I believe art must only be an
end-product, and perhaps thus purified, may then serve as a base for blind beginnings. Fictional work can never be used for genuine guidance or inspiration; all such entertainment is a material lie as cliched, empty, and pathetic as your iPod filled with Top-40 'radio-edits'... or as the iPod itself.
Work that is the product of a life lived truly, however, reflecting an enlightened analysis by the artist in his craft -- this can well orient toward the divine. God is a critic, I believe, and will bless the beauty within what creations we master.
I believe art must only be an end-product, and perhaps thus purified, may then serve as a base for blind beginnings. Fictional work can never be used for genuine guidance or inspiration ... Work that is the product of a life lived truly, however, reflecting an enlightened analysis by the artist in his craft -- this can well orient toward the divine.Did you actually look at the site I referenced before you posted that? I'm sure you didn't because there are hundreds, if not thousands, of paintings there with a religious theme based on factual events. From "Moses Viewing the Promised Land" by Church, to "Daniel in the Lion's Den" by Rubens, to "The Flagellation of Our Lord Christ" by Bouguereau. Are none of those inspiring to you?