Is the era of religious art truly over?
In short: Many assume faith-based art is a relic of the past. However, a vibrant contemporary scene persists, navigating the tension between modern artistic integrity and ancient, sacred themes. Through new commissions in churches and cathedrals, artists continue to explore traditional Christian iconography using radical, modern styles that challenge the viewer.
In his lecture series 'Christian Faith and Modern Art', the Rt Revd Lord Harries of Pentregarth challenges the notion that religious art has faded. While the last century brought rapid and radical shifts in artistic style, the landscape remains active. The core struggle for the modern creator is how to honor received Christian themes without sacrificing their own artistic integrity. This ongoing dialogue is part of a broader academic tradition, as Gresham College has provided free public lectures to the community since 1597.
Lord Harries distinguishes between artists whose work merely possesses a spiritual resonance—such as Antony Gormley or Anselm Kiefer—and those whose work relates directly to Christian iconography. He focuses on a group of 14 artists who specifically engage with these religious motifs. This includes sculptors like Fenwick Lawson, whose German expressionist-influenced works, such as his 1932 'Pieta', are frequently found in churches in the North East of England. While artists like Bill Viola or Damien Hirst may reference Christian themes, Lord Harries excludes them from this specific study to focus on more direct iconographic connections. He also notes that Lawson's style was shaped by his time at the Royal College of Art and the influence of Epstein.
The scale of contemporary religious commission is also significant. Sculptor Peter Ball, who has worked full-time since 1968, is perhaps the most prolific, with over 60 commissions for churches and cathedrals. His work, often starting with materials like driftwood, aims to create 'devotional objects' rather than mere architectural ornaments. His 2011 'Pièta' in Winchester Cathedral exemplifies a style that evokes the weathered, enduring spirit of Romanesque and Celtic art. Ball's approach often utilizes copper plate alongside his signature wood, creating pieces that feel like battle-scarred relics. His aesthetic draws inspiration from the tormented figures of Souillac and ancient Celtic spirit figures.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Contemporary Christian Art - The Rt Revd Lord Harries of Pentregarth
- Also: Contemporary Christian Art
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