THE SECRETS OF
Sacred Art
The Secrets of Sacred Art is a podcast that explores the spiritual, theological, and cultural meanings embedded in the world’s great Christian sacred artworks — from ancient icons and Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary expressions of faith in visual form. Each episode invites listeners to look beyond the surface of paintings, sculpture, stained glass, and sacred architecture to uncover the deeper truths these works communicate about God, humanity, beauty, and the soul.
Hosted by sacred artists Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray, the show bridges aesthetics and spirituality with thoughtful, accessible conversations. Rather than focusing on stylistic trivia or market value, episodes illuminate how sacred art has historically been used to uplift the mind, teach doctrine, inspire devotion, and mediate encounters with the transcendent. You’ll learn how symbolism, composition, color, and form work together to express mystery and meaning, and how understanding these elements can deepen your appreciation of both art and faith.
As part of the StarQuest Production Network, The Secrets of Sacred Art reflects SQPN’s mission to connect modern culture with Christian truth, showing how art — one of humanity’s richest languages — can serve as a gateway to prayer, reflection, and spiritual insight. Whether you’re an art lover, a believer curious about the intersection of creativity and faith, or someone seeking a deeper connection to beauty itself, this podcast helps you see sacred art with fresh eyes and an open heart.
This podcast is available in both audio and video formats with the video allowing us to share with you the art as it is discussed.
Send us your feedback at [email protected] and visit us at the StarQuest Media Facebook page.
Listen on your Favorite Platform
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
YouTube
Amazon Music
TuneIn
RSSListen Now
-
A Prayer Designed to Be Seen: The Rosary in Art
How can one prayer shape art, architecture, and history? Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray reveal the Rosary’s hidden presence in paintings, stained glass, shrines, and gardens—plus the battle that helped define it. Together they uncover beauty meant to lead deeper prayer.
-
Beauty in the Palm of Your Hand: The Art of the Rosary
How can a string of beads shape culture, prayer, and art? Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray unpack the Rosary’s deep roots—from ancient prayer beads to Dominican devotion—and ask why this humble object remains such a powerful spiritual weapon.
-
This Advent, Help StarQuest Continue the Mission
Advent begins. Help StarQuest bring faith and reason to the world. Become a $10/month patron (or increase your current donation by $10 per month) and be among the first 400 donors to receive a Mysterious World sticker signed by Jimmy and Dom. Your gift is…
-
Walking the Way: The Stations of the Cross in Sacred Art
How does sacred art shape prayer? Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray reflect on the Stations of the Cross through history, art, and St. Alphonsus Liguori’s meditations, revealing beauty in suffering and grace in devotion.
-
Amadeus (1984)
Is Amadeus really about Mozart—or Satan’s fall from grace? Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray break down genius, envy, and divine music in the 1984 film. A chilling study of pride and the sacred.
-
St. Nicolas of Valencia: A True Hidden Treasure
What if a hidden Baroque masterpiece awaited you behind unassuming walls? Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray reveal Valencia’s sacred marvels and the “Valencian Sistine Chapel.”
-
The Holy Grail in Valencia?
Unearth the real Holy Chalice of Christ in Valencia—an agate cup from 100 BC, chronicled through wars, legend, and popes. Alix Murray and Kathryn Laffrey connect science, lore, and sacred art in this immersive episode. Is the real grail hiding in plain sight?
-
Juan de Juanes: Displaced Sacred Art
When sacred art ends up in a museum, is something lost in translation? Alix Murray and Kathryn Laffrey unpack Juan de Juánez’s Last Supper and the tension between preservation and reverence.
-
Caravaggio: Lost and Found
Caravaggio’s chaotic life mirrors the emotional depth of his sacred art. Alix Murray and Kathryn Laffrey reflect on his realism, chiaroscuro, and rediscovered Ecce Homo. Featuring unforgettable works and a haunting legacy.
-
Breathtaking Basilicas: Sagrada Familia
Discover the breathtaking Sagrada Familia as Alix Murray and Kathryn Laffrey unpack Gaudí’s artistry, symbolism, and sainthood. From soaring towers to hidden symbols, they reveal the sacred story behind Barcelona’s iconic basilica.
-
Antoni Gaudi: As a Tree Stands
How did Gaudí’s faith shape his art and architecture? Discover his love for Catalan culture, Marian devotion, and the divine in design with Alix Murray and Kathryn Laffrey.
-
Our Lady of Montserrat: The Black Madonna
A breathtaking look at the art, legends, and cultural layers of Our Lady of Montserrat and Black Madonnas worldwide. Kathryn Laffrey and Alix Murray unpack symbols, stories, and restorations with insight and reverence.
