Mathewes-Green on Christian Art

I found this today in Facing East, by Frederica Mathewes-Green, after she's talked about the sentimental art of Christian bookstores, and the harrowing, darker art of the more O'Connor-esque artists:

These seem to be the poles currently available in Christian art: comfort or disturb. In a culture where Christianity is tamed or toothless, and popular art seems intent on keeping believers that way, artists like Sheila, Ed, and O'Connor shout an alarm. One might wish for alternative conversations: art that inspires courage, for example, or awe or sorrow for sin. Perhaps such is not yet possible; perhaps the first message, "Wake up!," is still struggling to get through.

I don't know . . . it just leaves me with a real longing to make that kind of art she talks about in the middle there: of courage and awe and sorrow for sin.

I think I want to make that art.

Peace of Christ to you,
Jessica Snell