Art Lecture Notes, Part 2 of 2

Glenn on Arts & Ethics

An Art Lecture in Two Parts -glenn kaiser- Part 2- Glenn's Personal Notes

In several forms of art, certainly in prose, poetry and song lyrics, there is a tension that is nearly impossible to avoid-

Symbolism, simile and metaphor, the use or misuse of language, the careful or chanced throwing of such much as some painters randomly toss color on canvas not only adds to the fun and playful creative output in a work but also conversely adds to possible confusion of the reader or listener.

The very creative, imaginative way one forms verse can of itself create a myriad of opportunities to "get it...' but get it wrongly.

While much if not most great art is great due to something other than direct and unimaginative language, it is that which also often confuses rather than enlightens the hearer/viewer.

As I say, I don't think one can often escape that built-in tension but as a Christian writer I am not happiest when I add to the confusion already apparent in much art culture. Confusion is one thing we can be certain God never authors.

While such tensions can never be fully eradicated by the artist- who upon sharing the work, has little else to offer to those listening/viewing/experiencing it, and little if any control over how the audience interprets it- such a "life of it's own" once indeed had possibilities when it was young and still under the artist's influence.

4 Concluding Questions:

Does beauty alone convey God's viewpoint regarding love and truth in our world?

How can we rightly "spark" genuine creativity and imagination?

How can we take right responsibility for our work prior to and after it's public display?

How can we be free to imagine yet apply Christlike, biblical "borders" out of love and care for God, people and God's created world?

Posted 02/02/04