When it comes to comparing and contrasting the Greek and Christian views of the artist, it is understood that they are on different sides of the spectrum. Although there are some similarities between the two, Greek art holds a humanistic view while art from a Christian standpoint showcases man’s expression of God’s beauty. Biblical scripture clearly states the responsibility of artists in creation and how art should and should not be used. Understanding both the Greek and Christian views of the artist is important in discerning between right and wrong while applying Biblical commands to daily life.
As mentioned before, the Greeks took a humanistic approach when creating art. This perspective places a human’s journey or experience at the center of everything. It is understood that the comparison between human emotions is complex, yet beautiful. Mankind is both heroic and imperfect as well as giving and selfish. When humanism in Greek culture is discussed, philosophy and religion are not emphasized, but rather complexity in moral and psychological terms (“Greek Humanism”). The starting point of this view can be seen in Greek history as a king named Agamemnon is esteemed, but also deeply flawed. Other characters, such as Achilles, are deemed heroic, yet troubled. Why is this the case? Despite all of their redeeming qualities, they are still presented with the struggle of overcoming life’s imperfections. Greek humanists are interested in the beauty behind man’s struggle to come to terms with their flaws (“Greek Humanism”). The Greek artist interprets this inward brawl as extraordinary and captivating. The Greek view of the artist can be debated between two things: a demigod whose work should be accepted, or an imposter. What differentiates the two depends on whether or not their work depicts this belief in contrasting humanity’s qualities.
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Greeks also emphasize the outward beauty and athleticism of human bodies. Ancient Greek art symbolizes the accomplishments and pride of mankind. The term “arete,” meaning excellence or the ability to reach full potential, was one of their culture’s fundamental principles (Independence Hall Association). Much of the ancient Greek culture that is showcased throughout their history may seem strangely familiar to modern-day forms of art. Greek civilization has been embedded into our culture through Hollywood and technology. The constant struggle of man is seen through visions of epic battles, white temples, and athletic performances. Although much ancient Greek art has been lost in time, hints of it are still being revealed today (Gondek).
Most Greek art was created to worship false gods, but those gods were represented through the image of man. Stone or wood sculptures mainly depicted men as masculine and strong in an effort to glorify themselves. Much of them were nude and freestanding, as artists saw beauty in this form. Earlier sculptors showcased a more rigid form of man, specifically known as “kouros,” but as time progressed, more natural poses were adopted (Independence Hall Association). Action sculptures, such as Myron’s Discus Thrower, presented an athletic human depiction. Very few Greek paintings remain, but ancient pottery also portrays stories of both tragedy and heroism.
In contrast to the motivation behind Greek artists, Christians place God at the center of handiwork. Greek art was used as a medium for mankind’s ennoblement, while Christian art expresses the artist’s individual philosophy. Greek art portrays a more political aspect, however, Christian-influenced artwork perceives a heavenly aesthetic (Greek Thesaurus). More specifically, God’s beauty is revealed. God is the Creator of everything that is beautiful, including humans, and the artist’s job is to showcase that. The art Christians create is another way beauty can be displayed through the power of the Holy Spirit. Art is an essential aspect of the Christian religion. It forms a community, a place for reflection, and helps to nurture humanity as a whole. A sense of longing within a Christian is evoked when beauty is displayed through art. That homesick feeling stems from a desire for heaven. Hints of heaven’s beauty and a glimpse of God’s complexity are shown through art leaving the observer wanting more.
The Christian artist’s mandate found in Philippians 4:8 commands followers of Christ to appreciate transcendent and value-laden creative things that make our existence noble. Because mankind has been created in God’s image, as Genesis 1:27 states, being part of His kingdom entails serving as both creators and critics of artwork. When observing creation, followers of Christ are told to see the world as God sees it. Renewal of the mind and nonconformity to the world’s beliefs, as mentioned in Romans 12:1-2, is a necessary aspect of the Christian lifestyle when one is either creating or viewing art. This includes discerning what is deemed as appropriate expressions of art and proper uses of art in a Christian worship environment.
A Christian’s approach to art must not consist of aiming to show the validity of Christianity through art, but, “Rather the validity of art should be shown through Christianity” (Rookmaaker). Just as genuine Christians do not only go through the motions, but they live out a Godly life, the artist should focus on showcasing their renewal in God through creativity. The ability to claim something as art stems from whether or not it conforms to reality and things we know to be true. Artists can also prevent any misleading doctrine that may be presented in other artwork, such as the Greek’s, and instead help promote biblically sound creations. The job of a Christian artist is to produce this. The motivation behind the Christian artist stems from a desire to use their God-given talents and glorify God through art for others to see. A Christian artist is someone who aims to advance the kingdom of God through expression no matter the audience’s beliefs.
Both Christian and Greek artists aim to worship and glorify something through their work. There is meaning behind each piece no matter the artist’s religion or cultural background. Differences do although stem from the artist’s specific motivation, as in whom or what is being glorified. Ancient Greek artists promoted a more humanistic view, while Christian artists attempted to glorify God as the foundation of all creation. Both similarities and differences are found between Greek and Christian artists, but both have played an important part in the development of modern society.
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