Religion, science, philosophy and art are like four great highways. Each one can lead us both towards and away from Truth.

No matter which one we choose to take, it can lead us to an intuitive understanding of the divine, the essence of our self and of all things, or it can be a route which is based on falsities. In our search for Truth, we can often become lost—just as much on the highway of art as on the other paths.

Artists often isolate themselves from their fellow humans, and sometimes even consider themselves neglected and misunderstood. Some artists sit in ivory towers—but not securely, for sooner or later they topple. Most artists provide as best they can for their material needs; however, negative attitudes will not solve their problems nor lead them towards the Truth they seek.

Sometimes, artists can become lost in a kind of materialistic individualism which is weighed down by purely personal emotion.  Often, this limits their range of awareness; a level of awareness that allows a higher and inspirational devotion; one which opens up entire new vistas and offers new channels of expression. A deeply implanted pessimism, a determination to consider themselves to be in perpetual conflict with the world: these things can inhibit their potential and obscure the true goal.

All, at some time or another, have experienced the overwhelming impulse to express something which now flashes into their consciousness, and seems clothed in the magnificence of Universal Truth. And yet, how often, even when fired up with the flame of creation, has their understanding, aspiration and heightened perception been turned into a limited, un-inspired and commonplace result.

Connection with the Whole

Unless we understand and recognise our connectedness to the whole, our personal sense of individuality can easily cause us to travel away from the goal of Divine Wisdom. To be different just to ‘be different’ is a trap which can limit the great heights of expression which artists can reach. Perhaps it is the case that to be truly individual, we must realise that we are not. When we realise that we are individual expressions of a greater Unity, we are allowing ourselves to be connected to the magnificent ‘current’ and powerhouse of Truth.  When artists aspire to give a clear and unique expression to the whole, the results can be astounding, and something previously pure and inexpressible is brought down from a great and height to the human perception and consciousness.

Some artists miss out on an intuitive understanding of the significance of life itself. Life is the source of all knowledge. If they separate themselves from the rest of humanity in their own mind, they are then considered separate in the minds of others. There is a potential within each of us which is only waiting to be used. Our talents are often most easily expressed when we are children. As children, we do not feel the self-consciousness and inhibitions that come with adulthood. We feel free and unencumbered to sing, draw a picture, make a funny face or dance. These innate talents can often become smothered and gradually fade away as we grow older.

A Higher Consciousness

Every area of our activity could be directed towards order, connection and unity. Everyone, whatever their sphere of daily action, can be an instrument of creativity to the extent of their awareness of the Oneness of all life, and the realisation that truth is within.

This change in consciousness can be energising, vitalising, invigorating and inspiring. It brings a sense of eternal existence, invincibility, certainty and security. Our fears, doubts and distrust can fall away as if we are awakening from a troubled sleep where everything seemed distorted and unreal.

By trial and error, artists learn to avoid the merely decorative and say what they have to say with a beautiful simplicity and clarity. In this way, the artistic expression will be true to their subject, their mission and to their material. Above all, the result of their sincere approach will be true to themselves. It can take most of a lifetime to learn who their artistic self is, and this they learn in the discipline of their art. Sincerity of purpose and earnest endeavour will produce work of deep and permanent value, and this will be appreciated by the discerning beholder of the work.

The role of artists has often been to express their beliefs and feelings about life and to elevate humanity in the process. Artistic perception coupled with a quiet introspective nature can offer an excellent foundation for the role of art in society. It pierces the superficial aspect of things and touches their secrets. Neither provable nor unprovable, these secrets can open other windows upon other worlds.

The Artist as Prophet

Creative geniuses do make their presence felt amongst us from time to time. Their work often speaks to the spiritual consciousness of an evolving humanity. We might say that artists who can see beyond the limits of their own art are ‘prophets’ and can help humanity advance. The poet, painter and composer can offer a different and higher perspective of life and existence from the theologian, philosopher or scientist. All have felt the truth of their work, and in this, they become much more than gifted artisans.

Here is one final question: what is the relationship of art to religion, science or philosophy? Although the words and methods they use, and their goals may differ, these four ways to truth do connect with each other. Each is useful in its time and place, but none is final, and none alone is the ultimate or absolute in its interpretation of Truth.

It is the same world looked at differently; expressed differently. They speak to us according to what we inwardly seek. Each has its force which cannot be replaced by that of any other; but on a higher plane, these forces meet and merge.

Leonardo da Vinci has been said to be the first to approach science as an artist. Although primarily known for his achievements in these two areas, he also travelled the roads of philosophy and religion. To give another example, the Pythagorean school proposed that “in the beginning God geometrised.” Pythagoras applied these principles in his own experiments and studies. He thought in terms of a Supreme Being—the invisible “Moving Spirit,” which underpins the Cosmos. Instead of emphasising differences, he demonstrated that all ways are essentially the same.

In summary, we could say that it is impossible to separate these four ways. They are so interwoven in essence that they cannot be divided. The scientist who sees Life, Mind and Will in all things is as religious as the theologian, as profound as the philosopher, and as creative as the artist. As we approach the centre of Truth, we find it expressed in several disciplines, The torchbearers of Truth on all four highways light our way.

This brings to mind an inspiring quote from the 19^th Century poet John Keats:

“Beauty is truth, truth beauty, – that is all ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.”