Research

Aim

Wonder seeking Wisdom

research

We prioritize intellectual integrity, grounded in critical thinking, empirical evidence, and historically and anthropologically informed analysis. At the same time, we embrace epistemic humility, recognizing that not everything can be fully understood through reason or language. Yet, there remains ample room for more nuanced and refined interpretations of the human experience. We see intellectual discourse and theoretical understanding as vital sources of empowerment and freedom.

Our research explores the relationship between various forms of creative and contemplative arts, from performing arts traditions to mind-body practices. These diverse traditions represent a rich tapestry of wisdom passed down and revitalized across generations.Creative and contemplative arts provide a means to express and engage with the ineffable dimensions of the human experience. They offer access to imaginal realms and states of consciousness that have often been overlooked or dismissed in Western culture. We believe these art forms are key to reclaiming our sense of beauty, wonder, and reverence—without which we cannot truly feel at home within ourselves, with others, or with the natural world..

Perspectives

A core aim of the Institute of Devotional Arts is to unite conceptual and embodied knowledge, merging theory with practice. We actively promote interdisciplinary and intercultural research that embraces the full spectrum of the human experience—body, mind, heart, spirit, imagination, and intuition. We believe that these diverse perspectives lead to a richer understanding of the world and our place within it.

There is beauty, goodness, and truth in all traditions, yet some of the most profound insights are often overlooked by today’s materialistic worldview. These include transpersonal psychology, integral theory, and the study of myth. We believe that many of these insights, dismissed as irrelevant or misguided by conventional thinking, are in fact invaluable sources of wisdom.

Moving beyond rigid traditionalism, scientific reductionism, and postmodern scepticism, we align with metamodern initiatives that embrace felt experience, pluralism, and the interplay of different perspectives. Art and spirituality are essential to a fulfilling life. Indeed, we view aesthetic and contemplative experiences as complementary, elevating our appreciation of existence. To fully thrive as human beings, we must reclaim these fundamental ways of being, knowing, and relating to the world.

Shams-ed-Dīn Tabrīzī
شمس تبریزی

Intellect takes you to the door, but it doesn’t take you into the house.