Sacred Scripture as a Catalyst for Creative Expression: An Endless Ocean of God's Ancient Inspiration

Abstract

Why is scripture a catalyst for cultural expression and how can the writings of Bahaullah infuse a fresh dynamic into this process This paper examines the relationship between visual art and scripture through examples taken from the visual art practice of the author. Specific pieces of artwork are described and illustrated along with the verses from Bahaullah's The Hidden Words that inspired them. These pieces aim to translate the verses into visual metaphors and through this interpretation discover more about the direct correlation that exists between visual art and sacred text. This unfolding process provides a framework for exploring wider implications that are relevant to contemporary life and philosophy. Comparisons are made with other creative practitioners who have drawn their inspiration from spiritual teachings and particular interest is placed on the cultural expressions of the Islamic tradition. The metaphorical meanings of key motifs such as veils, layers, light, gems and silence are described, along with examples of how they have been used by artists throughout history. These examples attempt to open the reader's eyes to an awareness of the signs and symbols of the divine that penetrate all aspects of creation. The cyclical energies of the creative process are compared to the cyclical nature of divine revelation and the spiritual progress of individual souls. The power of minimal art is seen as a reflection of the ineffable and the challenge of postmodernism is highlighted as an attempt to unify this emptiness once more with the diversity of contemporary life. These observations illustrate how academic study and contextualization of an artist's practice can provide a framework that, far from restricting creativity, offers a deep grounding and springboard into the freedom of spontaneous improvisation.