Fra Angelico, Robert Campin, Caravaggio, Jan van Eyck, Hans Memling, Andrei Rublev, Diego Velázquez, Rogier van der Weyden, Francisco de Zurbarán