Closer To Truth Can Art Harmonize Diverse Religions?
Feb 4, 2026
Garrick Allen, scholar of manuscripts who traces shared framing across sacred texts; Kutter Callaway, media and theology expert on collaborative art fostering empathy; Jamal Elias, scholar of Islamic visual culture on contested imagery; Oludamini Ogunnaike, philosopher exploring arts in social and metaphysical meaning. They discuss art as a silent theology, paratextual similarities, interfaith collaboration, controversies over images, and art’s role in social cohesion.
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Layered Cross‑Fertilization Binds Traditions
- Oludamini Ogunnaike shows art creates layered cross‑fertilization across traditions like Hindustani and Sufi music.
- Shared aesthetic culture produced social harmony while preserving distinct beliefs.
Teach Religion Through Creative Practice
- Ogunnaike teaches Islam and Yoruba religions through art assignments to build fluency and empathy.
- Do creative engagements like calligraphy, design, and performance to learn another faith's sensibility.
Image Conflicts Are About Intention And Identity
- Jamal J. Elias emphasizes that imagery's controversy hinges on perceived intention and group identity.
- Responses to images reflect policing of authenticity and in/out group dynamics, not just imagery itself.