Art and the Spiritual Path

Can the creation and enjoyment of art be considered a spiritual path?

Yes, but in the Buddhist view its spiritual benefits are relatively superficial.

Great art may elevate the mind and may illuminate the human condition in profound and emotionally satisfying ways, but it lacks the power in itself to induce the lasting transformation of consciousness provided by the practice of the Eightfold Path.

Nevertheless, to the degree that the production and enjoyment of art involves the cultivation of nourishing mental states such as mindfulness and self-awareness, it may be seen as a support for the path of awakening.

This reflection by Ajahn Jayasaro is from the book, Without and Within, (pdf) p. 144.