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Tracing the Lines Of 20th Century's Varied Influences On Religious Art

The artistic giants of the 20th century -- the Andy Warhols, Jackson Pollocks and Pablo Picassos of the art world -- were known more for their modernist and abstract impulses than their depiction of religious themes.

But does that tell the whole story of art in the 20th century?

That's the question animating an exhibit of 20th century art, "Biblical Art in a Secular Century: Selections, 1896-1993," at New York's Museum of Biblical Art.

The show features artists whose work was often expressly religious in theme -- such as Marc Chagall and Ben-Zion -- as well as such artists as Andy Warhol whose work is rarely linked to religion.

Curator Patricia C. Pongracz said she hopes the exhibit helps counter the "broadly held notion" that 20th century artists had little or no interest in biblical or religious themes. It's a "rediscovery," she said, "a more nuanced approach to the 20th century."
Read entire article at WaPo