Exploring the Symbolic Influence of Western Religions on Digital Illustration Art

Abstract

This paper investigates the influence of Western religious visual traditions—specifically Christianity, Judaism, and Islam—on contemporary digital illustration, emphasizing the ways in which sacred imagery can inform modern artistic practices. By systematically examining elements such as color symbolism, compositional structure, and iconographic conventions derived from classical religious artworks, the study explores how these time-honored visual languages can be reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary digital oil painting techniques. To demonstrate this integration, three concept artworks were created, each drawing inspiration from the distinct visual aesthetics, theological motifs, and symbolic narratives of the respective religions. The analysis of these works reveals how religious symbolism can add layers of narrative depth, emotional resonance, and cultural significance to digital art, transforming conventional visual storytelling into a more immersive and meaningful experience. Moreover, the study highlights the potential of sacred imagery to serve as a bridge between historical artistic heritage and contemporary creative expression, suggesting that digital illustration can both preserve traditional iconography and expand its communicative possibilities in a cross-cultural context. By combining historical understanding with modern technological tools, this research underscores the capacity of digital art to reinterpret, innovate, and sustain the visual language of faith in ways that resonate with contemporary audiences.