What is the nature of the artist’s vocation? And how exactly does art convey meaning? What might it mean for Christians to be artists? Such questions are commonplace when it comes to faith and art. It’s also questions like these that have shaped the thought and career of writer, philosopher and teacher Dr Adrienne Dengerink-Chaplin.
Dr Chaplin was in New Zealand earlier this year on a teaching and speaking tour, which included the Venn Conversation Evening, “Why Art and Artists Matter”. The next day, we were fortunate enough to get some time in the studio with her to continue the conversation. In this special one-off episode of Venn Presents, Sam Bloore talks with Adrienne about how she came to be fascinated with art and about exactly how art conveys meaning. Their lively and wide-ranging conversation delves into some of the thorny questions of faith and art: on how the gospel can shape art practice, on art and Christian witness, and on the attitude of churches to artists. Adrienne offers a refreshingly grounded take on things. At its best, art is not an exceptional calling but simply a distinct out working of the human vocation: it can, as she puts it, be “honest labour”.
Whether you’re an artist yourself, a keen gallery goer, or just someone who loves thoughtful chat, you’ll love this episode.