Does contemplating a work of art mean praying?

The act of contemplating a  work of art is frequently associated with an almost mystical experience. When we contemplate the features of a painting, we are seized by a depth that goes beyond mere aesthetic appreciation. It also raises philosophical and theological questions. What's more, as incarnate, corporeal beings, we need to represent God in a concrete way. But then, as Christians, can we say that contemplating a work of art is a form of prayer?

"Theartist should always say: 'This is what I have seen of God. " (George Desvallières)

Art, Christianity and contemplation

The desire to represent the beautiful through sensible materials is present in all civilizations, and is known as the fine arts. Within the fine arts, we find different forms of artistic expression. Today, we have accepted a certain classification:

1. Architecture
2. Sculpture
3. Visual arts
4. Music
5. Literature

Among these art forms is religious art(sacred art or Christian art), which has held an important place in art over the centuries. The purpose of this form of artistic achievement is to express God, the sacred.

Contemplating a painting: a prayer

Iconography is the perfect example of sacred art that helps us to pray. Present in every church, paintings and icons help us to approach God through contemplation. In the Middle Ages, sacred art enabled people, often illiterate and with no access to sacred texts, to understand and meditate on scenes from the Holy Gospels. From the variations in color to the characters depicted, not to mention the different planes present in the work, every detail of an icon or painting is loaded with meaning. is loaded with symbols, inviting the faithful to reflect deeply on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Through artistic representations of his life, his passion and his resurrection, we are reminded of God' s unconditional love for humanity and his ultimate sacrifice for the salvation of our souls. As we contemplate these images, we are invited to renew our faith, deepen our relationship with Jesus and engage in fervent prayer for divine grace and mercy.

"Formerly God, who has neither body nor figure, could not at all be represented in image. But now that He has made Himself seen in the flesh and lived with men, I can make an image of what I have seen of God (...) With unveiled face, we contemplate the glory of the Lord " (Saint John Damascene).

Practical advice?

In front of a work of religious art , we can: 

• observe the shapes, contours, colors and figures present
• ask ourselves if it refers to a particular scene from the Gospels, what it evokes in us
• ask ourselves what the artist wanted this work to represent about God
• let the emotions aroused by this contemplation come to us. What graces can we ask God for?
• What is the Lord inviting us to do?

Contemplating music: a prayer

Present in Jewish tradition through psalms and hymns, music is capable of touching our souls in a unique way. Religious music offers a pathway to adoration, by preparing our bodies and calming our heart rhythms. In fact, the Eucharistic liturgy is punctuated by numerous religious songs and hymns, as they help to uplift souls and inspire devotion in believers. Through musical contemplation, we are invited to express our love and The many benefits of gratitude towards God. Music contributes to the Glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful.

"He who sings prays twice" (Saint Augustine).

Practical advice

When listening to sacred music, we can:

• begin by letting ourselves be taken in by its melody and harmony. Let our body calm down, our heart rate decrease, and our body prepare itself for the presence of God.
• try to understand what the words (if any) express about faith, our relationship with God, the mysteries evoked
• let ourselves be touched by the emotions evoked by the music. What graces do we wish to receive in our lives today? What are the things we need?
• ask ourselves how we can, through our talents, participate in the Glory of God on earth.