The problem of modern religious art

Before coming to closer grips with the problem of modern religious art, a word about contemporary art in general. Not rarely this displays originality and imagination, occasionally even to an astonishing degree. Commonly, sloughing off inessentials, it addresses us through a stark simplicity of form. It can be strong and highly intellectual; seldom, if ever, is it sentimental. In the onlooker it works like a catalyst; it may provoke his contempt or fan his enthusiasm; never does it leave him indifferent. It is typical of modern art to be challenging - sometimes with unmistakable inspiration and authentic vision.