Truth, Beauty and an Introduction to Kitsch

          When it comes to Truth, I am an absolutist. I believe that all Truth is found or derived from a proper reading of the exhortations, stories, wisdom and values of the Bible. But when it comes to art, I am a pluralist. I believe that there is more than one type of “good” art and that there’s more than one way to evaluate it.

          Enter kitsch. Understandably, it’s not a commonly-known word. Its definition is “something of tawdry design, appearance, or content created to appeal to popular or undiscriminating taste,” (according to Random House).

          So kitsch is not just defined by its creator, but by its recipient. Whether it’s a certain medium, socio-political or philosophical stance, or any singular aspect to a work of art, it’s all recipients want, even to the point where real Truth and beauty may not even matter anymore. Kitsch is something that both Christians and non-Christians can and do, unfortunately, subscribe to.

          We can often find kitsch in cliche slogans, bumper stickers, and all over “shared” images of “life lessons,” petitions and agendas on Facebook. We hear words of kitsch spoken on talk shows and in some sermons that are more so pop psychology or tradition-oriented than Scripture. We find kitsch written in books on an equal shelf in bookstores (both Christian and Barnes & Noble) as the good stuff of Truth and beauty. And then there’s music, where it’s all about what sells.

          Kitsch is a threat to truth/Truth, because truth/Truth is mostly boring or painful, but never popular. Kitsch is a threat to beauty, because creativity, innovation and originality don’t always sell. Currently, it helps to oversimplify complicated socio-political and theological issues, discouraging wisdom and grace and encouraging anti-intellectualism and prejudice. There’s no longer productive conversation and debate, but only cheap (and sometimes crude) witticisms and fights on Twitter.

          As Christians (and others, too!), let’s not rely on kitsch, no matter how agreeable and inspiring it may be. Let’s set Scripture as the source and standard for truth/Truth, and let’s strive to appreciate the beauty of creativity of and for the Creator. In doing so, we can wise and gracious bearers of Truth and beauty.