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The Ontological Significance of Art
In the “new city of Grace,” a journey begins when the artist, seeking truth, embarks on a ontologi- cal quest, a metaphorical flight. When through art’s creation a purification unfolds, with layers of meaning, beyond the surface, then the brush strokes whisper secrets untold, from the “city to come.”
The essence of spontaneous painting captivates me; it’s not about projecting preconceived notions onto a canvas, but rather about capturing the raw, unmediated expressions of the soul. Echoing the words of the poet Odysseas Elytis, “What I know not glows within me. And yet it glows,” we touch upon the realm of experiential knowledge, transcending mere intellectual understanding. Art, akin to faith, serves as a conduit for this immediacy of experience, a language that communicates directly with our in- ner being. We are on a journey from non-being to all-being, a journey marked by a calling, a mystical flash of lightning that reveals new dimensions of hu- man existence, previously unseen and unfathomed. My approach to art is philosophical but not aca- demic. I endorse paintings which reflect a perspec- tive that blends elements from the ancient past with glimpses of the future. A paiting versed in both tra- ditional and modern art, recognizing the signifi- cance of the latter while not becoming overly capti- vated or confined by it. At the same time, I’m aware of the limitations of human capabilities in creating
art and view it as a relative process, knowing that even the most talented artists have their boundaries. Although I respect the achievements of modern artists, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the artistic world, I don’t linger solely in the realm of contemporary art. Rather, I use its accomplish- ments as a foundation to propel me further. I seek a fuller form of expression, possibly aiming to create art that transcends the confines of the logical world and ventures into the realm of the spiritual and di-
vine.
A modern Orthodox perspective on art is char-
acterized by a balanced appreciation for both tradi- tion and modernity, while also aspiring for a more profound and transcendent artistic experience.
The revolution in contemporary art is a signifi- cant departure from traditional aesthetics and es- tablished norms. It embraces a newfound sense of freedom, allowing each artist to express their inter- pretation of life and beauty without being bound by previous conventions. This liberation leads to a wide range of innovative and diverse artistic expressions.
God’s workings are often subtle and unexpected (“His own brothers did not believe in Him”). Throughout history, God’s presence has consistently surprised us, akin to a sudden flash of lightning that briefly, yet intensely, illuminates everything under the heavens.
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