Art and Religion!

The Reformation, which came to a realization in the early 16th century, had its heredity in the long-term, rising discontent with Church leadership. The failing relationship between the faithful and the Church officials stood as an encumbrance for the members who sought after a meaningful religious experience. Particularly destructive was the awareness that popes concerned themselves more with worldly power and material wealth than with the salvation of Church members. By the early 16th century, frustration with the Church had grown so prevalent that an outspoken contest to papal authority by German theologian Martin Luther was more than enough to set off the Reformation. Luther hung for discussion his Ninety-Five Thesis, which stated his opposition to Church practices, particularly the sale of indulgences. Luther’s target was significant improvement and clarification of major spiritual issues, but without his intentions it eventually led to the splitting of religion. The religious differences between Protestantism and Catholicism are delivered visually in Allegory of Law and Grace (FIG. 18-1 on page 545.) Allegory is a small woodcut print. Protestants viewed modest images on woodcut prints as useful devotional material. Prints provided a primary medium for educating those who may not others be able to learn. Artists could print them easily, which led to wide circulation and the sale of several copies. Woodcuts were among the least expensive of all the art forms, making them more available to the commoners than the rich and religious commissioned art, such as paintings or sculptures. Everything is linked together in relation to the Reformation, the invention of printing and the effect that all of this had on art.

Just Ink It!
Danielle Parum