Encaustic
2011
Davis Martinec
"While framed posters and reproductions are by far the more economical way of to decorate a facility, they do not command attention, nor do they call to the human spirit. We believe that there is no substitute for the beautiful and sublime experience provided by original works of art."
With any language, interpretation is critical to effective communication. A case in point are the recent developments in cracking the Indus language (watch this Ted Talk)-
The language of visual art is no exception. And, while the arts speak deeper than words can articulate, there are tools available to the viewer. One such tool is a variation on the study of sacred texts known as Lectio Divina (Divine Reading). The visual version is known as Visio Divina. In a letter from ca. 250 AD, Cyprian of Carthage wrote this advice to Donatus-
"Be constant as well in prayer as in reading; now speak with God, now let God with you, let Him instruct you in His precepts, let Him direct you."
From this source, as well as others, the ancients developed lectio divina as an aid in understanding scripture. The Rabbis of old used the expression 'pierce the pearl'.
The four steps of lectio divina are:
1. Lectio read
2. Meditatio meditate
3. Oratio pray
4. Contemplatio contemplate
Consider these steps as questions:
Question 1- What does the text literally say?
Question 2- What does the text speak to me?
Question 3- What do I say (in response)?
Question 4- What is asked of me?
Lectio Divina was sometimes called Feasting on the Word,
an analogy I can appreciate.
Step 1- Take a bite
Step 2- Chew
Step 3- Savor
Step 4- Digest
Whether you incorporate the question method or the buffet technique, these steps may help the next time you are standing before a work of art, wondering, "What is that?"
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