This book is an exploration of modern visual art as a “locus theologicus”. The author’s guiding insterest is to demonstrate that the work of art, the visual image, like the written word, is and can be used as a challenging and relevant source in theology. It is an extensive, pioneering study of the work and life of ten leading moder Irish painters from a theological perspective:Mainie Jellett Jack YeatsLouis le Brocquy Gerard DillonColin Middleton Patrick CollinsTony O’Malley Patrick ScottPatrick Graham Patrick HallExtensive research and numerous interviews contribute to a unique insight into the faith, spirituality and theological aspects of the artists and their works. The author introduces the reader to theologians who have actively engaged with art in their work. She is concerned with central issues in the wider dialogue between theology, art and aesthetics: the contemporary context in which theologians and artists operate, the role of the imagination in theology, method and hermeneutics in a theology of art, the quest for a holistic theology and theological dimensions in twentieth century art. The book contains 30 colour plates - three works from each artist.
Gesa Thiessen studied theoloy at Tübingen and Dublin. She obtained an M. Phil (Ecum.) from the Irish School of Ecumenics (Trinity College) and her doctorate from Milltown Institute, Dublin. She lectures in theology at Milltown Institute and at All Hallows College and has been guest lecturer at several other theological institutes.
- 55a Spruce Avenue
- Stillorgan Industrial Park
- Blackrock
- Co. Dublin
- IRL