The Substance of Things Seen: Art, Faith, and the Christian Community

In The Substance of Things Seen, Robin M. Jensen begins several conversations about the place of art in worship and the effects of the experience of art upon our lives, worship, and ability to clearly see ourselves and our place in the universe crafted by God. The book is a record of several lectures given as part of a series at Calvin Institute of Christian Worship regarding the practice of Christian worship. Jensen draws on observations, personal experience, history and some scripture to describe the place art has had in Christian community and worship, enumerate the effects of art on spiritual formation, explore artistic representations of Christian experience, and the use of art in creating places of worship. She tackles debates ongoing since the beginnings of the church: whether art should be an aid to worship, or simply a teaching device, and the place of decorative art in churches. She goes on to explore how art moves us to reconsider assumptions about ourselves, the world, and God in works of art that move and even disturb us. This book is a great starting place for discussing the place art should take in our community. The book is wide in scope, but concepts are broken down into consumable pieces, easy to use and apply. The examples and images used are helpful and recognizable, making the information relevant and timely. Jensen moves easily between the viewpoint of artist and church leader with authority, making possible understanding and collaboration between the two.

Good overview of the subject of art and faith. She explains and uses diagrams to make her point. Overall good!