Dialogic Art: The Photographer Peter Sanders on Promoting Understanding

Art is frequently used in interreligious dialogue. Acknowledging the roles artists play, that is, emphasizing them as actors, not merely as providers of artwork, is vital for a richer understanding of the practices of interreligious dialogue. The motives and thoughts of artists about their art, craft and their participation in dialogue are important components that enhance our understanding of dialogue. This chapter addresses the dialogic character of the art of the distinguished British photographer Peter Sanders, who has a longstanding presence in interfaith and cultural dialogue contexts. He found a Sufi Muslim path 50 years ago and is among the most prominent Muslim artists worldwide. In his work, Peter is in dialogue with himself, Allah, the art world, but also religious leaders and variety of audiences, not least taken on the bridging role of translator of Islam to non-Muslims. The importance of his intertwined humanist worldview and Sufi spirituality emerges when Peter Sanders’ art is studied in combination with his discourse about his art. Contexts and, to a certain degree, serendipity have formed the opportunities for Peter to emerge as a seen photographer, but his reasons and underlying ideology are well rooted in his Sufi anthropology.