The Artistic Sphere: The Arts in Neo-Calvinist Perspective

While some Christians have embraced the relationship between faith and the arts, the Reformed tradition tends to harbor reservations about the arts.

However, among Reformed churches, the Neo-Calvinist tradition–as represented in the work of Abraham Kuyper, Herman Dooyeweerd, Hans Rookmaaker, and others–has consistently demonstrated not just a willingness but a desire to engage with all manner of cultural and artistic expressions.

This volume, edited by art scholar Roger Henderson and Marleen Hengelaar-Rookmaaker, the daughter of art historian and cultural critic Hans Rookmaaker, brings together history, philosophy, and theology to consider the relationship between the arts and the Neo-Calvinist tradition. With affirmations including the Lordship of Christ, the cultural mandate, sphere sovereignty, and common grace, the Neo-Calvinist tradition is well-equipped to offer wisdom on the arts to the whole body of Christ.