This is, of course, a very short list. The long list consists of not only the most canonical artists such as the ones listed above, but thousands of lesser know, sometimes local or anonymous artists depicting biblical scenes in their paintings, statues, woodwork or any other art form. Many modern artists also choose the bible as the main theme for their work, and one may find a lot websites dealing with modern biblical art and artists. While most the new biblical artwork is made by and sold to Christian and Jewish art collectors worldwide, in the past this was not necessarily the case. Famous artwork was often commissioned merely for its artistic value, such as the Statue of David by Michelangelo. The statue was indeed commissioned by the Florence Cathedral, but was to be admired publicly by all citizens of Florence.

Made during the Renaissance the statue of David was just one of many artistic culminations of that period. But other periods in history, recent history included, saw the creation of many other masterpieces with biblical influences.

Well known themes in Christian bible art

Christian artwork often depicts scenes from the New Testament and related themes. Many paintings include the images of Jesus Christ, Virgin Mary, winged angles, heaven or hell and many other repeating motifs.

Jewish Biblical art Themes

One of the most commonly repeated themes in Jewish are is the splitting of the sea by Moses (Crossing of the Red Sea), while escaping from Egypt. This particular theme is also the subject of many Judaica artifacts related to Passover. Another favorite subject in Jewish are is Noah’s Ark.

Oh, And I  also have another weakness: Although I do not practice the Jewish religion, I love Jewish Theater- Jewish plays and performing arts have always something to do with the bible.  From interpretations of a biblical story to modern plays and art representing complex an radical ideas it is always an eye opening experience.

If you would like to learn more about the world of Jewish theater and Jewish performing arts I recommend a great site called Jewish Theater.  These guys put a lot of efforts in creating a well organized and updated portal. The name itself is a little bit misleading since you can find much more than theater in Their extensive documentation and reviewing- It’s a great recourse for all performing arts as well as eye opening books’ reviews.

As far as I’m concerned the real treat in the Jewish theater is the Bible on stage section, dedicated to Biblical inspired performing arts. Their trail project in cooperation with the Israeli ministry of education gives some excellent info about the story of Samson as it is shown in the eyes of Jewish art.

This pilot project offers a lot of reading material representing different views and angles , and although I haven’t read all off it yet, I find the post Transformations of Biblical Samson by Prof. David Fishelov very intriguing.

Hope you all find this recourse as useful as I have.