Art That Unites features artworks from the Vatican Museums’ Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art together with objects from the Thrivent Art Collection. This special exhibition is a rare opportunity to admire 20th century works on paper from the Vatican alongside masterpieces from the past that were their sources of inspiration. It is also the first time that these objects from the Vatican Collection have been exhibited in the United States.
Emerging from Paul VI’s desire to reinstate the vital connections and dialogue between contemporary artists and the Church, the Collection of Modern and Contemporary Art of the Vatican Museums was established in 1973. This young Collection covers a time span from the end of the 19th century up to the present, and includes unexpected masterpieces of the variegated artistic panorama of the 20th century.
The Thrivent Art Collection is a vibrant expression of Thrivent’s history, purpose and values. It contains historical and modern examples of religious and secular contemporary art. Established in 1982, the collection was formed to preserve history and be a shared educational and cultural resource. It features artwork that explores the Christian tradition and culture of humanity, from the 13th century to today.
This exhibition explores modern religious imagination, sacred iconography, and ecumenical conversation. The unique nature of the graphic arts and varying artistic techniques are also examined. Direct comparisons of subjects rendered by different artists offer opportunity to contemplate the unique voices of artists and their cultures along with inspiration between artists through time. Scripture, signs and signals of our culture and faith are explored in eight sections: The Creation of the World, The Old Testament, Madonna and Child, the Life of Jesus (including the Baptism and Passion of Christ), Peace and Angels, The Apocalypse, The City, and Prayer.