The Value of Art
(The picture to the left has absolutely nothing to do with the post. It was in the morguefile results for art, and I had to chuckle.)
Why do we bother with art? What makes art admirable? What is it we seek to accomplish through the acclamation and enjoyment of art?
Good art is praise of the God of the universe. He created everything. By seeking to create (as much as it is possible for us to create) something that reflects His truth, we honor Him. This is easier for me to see when it pertains to a story than when it pertains to a painting, but that is only because my comprehension of paintings is limited by my pea-sized intellect.
Nevertheless, when I read a true story, I feel it… It resonates. I think, it is good. This is the feeling I get when I read great tales by fellow believers like Lewis and by people I’m diametrically opposed to, like Ayn Rand. In Lewis I feel it in the redemptive themes. In Rand, I feel it as the characters experience an intense longing for something more than what they have. These things are true. They are worth experiencing and commenting on, because they reflect the truth of the world God created. And He is good.
I like your take on art and story. However, the picture on the left added nothing to your post. It wasn’t even there.
Hmmm… it’s there for me. Did I break it somehow?
Two things, a. I too chuckled at the picture. b. If you could read Ayn Rand and not get a sense of the character’s longing for something more, I think you’d be the most unfeeling person to exist. Ever. Thanks, by the way, for recommending her, I thoroughly enjoyed that book, and I also thoroughly enjoy your blog. I agree with you pretty well…all the time.
1. Honour.
2. Atlas Shrugged is my favourite book.