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creativity inspired by theology is nearly everywhere, but a tour of St. Peter's brings the first-time tourist to almost a point of overload. The architecture, paintings, frescos and statuary that date back hundreds of years are the best proof of man's creativity. Like the Egyptians, Christian art is based on religion and the creation of a theology that promises transcendence of the "Human Condition" through faith.

A striking example of breathtaking creativity and an artistic statement of faith is St. Peters is Michelangelo's Pieta. It is a marble sculpture of the crucified body of Jesus held tenderly in the lap of his Mother, Mary. The elegance, emotional expression and sadness of this work defy description. Created just seven years after Columbus' voyage to America, this masterpiece lives on 450 years past its creator's death. Here Michaelangelo seems to speak out from the grave: "This is my masterpiece of creativity. It was inspired by my faith."

Of course, human creativity is often inspired by less altruistic motivations. Some people do it just for the money and end up creating nothing much of a lasting value. It is interesting to observe, however, that many who achieve wealth and fame by creating nothing that lasts seem to be somehow dissatisfied. The Hollywood actor, who makes millions in a short-lived blockbusting movie, for example, will want more - to be more involved in the creative process of production. Some become more politically or socially active in the hopes that they can help create a better or more compassionate society. It is as if some higher need is not met simply through making money.

So creativity seems to be our ingrained response to the "Human Condition." From the writer to the artist, from the computer programer to the design engineer, we seem to create in order to both validate our individuality. More importantly, however, for many it is more a driving force somewhat akin to a hunger or craving to bring to fruition that what was previously only imagined. Human imagination and its offspring, creativity, can only be validated through its actual and physical expression. Left unexpressed, it is merely one of the millions of examples of unrequited genius.

Learn more about this author, Jerry Curtis.
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