The appreciation of art is something all human beings are capable of, being the rational creatures we are.  Our powers of reason and deduction, paired with an innate sense of the aesthetic qualities that stand in the place of beauty and truth, make us capable judges in matters of artistic expression.  How, then, can opinions vary so much on how to discern art from ugliness? Especially in the post-modern period that glorifies reflections of broken icons of the past, revisits old themes with disdainful new representations, and often ridicules long held institutional beliefs and messages and symbolism — so many of today’s so-called works of art may actually be nothing but snarky garbage produced by charlatans who have pulled the proverbial wool over the eyes of those who wish to be known as expert appreciators of art.  

To make a point to the contrary, allow me to present one of the world’s foremost appreciators of true art, Sister Wendy Beckett.  I first noticed her while watching public programming on satellite tv one Sunday afternoon, and was instantly captivated by her insights into the works of the artists she interprets.  The way she breaks open the complex symbols in the paintings, and what they stand for, illuminates the works of art, bringing clarity to the mysterious aspects that cause us to gaze upon them time and again. Enjoy the following video featuring Sister Wendy in Italy: