Luminous: Conversations On Sacred Arts

 It’s rare that one encounters a soul so vastly creative, and so clearly attuned to the things-that-are. Helena Tulve’s diverse compositional oeuvre finds its common thread in that attunement. She expresses herself with warmth and with precision. Our conversation begins on the subject of the Jesus Prayer and takes right off from there. 

 Kim Haines-Eitzen adds to a rich body of work with her most recent book, an exploration of the desert soundscapes that may have shaped the lives and writings of the ancient desert ascetics. We talk about this, and more, in a conversation I recorded from my forest hideaway in Estonia. 

In his art and in his thought, George Kordis articulates his ideas with breathtaking clarity. And he is one of the world’s great living iconographers. Enjoy this conversation, recorded in front of a live audience at St. Vladimir’s Seminary.

Mona Arshi brings all of herself to her poetry: her background as a human rights lawyer, a family lineage deeply embedded in the poetic, and a keen observation of the world—with a commitment to recognize and subvert patterns within that observation. All this makes her a very special interlocutor on her artistic medium. 

Delve into the artistic journey and spiritual insights of Aidan Hart, a liturgical artist creating stunning works across multiple mediums. Explore the concept of deification, divine principles of logoi, and the power of beauty in liturgical studies. Unpack the challenges of funding authentic sacred art and the importance of integrating art into theological education. Discover the deep connection between art, spirituality, and the Orthodox faith through engaging conversations.

This special tribute episode honors the impactful life of Fr Ivan Moody, discussing his profound musicality, erudition, and infectious joy. Guests share personal and professional experiences, fond memories, and his role in founding the Orthodox Church in Portugal. They explore his collaborations, connections to Serbia, and fascination with Byzantine Commonwealth. The significance of the cross and resurrection in Orthodoxy is highlighted, along with Father Ivan's embrace of diversity and sharing of faith. The podcast also delves into the theme of resurrection in his music, expressing gratitude and playing a piece composed by him.

Vesper Stamper, a talented author and illustrator, discusses the pursuit of joy in difficult times and explores the Targum of Cain and Abel. They also delve into the appeal of young adult fiction, respecting readers and exploring dual storylines that draw parallels between historical events and modern America. Stamper shares thoughts on the relationship between art and faith, addresses the perception of Christians making bad art, and discusses her work and where to find her illustrations.

Award-winning poet Nicholas Samaras discusses his background, writing, and the importance of attentiveness and the sacred. They explore the power of language, nomadic life, oxymorons, spiritual recharging, defamiliarization, prophets, and the concept of the sacred.

On this special episode of Luminous, our host talks with two students in the MA Program at the Institute of Sacred Arts. This is an opportunity to meet two exceptional people, and to hear about the work and ethos of our Institute!

Apart from our enjoying the arts, even being spiritually uplifted by them, the sacred arts are carrying a message, even a “teaching” that we can attune ourselves to receive. Today’s guest is herself attuned to this, among other dimensions of the arts, which she teaches, writes about, and practices herself.