We believe that artists are inspired by the divine, in the spirit of Fra Angelico, and that they have a special vocation to bring beauty into the world and thereby promote the good.
In his Letter to Artists in 1999, Pope John Paul II discussed the “special vocation” of the artist by beginning with the unique relationship between the artist and the creator. While God is the ultimate creator of all that is good and beautiful, “with loving regard, the divine Artist (God) passes on to the human artist a spark of his own surpassing wisdom, calling him to share in his creative power.” Letter at 2.
Although the artist vocation is difficult, it is also necessary because the world desperately needs the beautiful, for “beauty is the visible form of the good, just as the good is the metaphysical condition of beauty.” Letter at 3. Even when they “explore the darkest depths of the soul or the most unsettling aspects of evil, artists give voice in a way to the universal desire for redemption.” Letter at 7. It is the artist who is commissioned with this special task or vocation to be the herald of truth, beauty and redemption. In doing so, the artist “enriches the cultural heritage of each nation and of all humanity.” Letter at 3.
“It is the artist who is commissioned with this special task or vocation to be the herald of truth, beauty and redemption.”
Windows to the Divine® is therefore privileged to be an advocate for artists and to promote their singular vocation by offering stellar creative opportunities to showcase their works and forge relationships with collectors. When works are exhibited and sold, artists receive sixty percent of the art sales proceeds and forty percent benefits the Foundation.
1Letter of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to Artists at 10 (April, 1999).
Hospitality for Artists
To nurture and affirm artists in their special vocation, Windows to the Divine® offers warm hospitality through retreat opportunities and special social events for artists only.
Windows to the Divine® 2010 Paint Out Party for Artists
Photos by Ken Juliano
