"Roger Scruton described his experience with Michelangelo's Pietà as a 'transporting experience' that changed his life, emphasizing art's potential to elevate us to a higher moral or spiritual plane."
"Scruton criticized contemporary art for merely aiming to disturb or break moral taboos, using Duchamp's Fountain as an example of art that prioritizes shock over beauty."
"James K. A. Smith argues that modern art is not spiritually empty; instead, it can cultivate a contemplative posture that opens viewers to the mystical."
"Smith believes that abstract and experimental art can lead to deeper spiritual engagement, contrasting with traditionalists who dismiss it as self-indulgent."
Roger Scruton viewed Michelangelo's Pietà as a transformative experience that exemplified art's ability to elevate the spirit. He criticized contemporary art for its focus on shock value, arguing it lacks the capacity to inspire moral or spiritual growth. In contrast, James K. A. Smith's book suggests that modern art can foster a contemplative mindset, opening viewers to mystical experiences. Smith, unlike traditionalists, sees value in abstract and experimental art, proposing it can lead to deeper spiritual engagement.
Read at The Atlantic
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