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Unveiling the Unlikely Harmony: Rock Music and Christian Art - A Surprising Symbiosis or Clash of Ideologies?

Unveiling the Unlikely Harmony: Rock Music and Christian Art - A Surprising Symbiosis or Clash of Ideologies?

The world of music is a vibrant stage for cultural dialogue, where different genres often influence each other in unexpected ways. Among these interactions, rock music and Christian art may seem worlds apart. However, their connection offers intriguing insights into how these seemingly distinct forms can evolve together. Throughout this blog post, we will investigate the historical ties, thematic overlaps, and ongoing discussions surrounding rock music and Christian art, illuminating whether their relationship is one of harmony or conflict. Historical Context: The Roots of Rock and Christian Art Rock music emerged in the mid-20th century, evolving from rhythm and blues, jazz, and country, with its rebellious spirit making it a voice for freedom. By the late 1960s, artists like Elvis Presley were shaking up society, leading to a cultural revolution that called into question established norms. Christian art has a long history, with early Christians using visual storytelling, symbols, and literature to express their values and beliefs. Over the decades, as rock music gained popularity, some artists began to challenge religious conventions, creating a dialogue that continues today. For instance, rock bands such as The Byrds incorporated spiritual themes into their music, with their influential song "Turn! Turn! Turn!" echoing biblical verses. This merging of styles can be seen as a reflection of the evolving cultural landscape, where the sacred and secular are often intertwined. The Thematic Overlap While rock music often explores themes like rebellion and self-discovery, Christian art typically emphasizes redemption and divine love. Yet, when we dig deeper, common threads emerge—both rock and Christian art grapple with themes of struggle, salvation, and the search for truth. Consider the song "Hurt" by Nine Inch Nails, later covered by Johnny Cash. The lyrics delve into despair, regret, and the quest for meaning, resonating with Christian narratives of redemption and forgiveness. Similarly, the band Switchfoot, known for its Christian themes, often tackles existential questions in songs like "Dare You to Move," inviting listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys. Influential Christian Rock Bands Christian rock gained momentum in the late 1960s and 70s as artists like Petra and Amy Grant sought to bridge the gap between contemporary music and faith messages. These artists brought authenticity to the genre, capturing the attention of a younger audience. In fact, research shows that Christian rock is now a multi-million dollar industry, with artists like TobyMac and MercyMe securing spots on Billboard charts. This blending of styles has birthed subgenres such as Christian metal and pop rock, making the messages of faith accessible to diverse audiences while retaining the intense energy of rock music. The Visual Art Component Visual elements play a crucial role in both rock music and Christian art. Album covers, music videos, and stage designs often reflect artists' beliefs and values. Take the album cover for Switchfoot's "Nothing Is Sound," which features haunting imagery that evokes themes of hope and longing, resonating with listeners on multiple levels. Moreover, artists like Hillsong UNITED use visually stunning music videos to amplify the messages in their songs, blending visual artistry with powerful lyrics. This combination fosters a more immersive experience for fans and shapes their understanding of faith through art. Cultural Reactions: Acceptance and Rejection The relationship between rock music and Christian art has sparked its own controversies. Many traditionalists in the Christian community have expressed discomfort due to rock's rebellious nature and perceived ties to secularism. Conversely, rock enthusiasts sometimes dismiss Christian rock as too commercial or lacking authenticity. This polarization can create vibrant debates about authenticity in music and the role of art in spiritual expression. Despite this friction, many artists navigate these complexities thoughtfully. Bands like Switchfoot and Skillet exemplify how musicians can maintain their rock edge while infusing their work with authentic spiritual messages, contributing to a rich dialogue between these two worlds. Collaborations and Crossovers Recent collaborations highlight the potential for unity between rock music and Christian art. For instance, Bono of U2 has often articulated his spiritual beliefs in lyrics that resonate with both audiences. The band's song "Yahweh" illustrates this fusion of rock sound with deep theological reflection. Artists from different backgrounds—like Lecrae and NF—have also crossed genre lines, creating powerful statements that challenge expectations and encourage conversations about faith in contemporary rock music. This blending can expand the audience for both genres, drawing in people who may not typically engage with traditional Christian themes. Modern Manifestations Today, many contemporary rock bands continue to explore the intersection of faith and music. Needtobreathe and As I Lay Dying, for example, blend intense instrumentation with lyrics that address personal struggles and beliefs, striking a chord with listeners navigating their own faith journeys. Additionally, the rise of digital platforms like Spotify and YouTube has empowered new artists to emerge. This allows a diverse range of voices to contribute to the ongoing conversation between rock music and Christian art, breaking down traditional barriers. Embracing the Complexity The relationship between rock music and Christian art reveals a complex synergy that transcends simple classifications. While some view it as a clash of ideologies, others see the commonality woven throughout both forms of expression. As audiences increasingly seek authenticity, artists have the chance to explore deeper meanings in their work. Whether through poignant lyrics or striking visuals, the fusion of rock music and Christian art can create memorable and transformative experiences for audiences. By embracing this intricate relationship, we can appreciate the richness of artistic expression and recognize that some of the most powerful art emerges from the tension between opposing forces. The journey of discovering this unlikely harmony is ongoing, inviting reflections and dialogues within the realms of music and faith.

Uncovering the Artistic Shift: How Kata Billups is Redefining Christian Art in Rock Culture

Uncovering the Artistic Shift: How Kata Billups is Redefining Christian Art in Rock Culture

Art and music often intertwine in captivating ways, especially when faith meets rock culture. The landscape of Christian art has changed significantly over time, and one artist who stands out in this transformation is Kata Billups. With her vibrant and thought-provoking works, Billups is reshaping how we express Christian themes in rock culture today. Let’s explore how her distinctive style is breaking new ground and inspiring a fresh wave of artists and fans. The Changing Landscape of Christian Art Christian art has traditionally been anchored in established customs. Consider the iconic pieces from the Renaissance, where spirituality was depicted in a sober, classical manner. As we move to the present day, we see a distinct shift towards a more contemporary viewpoint. In rock culture, this shift is even more noticeable. Rock music has a reputation for rebellion and individuality, which often stands in stark contrast to the more structured and conservative forms of traditional Christian art. Kata Billups embraces this cultural tension. She combines the raw edges of rock with rich spiritual significance, producing art that resonates powerfully with contemporary audiences. Kata Billups: A Pioneer in Contemporary Christian Art Kata Billups has emerged as a key player in contemporary Christian art, masterfully blending rock aesthetics with deep spiritual themes. Her work showcases bold colors and dynamic imagery that capture the viewer's attention. What sets Billups apart is her remarkable ability to portray complex emotions. Rather than offering a polished view of faith, she invites viewers into an authentic exploration of spirituality. For example, her piece "Doubt and Faith" features swirling colors that depict the conflict between uncertainty and belief, reflecting the reality many experience in their spiritual journeys. This authenticity is refreshing in an artistic landscape where many shy away from the messy aspects of belief. By being vulnerable in her art, Billups creates a meaningful connection with her audience. The Interplay of Lyrics and Visuals To truly understand the shift in Christian art within rock culture, we must acknowledge how music and visual art inform each other. Kata Billups often collaborates with musicians, intertwining lyrical themes with her artwork to create a rich sensory experience. The synergy between lyrics and visuals adds layers of meaning to both forms of expression. For instance, a painting inspired by a line from a popular Christian rock song can visually reflect the emotion behind the lyrics. Such work not only heightens the enjoyment of rock music but also deepens appreciation for the art itself, creating a holistic Christian experience in modern culture. Disrupting Conventional Imagery Another significant aspect of Billups' work is her bold departure from traditional Christian symbols. Rather than relying on familiar icons like crosses and angels, she draws inspiration from modern pop culture and street art, which aligns more closely with the energy of rock music. Her art often features unexpected elements—like graffiti-style text or imagery from everyday life—inviting viewers to reconsider their assumptions about what Christian art can represent. This disruption fosters a dialogue that is both timely and meaningful, challenging the divide between sacred and secular. By moving away from established expectations, Billups inspires other artists to explore their interpretations of faith, thereby enriching the broader discussion of spirituality in the arts. Engaging the Audience Kata Billups' art excels at engaging viewers. Many contemporary Christian artists focus primarily on conveying specific messages, often neglecting the crucial element of audience interaction. In contrast, Billups creates an inviting experience. Her use of vibrant colors, intricate details, and relatable themes encourages viewers to not only admire her work but to reflect on their spiritual journeys. This dynamic approach transforms art from a passive experience into an active conversation, cultivating community and dialogue among individuals interested in both rock culture and faith. Beyond the Canvas: A Broader Impact Kata Billups is redefining Christian art with her innovative visual style, but her mission extends beyond art alone. Through exhibitions, collaborations with musicians, and interactive installations, she ignites conversations that reach far beyond aesthetics. By establishing connections with diverse communities, Billups demonstrates how art can drive social change. Her works serve as bridges, linking people from different backgrounds through shared experiences and beliefs. In doing so, she revitalizes the role of Christian art in today’s society, making it a vibrant, living expression of faith rather than a static representation. The Future of Christian Art in Rock Culture Kata Billups is leading a movement that not only reimagines Christian art's aesthetics but also enriches the narrative around faith in rock culture. By merging raw emotional expression with captivating visuals, she creates relatable experiences that resonate with modern audiences. As artists like Billups continue to challenge the status quo, the future of spirituality and rock culture looks promising. This evolving environment will inspire many creatives to explore their faith, weaving complex beliefs into a diverse tapestry of artistic expression. In this artistic evolution, one truth stands out: Kata Billups is more than a participant; she is a trailblazer, redefining the conversation about Christian art in contemporary culture. As we appreciate her work, we can only imagine the exciting developments that lie ahead, pushing the boundaries of faith and rock culture even further.

kata red-pills with new videos

kata red-pills with new videos

RED PILL Christian art by KATA

RED PILL Christian art by KATA

Christian Art Relevant as a Rock?

Christian Art Relevant as a Rock?

My first excursion to the Christian Bookstore was a big let down. I expected to go to the art section and walk through hallowed halls hearing the faint songs of angels as I gazed on Rembrandt prints and other gicled imagery of Christ in each stage of his life... The annunciation- the angel appears to Mary and the splendor of this visitor from another dimension fills the room as in Van Eyck’s imagination. God I LOVE this painting! Those wings are like a butterfly in iridescence! The floor has tiles engraved with scenes which foreshadow the life of the coming Messiah. THIS is art! Back to my fantasy Christian bookstore. Amidst the masterful pieces I expected to see Rembrandt’s The Raising of Lazarus. Where Jesus stands at the precipice of the grave and bellows out “Come Forth!”. Every molecule charges up with life and Lazarus is ejected from the pit. Eye witnesses are blown backwards. Rewind the tape..... That wasn’t my experience. No, the first time I entered a Christian bookstore it was as if a trap door had scuttled me away to the stage of Willy Wonka. Rainbows and lollipops beset me. Chocolate rivers of baby kittens floated by.... Happy children’s faces, shepherds and rivers graced mugs bracelets and baby wipes. and of-course--- (new to twentieth century art)--Hand painted rocks reminded me "Jesus is my ROCK".

Christian ART MUST have shepherds and happy Jesus'

Christian ART MUST have shepherds and happy Jesus'

Theories OF ART_ and where kata fits in (more images coming for article soon)

Theories OF ART_ and where kata fits in (more images coming for article soon)

📷 JESUS RESCUES A YOUNG BOY FROM THE MAN BOY LOVE ASSOCIATION MEETING by Kata Billups Mainstream thinking about an artist in Eastern culture is that one has inherent value only IF he or she expresses beauty. But WAIT! most of my work is not considered beautiful. It may be comical or (to use a horribly overused term- “whimsical”) it can be serious, thought provoking, sarcastic, etc. So…does my work have value to the majority of people in my culture? Possibly not. Does it have value in God’s perspective? We will explore that question in this chapter along with other questions. One of the problems with the idea that...' art has value because of beauty' is this that is only ONE of the major PURPOSES of art throughout ALL time!!!!! These PURPOSES of art are summed up as Theories and they have these titles which I will explain one by one. The MIMETIC theory of art (think MIME) 📷 and we'll go all the way back to Plato for this one) states that the purpose of art is simply to record what is seen in reality. When I think of this theory I imagine landscape realistic paintings, still life paintings, realistic portraiture or the school of photorealism. The PRAGMATIC theory of art (which my work often fits into) states that the purpose of art is to teach or inspire the viewer in some concept or idea. This type of art can be found in church murals, illustrations, ‘propaganda’ posters, etc. Pragmatic authors desire for their works to bring abut social reform (think Charles Dickens). Charles Dickens and social Reform in England . Many documentary film makers would fit into this category. The communist poster below fits into that category. 📷 The ROMANTIC theory of art asserts that the reason for art is to move people emotionally. Many of the work of the Romantic Landscape painters of the late 1990’s aspired to this idea (think -the Pre-Raphaelites.) 📷 La Belle Dame Sans Merci by Sir Frank Dicksee “It might be said that if the reality of mimetic art lies in the material and social world, and the truth of pragmatic art lies in the moral, ethical and spiritual realms, then emotionalist theories take as their universe the inner landscape of the individual’s emotions and feelings.” (quote: Richard L. Anderson, pg. 211). The Romantic movement began in the late eighteenth century. I’d say that in current culture, rock concerts, recorded background music in elevators, even television, dancing and movies stir up emotion in the participant and could be included in this theory of art. The FORMALIST Theory of art. This is the latest philosophy or theory of art and is a reaction against the other forms of art. A formalist will often paint abstractly (and so throw off the ties of imitation of anything in nature.. This philosophy also considers pragmatic art to be “preachy”.It diverges from the emotionalists in certain ways as well in asserting that “art is for arts sake” not to conjure up an emotional response. Formalist deny that art has any purpose but that of making the art. 📷 White on White, 1918. Museum of Modern Art, New York. photo by J. Howe MODERN ART fits into this category- and is such a conundrum for most - I will recommend a book for those who want to laugh at and understand the ‘rook’ that modern art is- I recommend The Painted Word by Tom Wolfe. Here are snippets from a review by KIRKUS REVIEW (an internet site) “Wolfe's premise is simple: since WW II modern art has been characterized by the primacy of Theory. ..... The essential principal which has informed contemporary art, says Wolfe, is flatness. Three-dimensional effects are pre-modern; in fact they've been around since the Renaissance. Ugh! How to preserve "the integrity of the picture plane" and the disputes it engendered among the culturati were worthy of the how-many-angels-can-dance-on-the-head-of-a-pin debates of medieval scholasticism. Tout le monde, that is to say, a handful of collectors, curators and critics, had a field day. The public (the public?) was left light years behind, gawking. ...his very just observation that contemporary art has, by and sadly large, been smugly elitist, its market and its value defined by a small clique. Why is my work ‘dissed’ by Christians BUT not by the gen X young people? Like I said, the mainstream thinking about an artist in Eastern culture is that an artist has inherent value in that he or she expresses beauty. To most non- pondering Christians this value is paramount in that it BEAUTY ALONE suggests to them- reverence for God by admiring the beauty of His creation. So- what is an artist such as myself to do? Where does my work fit in- to the Christian art ‘scene” (maybe it does not)….? But I ask you- does my work honor God even though most of my work may not be considered particularly beautiful? What if it challenges peoples perspectives on God and Christ? What if it makes them re-think their prejudices against Christians? Is there VALUE in those factors? 📷 📷 The above painting is ‘tough’ but most of my work is principally comical or (to use a horribly overused term- “whimsical” like the painting directly BELOW). It can also be considered serious, thought provoking, sarcastic, challenging, complicated, but rarely beautiful. 📷 elvis went with priscilla to help her pick out lingerie but he was repulsed by the 'catty' shop girls in victoria's secret by Kata Billups Does my work have value to the majority of people in my culture? Maybe not. BUT does it move certain sectors of people? ABSOLUTELY! If you want proof- check out the records of my sales (over 10 thousand sales to people across the globe and many celebrity collectors to boot!) Again, I ask: Does it have value in God’s perspective? Being a “Westerner” we have talked about the Western Philosophies of art in this article. As I said, researchers and Art Historians have isolated at least four major traditional philosophies (or theories) art in our culture. I suggest a book entitled Calliope’s Sisters (A Comparative Study of Philosophies of Ar t) by Richard L. Anderson for in depth research on this topic. I assert that simply using beauty as the benchmark for judging all art is a big mistake. One disqualifies a much broader range of artistic experience by setting beauty as the pinnacle for viewing art. Although the inclusion of beauty may be found in all of the theories it is central to only a couple. We all have backgrounds through which we filter our experience. I ask you to look though a new filter as you read and learn. I ask you to consider the work of Kathe Kollowitz She sketched the horror and pain in the faces of victims of The Nazis in Germany. She was a dedicated Christian artist. To my knowledge, she never captured an image which could be considered beautiful. Yet her art had tremendous impact on the way people thought at the time. Ever since I began making my own art in junior high school- I’ve been driven to tell stories with my work. Stories about life. Stories which expunge the tough issues from my own life onto a canvas.. When I was a teenager I painted about homeless people, about women as toys and sex objects, about the masks we all wear, about being trapped in a bad drug trip. 📷 KATA in 1975. when I first became a Christian This is the way God built me. I take little joy in painting a beautiful landscape (although I have done it- and have pleased the clients in doing so…) I do enjoy painting and sketching the human figure however, God also “built me” to have a keen awareness of people. As my work progresses I still yearn challenge people to see the world from a different perspective. My Jesus art is arguably the most controversial because is doing exactly that. Some Christians find it uncomfortable to have a long standing representation of their Jesus challenged. They live in a Thomas Kinkade world where there is no death or sadness- only happy smiley people and little cottages with sparkley lights on in the windows and glistening snow on the ground. 📷 painting by Thomas Kinkade But they need to understand that I am not challenging that image to destroy it but to refresh it. Jesus talked about putting new wine into new wine skins. This younger generation has an entirely different experience than we have had- and a correspondingly different visual and verbal language. The new wine is the same “old truth” but it is truth for a new time and new people. 📷 The Resurrection of Christ by Paolo Veronese I often think about how during the time of Bosch there were plagues and famines and infant mortality. Death lurked around every corner. 📷 And so his new wine was “here is heaven- here is hell- choose now because this may be your last day”. That message is outdated for now.. Life spans are much longer, people rarely die as infants in the Western world. So that message translates as fear and pressuring people into heaven by threatening hell. It repulses people. And yet a few hundred years ago it was the “good news”! How can that be? It’s a simple answer. These are two different time periods and the people of each generation are the ones who will define what is the central need for them as the good news (gospel) Today I assert it is belonging. Belonging is a central element of the good news that is felt in the heart of every human being as our civilization becomes increasingly splintered apart. I also assert that healing has always been central to the good news of every era and it is being revised in our time. Hospitals are necessary and keep many people alive. But hospitals are also increasingly failing the many wounded and ill people of the world. Only a supernatural God has the answer for an incurable disease. So the message (and the supernatural power of God to bring the message to reality) that God heals the incurable aids or cancer victim is truly a gospel needed for this time. 📷 picture by Kata- taken in a Charlotte N.C. all with a live black model wearing a white Jesus mask (with some photoshopping) TITLE: Jesus Reaching out with Empathy to a Young Gay Man in the Store Window- not knowing it was a giant poster Unless we (as artists) can first feel the pain and anxiety , the fear and dreams of the younger generations we will never be able to communicate to them in relevant manners. Our work will be “old school”. It will be passed by as if it were written in a foreign language. How much attention do we give to a book written in a language which is strange to us? That is how the young people see the art of their elder’s generation. 📷 Incessant Madness by Jay Olson (a Christian artist in the Los Angeles area) I write quite about the sub culture of the Christian bookstore and Christian coffee shops. The ultimate symbol of old wine skins is the hand painted rock in many Christian bookstores which says “God is my rock”. "God is my rock" - rocks ! This archaic imagery says it all. It tells me that my generation of Christian artists (for the most part) has little to offer by way of talent, invention, and real intercourse and discussion with today’s culture. As a PS I include an e-mail from a Christian ‘dissenter to my work” (name with-held) HE found my art “un-goldly’ and states his reasoning- to which I respond…. MY DISSENTER: “I liken making art to making conversation. What is the purpose of my communication? KJV 2 Corinthians 13:10 Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction. There are two alternatives mentioned here: building up and tearing down.” MY RESPONSE to MY DISSENTER: “this is a common conception but I don't think it's the whole story. have you read Francis Schaeffer? he writes about how Kathe Kolowitz who sketched the horrors of nazi Germany. She was a Christian and her drawings woke many people up. that was her calling. She did not want to tear down. Neither did Paul when he spoke of his killing of Christians. and yet he took time to speak of it and it is in God's Word, right? within the right context (of LOVE) we are FREE to paint or draw according to our calling and gifts.”

Weaponized ART

Weaponized ART

I also believe- this art is weaponized against human beings- due to these juxtaposed facts/ the quality of the filming is beyond beautiful- so beautiful that despite its lack of PLOT- and twisted viewpoint- it sucks one in like a vortex. Its rather like an extremely beautiful high class call girl- who likes to torture her customers by intentionally giving them all kinds of diseases- while making love to them. My last example of art beautifully done- infecting peoples minds with screwed up viewpoints are the paintings of the much revered (in art circles world wide) Balthus- His 'craft' is indisputably great. the way- the paint glides seamlessly across the surface. The way the figures are modeled in ways so subtle they almost surpass realism- YET---he appears (by his choice of composition ALONE) to have been a pedophile. look at these two works and judge for yourself... .

CHRISTIAN----art---AND ---THE----MARKET----PLACE -----OF ideas

CHRISTIAN----art---AND ---THE----MARKET----PLACE -----OF ideas

Jesus Retched by Kata Billups 2004 This article will discuss some of the theoretical and philosophical boundaries of the artist. In later articles I will discuss whether or not the vocation of an artist can be deemed a calling. Most of the mainstream thinking about an artist in Eastern culture seems to be that an artist has inherent value in that he or she expresses beauty. To Christian this value seems paramount in that it suggests honoring and extolling God by admiring the beauty of His creation). But what is an artist such as myself to do? Where does my work fit in? Does it honor God? Most of my work may not be considered particularly beautiful. This painting directly ABOVE for instance: is one of my most controversial ... because I show Jesus vomiting. 📷 But in our culture (where people now have the average attention span of a goldfish...) I often find myself begging people to take the time to understand an artists' true motivations and the context of the narrative before judging. The narrative above--shows Jesus vomiting because little children are ganging up to attack a homeless man.  So- although the first words that come to mind when someone sees this piece of my art are probably not things like “how beautiful” or “what a lovely painting” Many OTHER examples of my work are---principally comical or (to use a horribly overused term- “whimsical”). It can also be considered serious, thought provoking, sarcastic, challenging, complicated, but rarely beautiful. TITLE: John was Overly Indoctrinated into the iDea of being One with all Things and Believed Himself to be the Biological Father of the Baby Bear KATA 2014 📷 Does my work have value to the majority of people in my culture? Maybe it does not. Does it deeply move certain sectors of people?  I think so.  Does it have value in God’s perspective? We will explore that question in this article- along with other questions. One of the problems with the idea that art has value because of beauty is that beauty is not the only criteria which makes art “useful”. You see...the theory of aesthetics explores the factors which make art “useful” throughout all the cultures of the world. Being a “Westerner” I will be considering just the Western Philosophies of art in this book., Researchers and Art Historians have isolated at least four major traditional philosophies (or theories) art in our culture. They have been given titles which I will explain one by one. I suggest a book entitled Calliope’s Sisters (A Comparative Study of Philosophies of Ar t) by Richard L. Anderson for in depth research on this topic. I assert that simply using beauty as the benchmark for judging all art is a big mistake. One disqualifies a much broader range of artistic experience by setting beauty as the pinnacle for viewing art. Although the inclusion of beauty may be found in all of the theories it is central to only a couple. We all have backgrounds through which we filter our experience. I ask you to look though a new filter as you read and learn. I ask you to consider the work of Kathe Kollowitz  She sketched the horror and pain in the faces of victims of The Nazis in Germany. She was a dedicated Christian artist. To my knowledge, she never captured an image which could be considered beautiful. Yet her art had a large impact on the way people thought at the time. Now I will synopsize the four main Western Philosophies of art.  1: The Mimetic-theory of art is a Greek-derived term. Think of our words “mine”: and “imitate”. This philosophy states that the purpose of art is to faithfully record what is seen in reality. When I think of this theory I imagine landscape realistic paintings, still life paintings, realistic portraiture or the school of photorealism. 2. The Pragmatic theory of art (which my art about Jesus often falls into) states that the purpose of art is mainly to teach or inspire the viewer in some concept or idea. This type of art can be found in church murals, illustrations, propaganda posters, etc. Pragmatic authors desire for their works to bring abut social reform (think Charles Dickens). Charles Dickens and social Reform in England 3. The Emotionalist Theory of art. “It might be said that if the reality of mimetic art lies in the material and social world, and the truth of pragmatic art lies in the moral, ethical and spiritual realms, then emotionalist theories take as their universe the inner landscape of the individual’s emotions and feelings. (quote: Richard L. Anderson, pg. 211). The Romantic movement began in the late eighteenth century. In current culture, rock concerts, recorded background music in elevators, even television, dancing and movies bring enjoyment to the participant. 4. Formalist Theories of art. This is the latest philosophy or theory of art and is a reaction against the other forms of art. A formalist will often paint abstractly (and so throw off the ties of imitation of anything in nature.. This philosophy also considers pragmatic art to be “preachy”. It diverges from the emotionalists in certain ways as well in asserting that “art is for arts sake” not to conjure up an emotional response. Formalist deny that art has any purpose but that of making the art. Ever since I began making my own art in junior high school- I’ve been driven to tell stories with my work. Stories about life. Stories which expunge the tough issues from my own life onto a canvas.. When I was a teenager I painted about homeless people, about women as toys and sex objects, about the masks we all wear, about being trapped in a bad drug trip. This is the way God built me. I take little joy in painting a beautiful landscape (although I have done it- and have pleased the clients in doing so…) I do enjoy painting and sketching the human figure however, God also “built me” to have a keen awareness of people. As my work progresses I still challenge people to see the world from a different perspective. My Jesus art is arguably the most controversial because is doing exactly that. Some Christians find it uncomfortable to have a long standing representation of their Jesus challenged. But they need to understand that I am not challenging that image to destroy it but to refresh it. Jesus talked about putting new wine into new wine skins. This younger generation has an entirely different experience than we have had- and a correspondingly different visual and verbal language. The new wine is the same “old truth” but it is truth for a new time and new people. I often think about how during the time of Bosch there were plagues and famines and infant mortality. Death lurked around every corner. And so his new wine was “here is heaven- here is hell- choose now because this may be your last day”. That message is outdated for now.. Life spans are much longer, people rarely die as infants in the Western world. So that message translates as fear and pressuring people into heaven by threatening hell. It repulses people. And yet a few hundred years ago it was the “good news”! How can that be? It’s a simple answer. These are two different time periods and the people of each generation are the ones who will define what is the central need for them as the good news (gospel) Today I assert it is belonging. Belonging is a central element of the good news that is felt in the heart of every human being as our civilization becomes increasingly splintered apart. I also assert that healing has always been central to the good news of every era and it is being revised in our time. Hospitals are necessary and keep many people alive. But hospitals are also increasingly failing the many wounded and ill people of the world. Only a supernatural God has the answer for an incurable disease. So the message (and the supernatural power of God to bring the message to reality) that God heals the incurable aids or cancer victim is truly a gospel needed for this time. Unless we (as artists) can first feel the pain and anxiety , the fear and dreams of the younger generations we will never be able to communicate to them in relevant manners. Our work will be “old school”. It will be passed by as if it were written in a foreign language. How much attention do we give to a book written in a language which is strange to us? That is how the young people see the art of their elder’s generation. I write quite a lot about the sub culture of the Christian bookstore and Christian coffee shops. The ultimate symbol of old wine skins is the hand painted rock in many Christian bookstores which says “God is my rock”. "God is my rock" - rocks !  This archaic imagery says it all. It tells me that my generation of Christian artists (for the most part) has little to offer by way of talent, invention, and real intercourse and discussion with today’s culture.

why WAS Christian art from LONG ago SO INTERESTING???

why WAS Christian art from LONG ago SO INTERESTING???

DEFORMED-

DEFORMED-

📷 by porn, warped politics and greed, lies and manipulation- selfishness - apathy and entropy in our culture or----they are CONSIDERED deformed. i think of--- the school yard bullying going on with young children ganging up on other students who don't look cool- the way men look at women as body parts and not as human- the way women look at men as stupid sex slaves and they become strippers to put themselves through college. this society has gotten REALLY crazy. and I see Jesus Like a fireman- going back into the burning building again and again until all the people are out.... OUT of danger...Into a place where they can see what is real about God and life and real love versus the fake lust and usury- and they break the matrix.

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MORE COMING SOON! LOTS OF SCANNING DIGITAL WORK and UPLOADING TO DO- 35 YEARS OF WORK.

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