Photographs Capture the 'Art of Devotion'

Photographs by Brad Elliott of locations and objects used in worship will be featured in the Reynolds Gallery holiday exhibit, “The Art of Devotion” from Nov. 11 through Jan. 18, 2003.

Assistant Art Professor Lisa DeBoer will give a lecture in conjunction with the exhibition at 3 p.m. Nov. 15 in the gallery. An opening reception will follow the lecture. All the events are free and open to the public.

Images of local houses of worship and devotional objects will range from traditional pieces, such as churches and crucifixes to contemporary, such as places in nature and songbooks. In addition to the photographs, there will be a selection of traditional and contemporary devotional artwork on display from local artists.

“Our hope is that this unique exhibit will reveal to both the local and Westmont communities the abundance of the diverse, theological beauty there is to be found here in Santa Barbara,” Reynolds Gallery Director Tony Askew said. “The participation of local churches will only enhance the idea of community and a sense of unity in our worship.”

Elliott received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial Photography from Brooks Institute of Photography. For the past 15 years he has been the campus photographer for Westmont, in addition to working throughout Southern California as a free-lance photographer.

DeBoer will be introducing the ways in which Christian communities have understood and used the visual arts. Using texts, images and conversation, she will explore the theologies and practices that have been a part of the Christian church’s history with the visual arts.

For additional information, contact Reynolds Gallery at (805) 565-6162 or the office of public affairs at 565-7057.