C. Dustin & J. Ziegler 
Practicing Mortality 
Art, Philosophy, and Contemplative Seeing

A collaborative undertaking between an artist and a philosopher, this monograph attempts to deepen our understanding of ‘contemplative seeing’ by addressing the works of Plato, Thoreau, Heidegger, and more. The authors explore what it means to ‘see’ reality and contemplate how viewing reality philosophically and artfully is a form of spirituality. In this way, by developing a new conception of active visual engagement, the authors propose a way of seeing that unites both critical scrutiny and spiritual involvement, as opposed to simple passive reception.

Table of Content

Introduction: ‘To Perceive the Visible Reality as it Truly is’ Walking: Thoreau’s Prepared Vision The Beatification of the Mundane Turning the Soul Around Kosmos Made Visible: Thinking as Craft A Reverence for Wood ‘That Which Conceals in a Way Opens to Light’ ‘Not Diverse From Things’ Emersonian Engagement

About the author

CHRISTOPHER DUSTIN is Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Philosophy at Holy Cross University, USA.

JOANNA ZIEGLER is Professor in the Department of Visual Arts at Holy Cross University, USA.