Description
ACCESUS AD VERITATEM
Book Summary
This work explores the influence of Hermetic thought, theosophy, and Eastern philosophies on the evolution of modern and contemporary art. Through a journey spanning from the visionary figure of William Blake in the 19th century to the fusion of technology and Zen Buddhism in the work of Nam June Paik, Iñigo Sarriugarte unveils a hidden current that has fueled artistic creativity. The reader will find a rigorous analysis of how the historical avant-gardes connected with anthroposophy and other esoteric traditions, offering a new perspective for understanding art.
What is it about?
The book examines the relationship between art and the esoteric, magical, and alchemical currents of thought that have operated in the shadows for centuries. The research begins with the visionary romanticism of William Blake and proceeds chronologically to show how 20th-century artistic avant-gardes, such as abstract expressionism or conceptual art, drew directly from theosophical and anthroposophical sources. The author documents how these belief systems provided a symbolic and philosophical framework that allowed artists to explore new dimensions of reality. The study culminates in the second half of the 20th century, analyzing how Eastern spirituality and Zen Buddhism were integrated into contemporary artistic practices, as exemplified in the work of Korean video artist Nam June Paik. It is, in short, an academic analysis that maps the hidden influences in the history of recent art.
Main themes
- Influence of theosophy and anthroposophy on 20th-century artistic avant-gardes.
- Connection between Hermetic thought, alchemy, and modern artistic creation.
- Presence of Eastern philosophy and Zen Buddhism in contemporary art.
- Study of key figures such as William Blake and Nam June Paik as bridges between spirituality and art.
- Analysis of the hidden current of thought that links creativity, occultism, and religion.
Who is it recommended for?
This book is aimed at art historians, fine arts and humanities students, as well as readers interested in esotericism, symbology, and Eastern philosophies applied to art. It will also be of great use to artists and creators looking to understand the spiritual roots of artistic modernity. It is an ideal read for those who wish to go beyond the superficial interpretation of works and delve into the currents of thought that underpin them.
What this book provides
- A documented and rigorous vision of the influence of esotericism on art, an aspect often ignored by traditional historiography.
- A conceptual framework for understanding how Eastern philosophies and Hermetic thought have shaped contemporary aesthetics.
- Detailed analysis of key works and artists, offering keys to symbolic and philosophical interpretation.
- An interdisciplinary perspective that connects art history, religion, and philosophy.
- A chronological journey covering more than a century of artistic creation, from Romanticism to video art.
Technical sheet
- Author: Sarriugarte Gomez, Iñigo
- Publisher: Sans Soleil Ediciones
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: Art history / art and design styles, literary essays, religion and beliefs, other belief systems, occultism, magic, alchemy, and Hermetic thought
- Collection: Lingua Ignota
- Publication date: March 2023
- Number of pages: 460
- Weight: 1026 g
Editorial assessment
Accesus ad Veritatem presents itself as a reference work for those interested in the intersections between art, spirituality, and occult thought. Iñigo Sarriugarte's study stands out for its erudition and for addressing a subject as fascinating as it is complex with a solid academic approach. For the specialized reader or the enthusiast with prior knowledge, this book offers a unique opportunity to access a body of research that illuminates little-explored aspects of the history of modern art. Its value lies in the ability to build bridges between disciplines and offer a coherent narrative about a current of influence that, although subterranean, has been fundamental in shaping the art of the 19th and 20th centuries.