Throughout history, Christians have celebrated the values of truth, goodness, and beauty within their faith. While theology and ethics have often taken centre stage, the arts have sometimes been overlooked or even dismissed, particularly among the Protestant traditions.
Beholding the Beauty offers an introduction into Christian perspectives on beauty, showcasing how various art forms have enriched the Church’s history, theology, and spirituality. This course provides a unique opportunity to engage with Christian artists and practitioners, delving into the ways their faith and artistic expressions intertwine. Participants will explore diverse art forms such as poetry, kintsugi pottery, and drawing, as well as beauty found in nature, Orthodox iconography, Western art and architecture, Asian Christian art, and popular art.
The course culminates in a full-day, in-person retreat where attendees will immerse themselves in the transformative power of popular art forms like music, dance, and film. Discover how these artistic expressions can deepen your spirituality and be woven into your daily spiritual practices.
Note: Session 7 is scheduled as a Sunday visit to an Orthodox Divine Liturgy. This is optional and subject to group size and arrangements with the local parish.
[1.5 Credits, Elective]
Registration closing date:
03 Feb 2025
Dr Tan Seng Kong
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AY24S2_TSCS209 Syllabus (draft)
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Fujimura, “Beauty as Food for the Soul.”
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Fujimura, “Fallen Towers and the Art of Tea.”
Roche, “The Theological Rationale for Christianity’s Immersion in Ugliness.” (optional)
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Fujimura, “Lazarus Culture.”
Fujimura, “Journey to the New through Christ’s Tears.” (optional)
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“The Critical Role of Christian Artists and Musicians in Missions.”
“Letter of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to Artists” (1999)
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