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Toward Thebes, by Wulf Erich Barsh
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| Title | Toward Thebes, by Wulf Erich Barsh |
| Artist | Barsh, Wulf Erich |
| Description | Toward Thebes is an abstract painting which, according to Dr. Vern G, Swanson, is based on the theme of Life in this mortal estate, in which, as the Apostle Paul says, "We see through a glass darkly" (I Cor. 13:12). This life appears chaotic to us, as if we viewed a tapestry from the back-knots and ends and very little design. But when we, in the next life, can see from the front, the beautiful and intricate design will be clear. Thebes, Egypt's capitol city during politically stable times, symbolizes the idea of order coming out of chaos. Barsch has juxtaposed contrasting art elements to give vitality to his painting A hint of God's design is seen in the Magic Square, influenced by the German artist Albrecht Durer. It was scribbled on while the paint was still wet by Wulf's brush handle. These numbers add up to fifteen, no matter in which direction they are counted. Though looking chaotic, they are logically organized, if the viewer will but look a little deeper. Barsch usually does not give an interpretation of his visual metaphors, but leaves that up to the spectator. The Magic Square might represent the 15 Prophets, Seers and Revelators on the earth at any one time. The Greek Alpha and Omega letters at the bottom of the picture represent the Lord Jesus Christ. |
| Medium | Oil on Canvas, 72" x 48" |
| About the Artist | Born in Reudnitz, Germany in 1943, Barsch received his early art training in Hamburg and Hannover. He became interested in the Vienna School of Fantastic Realism and later studied Egyptian and Islamic culture and history, themes that are evident in his art. He received a master's degree in printmaking from Brigham Young University in 1971 and a Master of Fine Arts degree in painting in 1972 and immediately joined the art faculty at BYU. As a leader of the "Art and Belief" Movement, Barsch's works brought forth a new recognition for Mormon Art during the 1980's. |
| Date | DateofExhibition:March3-30,2009 |
| Contributors | Van Wagoner, Kathryn, exhibit curator; |
| Subject | Painting; Thebes (Egypt : Extinct city); |
| Type | Image;Stillimage |
| Format | image/jpg |
| Relation (isPartOf) | Infinite Beauty: An Art Exhibit Inspired by Mathematics. Held March 3 - 30, 2009 Utah Valley University Library |
| Rights | All rights held by artist. |
| Publisher | Published digitally by Utah Valley University Library |
| Identifier | toward thebes |
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