The Vocation of the Artist

This book examines the historical role of the artist and considers the contemporary function of the artist as prophetic critic and visionary.

Deborah J. Haynes (Author)

9780521589697, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 13 August 1997

352 pages, 35 b/w illus.
25.4 x 17.8 x 1.9 cm, 0.86 kg

"Her vision for artists to be active in constructing a positive future for our world is to be applauded." Mark Torgerson, Worship

The Vocation of the Artist examines the historical role of the artist and presents a particular perspective, grounded in the author's experience as a practising artist and scholar, on the contemporary function of the artist as prophetic critic and visionary. Using specific interpretations of the words 'vocation', 'prophetic', and 'visionary', Deborah Haynes draws attention to the need for artists to assess critically the relationship of the past and present to the future. Bringing together a wide range of historical and theoretical sources in cultural history, art history and theory, and religion, this book is addressed to those interested in the complex interdisciplinary dialogue of the visual arts, religion, and ethics.

Part I. Preliminary Issues: 1. Introduction
2. A proposition
3. Vocation
4. The efficacy of art
Part II. Roles of the Artist: 5. Premodern theocentric mimetic craftsperson
6. Modern anthropocentric original inventor
7. Avant-garde prophet
8. Postmodern parodic ex-centric bricoleur
Part III. The Reclamation of the Future: 9. Prophetic criticism
10. Visionary imagination
11. Creativity, utopia, and hope
12. A final image.

Subject Areas: Theory of art [ABA]