Stephanie and Russell are back to discuss the wild intersection of two unlikely figures - Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Spanish nun Saint Teresa of Avila - that results in the controversial, monumental masterpiece that is The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa (1647-52).

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Gian Lorenzo Bernini, a pure talent with resources to nurture it, thrived without consequence under the protection of the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. His talent, freedom and privilege led him to produce some of the best examples - or THE BEST (depending who you ask) - of Baroque sculpture and architecture. His name is synonymous with Baroque as his work always contained a combination of theatricality, dynamic compositions, opulent materials but most of all craft.

On the other hand, Saint Teresa of Avila who, born into privilege, still faced a restrictive existence as a queer woman in 16th century Spain, yet continued testing the boundaries of her autonomy even under the terrifying Spanish Inquisition. Her courage, faith, her reforming and her legendary mystical visions have come to inspire countless figures over the centuries, Bernini included.

Despite their differences, Bernini and St. Teresa shared discipline and a curiosity that pushed them to the limits of art and/or spirituality - no matter the cost. To this day, both of their shadows loom large in their respective fields and it’s hard to imagine how differently the world would look without them.

And it’s through The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa (1647-52) that their stories are forever cemented in history.

Other works discussed are The Rape of Proserpina, 1621-22. Marble.

Topics include frosting on frosting, architect drama, donkey ears, visions of Jesus in your mirror/soul and . . the return of the God Bod - kind of.

The Art Pantry this week is Marble.

Be sure to listen to all the cuts that didn’t make it into the episode on our Patreon.

The featured music in this episode was “Net content electric ingredients” by Patrick Kilpatrick from the album “Introducing Patrick Kilpatrick”. This album is perfect for Spring - consider supporting his work here!

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