Museum of Biblical Art

One day I would like to visit the Museum of Biblical Art in New York City. The current exhibit is featuring "The Art of Forgiveness." To the right is Benton's -Return of the Prodigal Son-1939:

Depicting the biblical story from Luke 15 of the loving father who forgives his wayward son has inspired artists through the centuries. MOBIA is currently presenting an exhibition dedicated to this theme, featuring works from the Renaissance to the present day. More than 50 prints, sculptures, and paintings by artists including Rembrandt, Pietro Testa and James Tissot provide a wide-ranging overview of the impact this theme has had on the history of art. One section of the exhibition is dedicated to the private collection of Jerry Evenrud, a musician and art enthusiast who has collected artworks depicting the Prodigal Son.


Upcoming Exhibition March 5-July 13, 2008 will feature Realms of Faith, Medieval Art from the Walters Art Museum. Much of the artistic legacy of the Middle Ages in Europe (ca. 500 to 1500 A.D.) was connected to religious practices and traditions. Yet art museums often present works of medieval art from an aesthetic point of view, neglecting to address the question of their original function in religious rituals. MOBIA's exhibition will present a selection of medieval works from the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, one of the largest and finest collections in the United States, interpreting these in the context of their use in Christian liturgical practices and personal devotion. Above left is an icon of Christ. Russian 16th Century. Tempera on Panel.