Why Art in a Church?

He has filled them with skill to do every sort of work done by an engraver or by an embroiderer in blue and purple and scarlet yarns and fine twined linen, or by a weaver-by any sort of workman or skilled designer. (Exodus 35:35)

Christian art is a complex question that has created conflict for centuries. Our Protestant and Presbyterian forebears were often willing to destroy art rather than allow it to adorn the walls of their sanctuaries. Even in sacred Scripture, there are admonitions regarding art, including from the Ten Commandments, “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image” (Exodus 20:4). So, why should our Presbyterian Church have a Visual Arts Committee?

I return to Beauty Matters and ask for Stephen R. Turley, Ph.D., for his acumen. “The visual arts provide the opportunity to sanctify sight by uniting our eyes with our intellect, such that the depiction of divine images is experienced by both sight and soul.” Our ultimate call as people of faith is to “make disciples.” Discipleship has been challenging throughout history, and it is our call to provide all reliable means of introducing and guiding people to God.

Turley provides the example of a painting by Gabriel Rossetti entitled Ecce Ancilla Domini. The 19th-century English painting is of a white-gowned Mary and Gabriel. Rossetti uses the traditional theological colors of the period. “Blue signifies eternity, red signifies love, white represents purity, green signifies life, gold represents the presence of God, black signifies death to oneself.” Now, look at the painting and determine what Rossetti intended the colors to mean. Next, the red loom with the white lilies could mean death and paradise renewed. Next, the dove is the Holy Spirit. Finally, the blue garment affirms eternity in her midst.

Finally, look into Mary’s eyes. Contemplate her emotions as she realizes what Gabriel asks of her—birth, love, death, eternity. Rossetti creates a complex theological discussion all in one painting. Perhaps a picture is worth a thousand words. If that picture lights a fire in our soul, it must be from God. When art speaks to the reality of God and does not limit divine activity, it is not idolatry. Prayerfully consider the role of art, color, and meaning in your life, and watch how God speaks through it to nurture your faith.