Realms of engagement—toward an understanding of the contribution of the arts to children's spiritual development

Abstract

This paper seeks to focus attention on the place and possible role of the arts in children's spiritual development and suggest some applications of selected theories in practice. It approaches the discussion by noting the importance of the aesthetic component of life and its presence within the religious framework, then its role in the inner, or subject life. Drawing on selected perspectives in aesthetic theory, particular attention is given to the work of Robert Witkin with respect to the concept of ‘feeling knowledge.’ Some suggestions are provided in the exploration of this concept using the model of ‘process drama,’ and examples of the development of ‘feeling knowledge’ in spiritual development is offered, particularly within a Christian framework.