In Defense of Elaborate Artwork

There are countless traditions, practices, and symbols that can be considered classic hallmarks of Catholicism as a religion (think the Rosary, the Eucharist, and the Sacrament of Confession). However, one of the main elements of our faith that is not often discussed is the elaborate artwork featured in and around our churches. This is often something that differentiates us from Protestants, so naturally this leads to some misunderstandings. Since I’ve visited some very reverent and orthodox churches recently, I’ve been reflecting on the reasoning behind the ornate artwork. Although I can understand some of the reasons to criticize this practice, I think these attempts are fundamentally misguided.

Perhaps the main criticism of this element of Catholicism is that, instead of spending such large sums of money on statues and stained glass windows, we should invest that money in helping the poor (it should be noted that the Catholic Church is already the largest charity organization in the world, but I digress). I would argue that my position has scriptural backing. In the Gospels, you may recall the story of Mary Magdalene, who pours expensive perfumes on Jesus’ feet as a sign of reverence towards Him. Judas Iscariot, who would go on to betray Jesus, scolded Mary for her actions, arguing that the money would have been better spent on the poor. Rebuking his suggestion, Jesus praises Mary for her actions, saying that there will always be poor people, but He will not always be with them. Essentially, Mary’s action showed her reverence towards Christ. When we are able to outwardly express God’s glory in any way, we are pointing others in the right direction. Jesus made it clear that one can glorify Him through expensive and elaborate means while simultaneously helping the poor. Don’t make the mistake of believing that there is a false dichotomy, because scripture makes it clear that there isn’t.

Secondly, I cannot help but feel that criticisms of expensive and elaborate artwork operate under the presumption that the material world is evil and should be rejected in favor of the spiritual realm (this is actually a heresy, known as Gnosticism). The Church teaches that there is nothing bad or evil about the material world. On the contrary, the material world is good, as it reflects God’s glory. The Church also realizes that we humans are sensual beings and that there is nothing wrong with this. If there is a way to glorify God through any of our five senses, it can and should be done. To me, I am amazed and inspired when I see elaborate artwork in churches. One specific example is Michelangelo’s La Pieta, which is a sculpture depicting Mary holding the lifeless body of her recently crucified son in her arms. This sculpture took Michelangelo nearly two years to complete, and there is no doubt that he could have invested that time in helping the poor and needy. However, ask yourself how many people have seen and been moved by this sculpture over the years. Upon seeing the work, it is difficult for one to not be affected by it in some way. Of course, La Pieta is just one example of the countless pieces of elaborate artwork that depict God’s glory. Walk into any cathedral, and you are likely to see at least one work of art that moves you in some way. As sensual beings, it is perfectly acceptable to have high regard for expensive statues, sculptures, or stained glass windows.

One of the main things I love about being Catholic is the emphasis we traditionally place on beautiful artwork. And no, this does not mean that I exclusively rely exclusively on emotion or my sense of sight to draw closer to God. What it does mean is that I am a normal human being in a material world and that my sense of sight, when used properly, can help make me a holier person. Once this transformation occurs in all of us, the world will be a much better place, and then we may all be motivated to help the poor.