Art, Desire, and God: Phenomenological Perspectives

A team of scholars explores how art expresses the human desire for God through phenomenological analysis, drawing on resources from philosophy of religion, religious studies, music, art, and film. The book proposes new ways of speaking about the desire for God through music, sculpture, film, and painting, and examines the mystical and wounded aspects of embodied interface with God. It also investigates embodied aesthetic praxis in philosophy of religion and religious studies, engaging with underrepresented voices and offering constructive bridges across disciplines, aesthetic experiences, and embodied actions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In a groundbreaking exploration, a team of esteemed scholars delves into the profound question of how art manifests the human longing for God. Drawing upon a wealth of phenomenological resources and methods, they assemble a diverse group of thinkers from philosophy of religion, religious studies, music, art, and film. Through three interconnected chapters, they offer fresh perspectives on this subject, employing phenomenological tools to propose innovative ways of speaking about the desire for God.

The scholars begin by exploring the rich tapestry of artistic expressions, including music, sculpture, film, and painting, to unravel the diverse philosophical and religious dimensions inherent in aesthetic experiences. They employ phenomenological tools to unveil new avenues for expressing the multifaceted nature of this longing, unveiling the profound connections between art and spirituality.

The discourse then expands to examine the mystical and wounded aspects of the embodied interface with God. The scholars delve into the profound experiences of individuals who have sought to connect with the divine through artistic means, shedding light on the transformative power of art in facilitating a deeper understanding of the divine.

In the final chapter, the focus shifts to embodied aesthetic praxis within the realm of philosophy of religion and religious studies. The scholars explore how art can serve as a means of inquiry and reflection, fostering a deeper understanding of religious traditions and their significance in contemporary society. They also highlight the contributions of underrepresented voices and their embodied aesthetic experiences, fostering inclusivity and diversity in the study of art and religion.

Art, Desire, and God emerges as a groundbreaking work that bridges the gaps between disciplines, aesthetic experiences, and embodied actions. Through its thoughtful and rigorous exploration, it provides a rich phenomenological framework for understanding the human desire for God and its profound implications for our understanding of the world. This book offers valuable insights for scholars, artists, and anyone seeking to explore the intersection of art, spirituality, and the human experience.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350327153