Ecstasy of St. Teresa, a mid 17th Century Statue created by Bernini, does a fantastic job of capturing the emotions that art should display, as well as allows opportunity for the viewers to make strong connection and feelings. The councils motive to issue the directive of art having to appeal directly to emotions is a movement that transcended art into a wider audience. The language of emotions, facial orientation, and body language are not only understood globally but tell a story that goes beyond the scene.

Bernini is able to display emotions through his architectural and sculpting talents, alongside his great knowledge of theatre to express St. Teresa in a scene of excessive pleasure. Through the head tilted back towards the sky, and the dropping of the jaw allows the audience to recognize the presence of the Holy Spirit depicted through the emotions displayed by St.

Teresa.   Renaissance art addressed its viewers in a more civilized tone when compared to the message portrayed through Bernini’s Ecstasy of St. Teresa.  Bernini being a man of great Faith, the depiction of this piece was to capsulate the passion and love of God that he holds, and transform it into this piece of art that will be recognized among the greats for centuries to come.

Ecstasy of St. Teresa is less oriented towards the logical aspects of religion, and more in tune with the emotional contagion that is felt through God.   Bernini was able to capture his audiences’ attention, as well as increase the involvement and momentum of his following through utilizing the strong knowledge of both architecture, and the emotions of theatre.

Bernini took his surroundings into the building and created a masterpiece that utilized the space as an extension of his work. The intricate ceilings and ways that the light shined through the window were all encompassed as fundamental details that shaped the sculpture. Other factors that added to the attention of this piece, were the life-size sculptures created in proportion to humans, further emphasizing this strong connection between humans and religion. Keeping the sculpture life-sized and not blowing it up to bigger scales shows the viewers that ordinary people are the ones who walk with God. Additionally, Bernini was able to portray movement within the scene of the sculpture, along with the immense facial emotions producing a greater realism among the audience, all coinciding in creating an immersive experience for people who view this piece of art.