Intersections

Arts for Spiritual Transcendence

Many cultures around the world use art to cope with life’s mysteries and misfortunes. Some objects serve as agents of change or as abodes for spirits. Properly constructed and addressed or worshipped, such works of art may prompt the spirit to act. In most world religions, sculptures made for temples, shrines, and churches are intended as focal points for devotion. Their iconography makes them accessible to a wide range of followers, and their role is to mediate between human and divine realms.

The ability of a work of art to solicit spiritual aid is not restricted to formal world religions but is also observed in local contexts through objects of personal assistance and devotion. Throughout Africa figures are made to heal and protect individuals and their families. The Japanese ema and Mexican retablo also help believers to transcend obstacles such as illness, bereavement, or other problems, and their detailed iconography often indicates the intervention sought or provided.