Monthly Archives: June 2011

Jesus Is My Homeboy: A Photograph Series

When fashion and fine arts photographer David LaChapelle saw someone wearing a “Jesus is my Homeboy” T-shirt in 2003, he was touched by the simplicity of the message.  It made him wonder who Jesus’ original homeboys (the twelve apostles) were—or … Continue reading

Posted in Controversial Art, Western Art | Tagged | 6 Comments

Jesus Is My Homeboy: The Story That Started It All

The “Jesus is my Homeboy” T-shirt is a fashion trend that peaked in the mid-2000s, when celebrities like Jessica Simpson, Pamela Anderson, Ben Affleck, Ashton Kutcher, and Brad Pitt could be spotted wearing it. I remember seeing classmates in high … Continue reading

Posted in Popular Art | Tagged , , | 13 Comments

Upcoming Topics

Lately I’ve been reading a lot but writing little.  I apologize for failing to keep up with my three-posts-a-week rule.  But to protect myself from accusations of complete negligence, I’d like to show you what I’ve been working on.  I’ve … Continue reading

Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment

Yue Minjun and the Maniacally Grinning Christ

Contemporary Chinese artist Yue Minjun recently completed a series of six paintings depicting key events from the life of Christ, which are on display at The Pace Gallery in Beijing through July 16.  These paintings demonstrate a confluence of Christian … Continue reading

Posted in Non-Western Art | Tagged , , , | 6 Comments

Take a Seat in the Savior’s Lap

“Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavy laden…” This wooden oddity was spotted by an Irish tourist in a Guatemalan arts and crafts shop in 2007.  It was retailing at 5,300 quetzal, or about $700. I must … Continue reading

Posted in Jesus Kitsch | Tagged | Leave a comment

Gospel Illumination for the 21st Century

You’re probably at least somewhat familiar with the medieval practice of manuscript illumination: the elaborate decoration of a handwritten text with illustrations, borders, and drop caps, all pressed or dusted with gold leaf. The term “illumination” refers to the literal … Continue reading

Posted in Non-Western Art, Theology, Western Art | Tagged , , , , | 1 Comment