MOBIA's Mission
The Museum of Biblical Art celebrates and interprets art related to the Bible and its cultural legacy in Jewish and Christian traditions through exhibitions, education and scholarship.
MOBIA creates an environment which encourages interfaith dialogue on the history, meaning and functions of biblical art.
Above: The Annunciate Gabriel
Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company (1892-1900). Favrile glass mosaic. Left panel of the façade of the altar in the Baptistery-Chapel of St. John the Baptists in theChurch of St. Ignatius Loyola, New York City.
Photo: Ben Cohen.
MOBIA's Vision
The Bible has shaped western culture more than any other book. Its impact is far-reaching and has profoundly influenced the history of art. The Museum of Biblical Art (MOBIA) brings to the public an interpretation of art through the lens of biblical religions and an understanding of religion through its artistic manifestations. Over the next decade, MOBIA will become a recognized leader among US museums in presenting a richer understanding of religious art.
MOBIA exhibitions and programs are developed in accordance with the highest museum standards. Presenting biblical art and the traditions that foster it within the context of history and social life, they offer new perspectives in a visitor-friendly manner, integrating art and cultural history, religious studies and theology.
MOBIA organizes temporary exhibitions revealing the extraordinary diversity and richness of art inspired by the Bible through the centuries, including various media (painting, sculpture, graphic arts, mixed media, new media, etc.), styles, artistic movements and schools, etc. We believe that an understanding of biblical themes, imagery, and symbolism is essential to cultural literacy, irrespective of oneís religious background or beliefs. Our goals include presenting an integrated approach that sets Biblical art and the religious traditions that fostered it within the context of history and social life; introducing the American public to subjects of types of art not often seen in other museums; and fostering interfaith dialogue by serving an audience of all religions backgrounds. In our educational offerings, we are committed to meeting the growing need, in the immediate neighborhood and the larger New York metropolitan area, as well as nationwide via the web, for affordable arts experiences designed for children and families, and engaging lectures and symposia for adults.
MOBIA’s traveling exhibitions, publications, symposia and web offerings make our content available nationally and internationally.