In the modern world, religion is often presented as being a uniquely human activity with its own sets of ideas, principles, and beliefs that are distinct from other types of human activities. Similarly, the arts tend to be understood as a family of disciplines each with their own histories, goals, methods, and outcomes. And while there is much to be said for studying these activities isolation, it is important to recognize that religion and the arts have enjoyed a deep and mutually beneficial relationship for far longer than we have had names for these activities. Dr. Ian Werrett is a professor of Theology and Religious Studies at Saint Martin’s University and an internationally recognized expert on the Dead Sea Scrolls. In this presentation, we will explore several aspects of the relationship between art and religion so as to understand and appreciate these symbolic languages of transcendence. Thanks to the Office of Philanthropy and Lifestyle Enrichment for funding and coordinating Learning in the Retirement series. Thanks to the Auditorium staff for sharing the show.
