About
James Elkins, a renowned critic and art researcher, describes the relationship between contemporary art and religion as “strange.”
On one hand, artists often critically view the church as a powerful institution and religious communities as “structures of reciprocity.” On the other hand, there is a prevalent “non-sacred spirituality” among them. Artists frequently take on the role of “preachers,” seekers of truth, or even spiritual leaders. Museums are perceived as temples of art, communities become the arena for their actions, and the past and future serve as spaces for aesthetic reflection.
Artists are often entrusted with creating memorials and contemplating tragic events, expecting them to provide profound reflections. Their works may be seen as “confessions,” while the artists themselves are regarded as custodians of certain cults or rituals that do not always possess a sacred nature. This metaphor of art as a temple, unconfined by walls, emphasizes the openness and multilayered nature of the “art world,” where explicit and hidden, rational and mystical narratives intertwine.
In difficult historical times, artists often turn to temples, seeking solace, restoration of internal balance, or rethinking catastrophic events. Temples become meeting places where artists can engage with an audience open to perception and contemplation. It is in such interactions that they can create works that unveil universal themes of faith, hope, love, loss, or redemption—themes that resonate with each of us.
If we view art as a wall-less temple, it can be suggested that it opens access to hidden and profound experiences, to reflection on events that shape society. In this sense, art is not only a way of understanding the world but also a space where everyone can find their own place for contemplation and spiritual renewal.
Moderator: Bohdan Shumylovych
Participants: Dana Kavelina, Sasha Dovzhyk, Bohdan Bunchak, Andrii Usach
Entry to the event is free, with no prior registration required.
Location: B. Khmelnytskoho St., 124; Auditorium