Discuss the role of light in Gothic Art and Architecture.

Discuss the role of light in Gothic Art and Architecture.

Gothic art and architecture was very different than other forms of art seen in the past. Light, for example began to play a major role in Gothic art and architecture that was not seen before. Light at this time was seen not only as a necessity but it also began to be used to emphasize the cathedrals. In a way light was beginning to be seen as art itself. Gothic Cathedral were massive in scale, they were taller than most and had advanced forms of reinforcement. Such as buttresses which allowed the architects to have more wall space, that was no longer being used for an overwhelming support system. They used this extra space to add more windows, therefore adding more light. The architects used the beautiful art form of stain glass to emphasis and work with the light. This combination of the stain glass windows and light gave of a very heavenly atmosphere, which was the very goal they were striving for. These stained glass window also worked to tell the stories of the Bible. Many of the Windows in these Cathedrals held images of Christ and the Gospels, many also told the stories of the Bible. If you imagine sitting in a massive cathedral with colorful light shining all around you and playing images on the floors, walls and pews, it is easy to see why many thought that these churches resembled heaven.