RELIGIOUS ART | NEWS OF WEEK

ALPHA OMEGA ARTS
By TAHLIB
Jordan Eagles' painting "BDLF" (above) at the SLU Museum of Contemporary Religious Art in Missouri is part of an exhibition of his works made from decomposed blood. Fifteen years ago, this Jewish artist began using animal blood as a painting medium in response to a debate with a friend about life after death, and the connection between body and spirit. The exhibit, inside a former Catholic chapel, raises other concerns as well including "blood rituals," "HIV," "wellness," and "sexuality." Originally scheduled through May 31, the exhibit's "life" was extended through this Friday, June 28, and that makes "Jordan Eagles: Blood/Spirit" the A&O NEWS OF WEEK.

In other religious art news from across the USA, and around the world:
  • Buddhism in Art: What do Buddha, Jesus, and Mohammad teach about obesity? [More News]
  • Christianity in Art: Quincy Owen's gold-leafed Saints are drink coasters. [More News]
  • Hinduism in Art: Learning Hindu divinity is as simple as 26 letters in the Alphabet. [More News]
  • Islam in Art: Soody Shari's collages bring traditional and modern world together. [More News]
  • Judaism in Art: The Hamsa: Middle Eastern symbol lures Hollywood divas. [More News]
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Comments

There were so many reasons to be creeped out about the idea of blood as paint--even animal blood from a slaughter-house which is the case here. What's ironic, especially as a Roman Catholic, is that I really liked the paintings when I thought they were simply red paint "representing" blood, like the amazing work of previous A&O featured artist Imran Qureshi. For those who don't know, we Catholics believe that the wine we drink during Communion "really is" the blood of Christ, and not simply a representation, so I've got more than a few contradictions happening in my head as I open myself up to this work. I have worked through it though, and I did it through the inspirational words of others who did travel to the museum to see the exhibition. They were astonished, and one day I look forward to experiencing Eagles' work first-hand.