Richard Emmanuel is an artist, activist, and the founder of The Church, an experimental space in Gloucester, Massachusetts, established in 1968. The Church is notable for having no official members, emphasizing individual spiritual journeys and self-discovery. Emmanuel's philosophy encourages personal quests to "know thyself," drawing inspiration from ancient teachings, including those of the Greek Temple of Apollo at Delphi. He challenges conventional beliefs, suggesting that belief systems can create prejudice, and advocates for the realization of the "divine within" each person.
Emmanuel's work is deeply influenced by ancient civilizations and the "aboriginal dream," exploring consciousness through various media, including concept iconography and media assemblages in 2D, 3D, and internet platforms. His creations serve as explorations of consciousness, with significant emphasis on ancient civilizations and the "aboriginal dream" that inspired these narratives.
The Church itself serves as a space for installation art and spiritual exploration, reflecting Emmanuel's commitment to fostering creativity and challenging traditional religious structures. The space is described as a "church of installation art," highlighting its role in the intersection of art and spirituality.
For more information about Richard Emmanuel and The Church, you can visit their official website at thechurch.org.