Reviewed by:  Connor Salter, Professional Writing student at Taylor University, Upland, IN.

Introduction

Title: A Redemptive Theology of Art

Author: David A. Covington

Publisher: Zondervan

Publication Date: 2018

Format: Paperback

Length: 240 pages

OVERVIEW

Many scholars have discussed Christian ideals of what art should be (or if any such ideals exist). David A. Covington moves beyond previous works to see what the full Bible says about aesthetics, the study of the things we perceive and how we react to them. As he overviews the Bible’s views on aesthetics, he challenges popular definitions about art’s qualities, form, and intent.

Some readers will be put off by Covington’s writing style, which tends to be overwritten and filled with run-on sentences. However, those willing to wrestle through it will find his ideas are excellent. He gives an insightful look at what the Bible says about concepts like beauty or ugliness and whether an artwork’s message or quality is more important. Along the way, he presents a humbling but uplifting answer to how Christians should perceive and pursue those concepts.

ASSESSMENT

Rating (1 to 5 stars)

4 stars

Suggested Audience

Christian artists, Christian scholars seeking a biblical view of art or aesthetics.

Christian Impact

This book will renovate the way readers view art, beauty, and how to find Christian ideas in artwork. A brilliant book.

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