"Many people are frustrated at their first encounter with a work of art that seems inscrutable or meaningless," notes artist/art educator Stone (Univ. of Texas). "I have a passion to help those who want to be less confused by the art they see to find meaning in art and even, through their encounter with art, to discern in it the Spirit's voice." With this lofty goal, Stone looks at art as the embodiment of the transcendent, providing specific tools to help the general reader look at a work of art in a more detailed and meaningful way (with observations on color, form, composition, etc.), as well as to find a spiritual meaning and connection to the work of art. Employing a Judeo-Christian perspective, she shows how the communal experience of visual art can transform the visible Word to the prophetic Word. She uses examples from Velazquez (Las Meninas), Picasso (Guernica), Goya, Van Gogh, herself, and others and encourages readers to seek examples of their own from art books, galleries, and museums. A thoughtful combination of art appreciation and spiritual aesthetics. ~ Marcia Welsh, Dartmouth Coll., for Library Journal