Liturgical art is Sacred Art, set apart for the honor and greater glory of God. Because of its sacramental character it has the ability to connect us uniquely to the Incarnation and engage us more deeply in the mystery of Salvation. Liturgical Art is an expression of Faith and inspires Faith.
Vatican II declares that the Liturgy is the focus of all the Church's activity, and the source of all her strength (SC10). Because the Liturgy is so central to our encounter with God, the art and environment in which we worship ought to reflect the dignity and power of the Sacrament. A Liturgical Artist understands these needs and can work closely with your community to develop designs and artwork of enduring quality and spiritual depth. The commissioned imagery will inspire your parish for generations to come, never loosing its artistic value or spiritual strength.
No! Liturgical art is emphatically NOT necessarily the same as Fine Art - even the essential meaning and function are different. Fine Art focuses on the creative process and inner vision of the individual artist. Its meaning is purely subjective and functions only on a personal and private level. Liturgical Art celebrates the relationship between God and His people and the dynamic, sacramental engagement of one with the other. It embodies the vision of the corporate People of God and the Gospel of Life. Liturgical Art is an avenue of encounter with God which must engage the entire community, transforming them into the image (icon) of Christ. Its meaning is objective and functions at a communal, archtypal level.
It varies, although quality Liturgical Art is often more affordable than most people realize. Many factors influence the pricing of Sacred Art. Some Liturgical artists are in great demand because of their reputation. Others specialize in specific areas (sculpture, mosaic, glass, wood, etc). Each consultant, architect or artist has their own pricing guidelines and policies, so it is difficult to make a general statement in this area. A Liturgical professional will generally work with a community's budget, tailoring services and designs in collaboration with the parish team. It is also worth considering that manufactured items generally depreciate in value and often pass out of style in a few years. Quality Liturgical Art possesses a timeless character that will engage your community on a deep spiritual level for generations to come – which is priceless!
A liturgical Artist creates artwork specifically for use in the Liturgy. He or she can help a community develop designs which are liturgically appropriate as well as artistically beautiful. Such art lends greater dignity to the celebration of the Sacred Mysteries and inspires the heart and mind.
First and foremost, a Liturgical Artist MUST have a deep understanding of and commitment to the Liturgy. This requires at least some theological and historical background. In addition, the artist should also respect, appreciate and understand the art historical aspects of the Church's Sacramental life. Of course artistic and craftsmenly excellence are also important, but remember, that which makes a Fine Artist does not necessarily make a Liturgical Artist!
The Association of Consultants for Liturgical Space (ACLS) is a primary and excellent resource for the best liturgical professionals. Potential members are thoroughly vetted for their professionalism, expertise, skill and dedication to a collaborative process. Some dioceses also maintain registries of liturgical professionals, and some institutions of higher learning offer advanced degrees in Liturgy. Unfortunately, there is currently no certification process for liturgical professionals. This makes it even more important for a parish to carefully interview and evaluate each consultant, architect or artist considered for a project. To do this it is essential that the parish Liturgy Committee familiarize themselves with the principles of good liturgy and liturgical art.
The first step is to read and discuss the various Church documents on the Liturgy. The three most essential documents for the diocese of the United States are Sacrosanctum Concillium (Sacred Constitution on theLiturgy, Vatican Council II), the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) and Built of Living Stones: Art, Architecture, and Worship (U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2000). Pastors and parishes may also engage the services of the Association of Consultants for Liturgical Space (ACLS) for some of the most professional guidance and support.
The Liturgy is "the focus of all the Church's energy, and the font from which all her power flows" (Sacrosanctum Concilium 10). By building a creative relationship with a liturgical consultant or artist, the finished work is more capable of “bearing the weight of Mystery” which the Liturgy celebrates. Additionally, building a creative relationship with a liturgical artist allows the Church community to be actively and intimately involved in the design process. Thus, the final work has more profound and sacramental meaning. Such sacred liturgical and devotional expressions will be a treasured part of the community’s life in Christ for generations to come.
