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Alfred Manessier: Composer in Colors
Visual Art Exhibit
Alfred Manessier: Composer in Colors
Exhibit: October 1, 2023–May 11, 2024
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary–Charlotte
The Leighton Ford Initiative for Art, Theology, and Gospel Witness is delighted to host Alfred Manessier: Composer in Colors, a visual art display that includes the Suite de Pâques, a series of fifteen abstract images, many consisting of luminous color radiating from beneath dark latticed patterns, and several other lithographs. The exhibit introduces Manessier as an important artist of faith whose art displays vibrant witness, a model of hope in a world searching for meaning.
About the Artist
Alfred Manessier (1911-1993) was a non-figurative French painter and stained-glass maker associated with the Lyrical Abstraction movement. He is known for his vibrantly colored lithographs—prints made using prepared stones—many of which are featured in this exhibit.
In 1943, Manessier experienced a religious awakening during his visit to a Trappist monastery. Soon after he converted to Catholicism and had a fertile period of abstract painting with luminous colors. His non-figurative works are not simply an exercise in formal elements of color or design, but evoke the central narratives of his Christian faith. The titles of his works allude to the religious meaning made evident through combinations of symbols, color, and abstract imagery, with an emphasis on Jesus’ Passion and the Easter story.
From the Exhibit
La Jardin des Oliviers (The Garden of Gethsemane)
Alfred Manessier
Les Tortures (Jesus Tortured)
Alfred Manessier
La montee au Calvaire (Mount of Calvary)
Alfred Manessier
Le crucifiement (The Crucifixion)
Alfred Manessier
Le tombeau vide (The Empty Tomb)
Alfred Manessier
Le message de l’ange (The Angel’s Message)
Alfred Manessier
L’apparition a Marie de Magdala (Mary Magdalene Sees Jesus)
Alfred Manessier
Location
The exhibit will be on display at the Charlotte campus of Gordon-Conwell from October 1, 2023 to May 11, 2024. Anyone is welcome to visit between 9am and 4pm, Tuesday through Friday. Upon arrival at Gordon-Conwell (14542 Choate Cir, Charlotte, NC 28273), simply ring the bell by the front door and indicate that you are there to view the art exhibit. The Manessier exhibit is located on the second floor, and there is other art on display throughout the building, so feel free to have a look around.
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary—Charlotte Campus
14542 Choate Circle Charlotte, NC 28273
Charlotte Campus
This exhibit is on loan from the Bowden Collections, and we are grateful to Bob and Sandra Bowden for their generosity and flexibility in allowing Gordon-Conwell to enjoy this exhibit for the 2023-24 academic year.
Wes Vander Lugt
Exhibit Organizer and Adjunct
Professor of Theology
Have Questions?
We look forward to seeing you in Charlotte! If you have any questions about the symposium, please feel free to reach out.