Becoming by Beholding
In Becoming by Beholding, Lanta Davis displays the power of the imagination in spiritual formation.
This stimulating and sanctifying book guides you through classic works of art to show how the imagination can nourish our souls. While I primarily think of the imagination existing apart from the concrete, Davis shows how stories, visual symbols, and physical places impact our imagination. But not only is art for our entertainment, but it is for our edification.
The Beauty of God
Works from the historic Christian tradition are studied, and I was surprised at how much treasure and depth Davis draws forth. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the page when reading about the strange and beautiful face of Jesus in icons. I was transported when reading about a tour of Chartres Cathedral. And I was shocked to read about Dante’s mirror for the soul and unveiling the ugliness of sin.
Davis focuses on how art fashions our soul, and she does an excellent job of giving exposition to all of the referenced works. She shows how art forms our beliefs, practice, and character. More than ever, I am encouraged to keep my mind on what is good, true, and beautiful in this world – and keep my eyes open to how art shapes my worldview.
An incredibly rich and rewarding academic read, this book will grow your imagination and enlarge your heart to the beauty of God.
I received a media copy of Becoming by Beholding (Amazon) and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.