I say this to highlight the fact that a fondness for old styles of art and music because of its association with a nonexistent ideal has no bearing in the here and now. However, there is nothing wrong with enjoying classical styles or appreciating older art forms. All artists should study the masters who advanced the form. But it is foolish to disavow a new take on an old art form because of an unrealistic association with a time that never existed.
Schaeffer proposes four basic standards one can apply to a work of art: 1) technical excellence, 2) validity, 3) intellectual content, the world view which comes through, and 4) the integration of content and vehicle. It is using these four standards that Schaeffer proposes we judge a work of art. Keep in mind that these are subjective standards, and they are not meant to be used as some sort of scale. They build on each other. It’s a good idea to consider all four when evaluating a work of art, and I think it is in their relationship that we can argue something is a truly great work of art.
I think the reason for this is the fact that our modern approach to faith is constantly trying to remove the mystery and wonder of an Awesome God and replace it with a God We Understand. The problem is that our minds are incapable of completely understanding the vastness and greatness of God. Perhaps art can give God just a fraction more of the weight He deserves.
Simply put, “a work of art has a value in itself”. Art doesn’t have to be anything else but art. It doesn’t have to be social commentary, decoration, an evangelism tool, utilitarian, practical, or a part of some sort of marketing and communications campaign. That’s not to say that art can’t be used in these ways, but art does not have to have one of these “uses” to be good art. Art can exist simply for the sake of art.
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Matthew and Lizi The Meaning of It All "Soulful vocals and heartfelt songwriting"  |
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Andy Melvin The Human Engine Waits "Catchy and exquisite, energetic and mellow" |
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Peter Nevland Just My Mouth "Laugh, and then cry. Smile big" |
