Imagination and the American Mind: Tracing the Borders of Beauty

Image Journal editor Greg Wolfe points out that “the imagination works through empathy, which requires the artist to place herself in the experience of an other--and thus lose herself.” Our imagination, when used well, helps us moderate ourselves, softens our hard edges, and broadens our perspective. No mere vehicle for escapism, imagination allows us to venture more fully out of ourselves.

As imagination takes a different form in each individual, it is the same in each culture--and our American cultural experience has made contributions of its own. With roots in every country, we have forged a society like no other, one that speaks of the human condition with a varied and idealistic voice. We speak the language of freedom, unity, ingenuity, self-determination, and improvisation. This American context has given us an artistic tradition no less varied, free, inventive, and aspiring.

American writers Flannery O’Conner and Edgar Allan Poe in particular had profound and unique effects on the cultural landscape of America. Both portrayed beauty in their art, and both turned it over to see its underbelly. As O’Connor once noted, it takes a true vision of human nature to properly depict the abnormal or grotesque. Conversely, the portrayal of the grotesque in their works and in others’ shows us the invaluable roles that imagination and art can play in leading us to a true vision of ourselves.

It is with this appreciation for both sides of Beauty, and the creative power of Imagination, that we proudly present our theme for 2012, culminating in the Ninth Annual Saint Cecilia Arts Festival: 

Imagination and the American Mind:

Tracing the Borders of Beauty

 We hope you enjoy the show!