Writer and art historian Diana Darke brings to light the largely unacknowledged influence of Islamic architecture and craftsmen on the iconic buildings of Europe
‘If you are building a prestige project, of course you’re going to go for the best, wherever it comes from.’
Richard Gault explores the meaning of an extraordinary mathematical phenomenon
“A simple equation, once brought to life, can yield enthralling, ever-changing intricacy and beauty. Each feature of a Mandelbrot pattern is unique, despite there being an infinite number of them.”
Robin Thomson appreciates the music of Bach and an inspiring new performance of his St John Passion
“One of the stated aims of the Netherlands Bach Society is ‘to breathe new life into tradition’… The richness of Bach’s works is being opened up to the entire world, for anyone who wants to listen.”
Hilary Davies contemplates the work of stained glass artist Thomas Denny and his portrayal of the poet and visionary Thomas Traherne
“Colour in creation is always incarnate… associated with the living spirit of a thing, an attribute through which life glows.”
Artist Simon Blackwood recalls his trips to Turkey in the 1970s with the Beshara School
“At the level of meaning, Mary represents the completely receptive place in which the action of the spirit can bear fruit”
James Harpur ‘takes a line for a walk’ as he remembers the challenges of writing his poem ‘Kells’
“The illuminations seem to embody the chaos of conscious thought and emotion, yet at the same time instil a sense of harmony, of healing.”