Wilmette Institute

In her talk, Dr. Perry will discuss how art and religion have had a dynamic and intertwined relationship over the centuries. It provides a fascinating field of study for those interested in the artistic dimensions of religion, or in the religious/spiritual dimensions of art. Art and religion, while remaining distinct categories despite some remarkable overlapping, have influenced and enhanced each other. But they have also provided arenas for conflict. In a Bahá’í context, there are new opportunities for the convergence of art and religion. Dr. Perry will focus on theoretical as well as actual ideas and examples.

Read a summary of Dr. Perry’s talk here

Anne Perry, PhD

Professor, The Art Institute of Dallas

After two interdisciplinary MA degrees, I pursued my PhD in Aesthetic Studies, with a focus on both art and religion. I teach writing, humanities, and film and art appreciation at the Art Institute of Dallas and two community colleges, as well as serving as an instructor for the Wilmette Institute. I have published essays, fiction, poetry, and biography and recently created a publishing avenue, Nine Petal Press. With my husband Tim Perry, I created the documentary film, “Luminous Journey: ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in America, 1912” and am now working on “‘Abdu’l-Bahá in France” as well as a book about poet Roger White. Among my favorite research subjects are ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s travels; Sarah Farmer and Green Acre history; women and peace; intercultural understanding; and the arts. Listen to Anne’s interview on ‘A Bahá’í Perspective’ podcastSee Faculty Bio