Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Art/Architecture of Religious Traditions

This is the "The Empty Cross" in Kerrville, TX.  It was designed by Max Greiner to be placed in the Coming King Garden. "The massive open hollow cross symbolizes the Resurrection, the Door, the Narrow Gate, the Strong Tower, the Mighty Fortress and the Light of the World, who is Jesus Christ. God sees mankind through the cross while mankind can only see the true God by looking at the cross."


 Also, at the "The Empty Cross" site is this structure.  "The Great Commission" sculpture, also designed by Max Greiner, "depicts the World, the Word and the Rock.  Jesus Christ is the Word and the Rock who created the World."  It's scripture written on it communicate the essence of the Gospel in the Bible.


 Virgin Mary is also present at the "Empty Cross" site.  Max Greiner handcrafted her holding a crown of thorns to represent the crucifixion of Jesus. There is also room to sit beside her so you may become part of the sculpture.


 Ganesha, carved in 14th or 15th century. In his 4 arms, he holds one of his tusks, two entwined snakes, an elephant goad, & a box of sweets. The broken tusk in his lower left hand represents a known tale in which Ganesha throws a tusk at the moon.


 Interior Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai, UAE shows off Islamic geometric art, which is very popular in many art or architecture pieces.