Maurits Cornelis Escher (1898-1972) was a Dutch graphic printmaker. He was raised and educated in the Netherlands with degrees in architecture, decorative art and the technology of his day. His unique Modernism was influenced by mathematics as evidenced by his many tessellations, a pattern of repeated shapes without gaps. This lack of gaps in his works like Symmetry Drawing No. 110, has led to many gaps, challenges and discoveries in the understanding of the viewer. A New York Times review advised that you should explore this art in small quantities at a time to avoid having our eyes cross and I add possibly cross in more ways than one. I add also that his color choices were often stunning and deserve mention here.

M.C. Escher’s body of work including tessellations, infinite staircases and illusions impacted the pop culture of his day. It was displayed on posters and album covers then and is hung in prestigious museums and galleries now.

The inside out and upside down art of this maker can inspire us to loosen the ties on our perception on the ways of the world. Bidden or not bidden, God seems present in this creativity. In viewing this art, we may find clarification on the questions Escher poses and stronger, examined and faithful answers within the fallacies of the human condition and culture he pictures. The work of M.C. Escher could be a dizzying invitation to again claim and affirm the tenants, practices and wonder of our faith within the mystery and good news of God. May it be so.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church