Lectures on Contemporary Art: 9

Concerning the Spiritual in Art

The Artist as Alchemist / Shaman / Magician

Scratch an artist and you will often find a magician under the surface. Even artists who do not work overtly with the idea of transformation will understand the alchemy of materials. But many have a keen, conscious understanding of the spiritual aspect of their work. Artists such as Josef Beuys, Duchamp, Anselm Kiefer, Yves Klein, Glen Onwin, Eric Orr, and many more, consider their art has an alchemical or shamanic dimension.

In addition, art is used in many areas of the world for self-awareness and healing in hospitals, therapy rooms, prisons, schools. There have been a number of exhibitions recently showing work from long-term patients in psychiatric wards, and while there are controversial aspects of showing such work (for example whether the patients are fully aware that their work is being shown), the quality is stunning. And our own awareness grows by viewing it.