Isn't it interesting how we covet other peoples gifts. Somehow the things that take extra effort seem more valuable. At least this is what I think. There are some things I know I do well and so sometimes I take these things for granted. Then there are those things that I would like to be good at but it takes me more effort.
Writing is one of those things.
There are so many amazing writers out there that I am almost embarrassed to do this but it is my blog after all, and someday when I can hardly remember my own name I can look back at this and say, "oh yea, that happened then". Hey, some people scrapbook.
So I celebrate a silly but satisfying accomplishment of having something that I wrote published. In print. Paper and ink, and all. Ok, I admit it is a tiny little magazine that has a very limited readership, but still...
It is mine.
The actual article (which began as a blog and is the utmost in "preachy writings") continues here...
Letters To The Artist:
Art as an Act of Worship
As artists we need to understand the difference between production driven art and self expression in the current church culture. For the visual artist in ministry there is a delicate dance between the creation of art for the sake of communicating an idea and creating art as a response to God. These are two very different approaches to creating. I believe they can coexist and sometimes overlap but need to be recognized as different. Intentional, theme related communication through visuals targets the viewer for a response. There is a goal. You create imagery to illicit an emotion, feeling, or to convey a thought. So, you begin with this as your objective. This is one way to do art.
There is a second way, creating art strictly as a personal act of worship. This second option is not deadline driven or theme directed. It is unfettered by thoughts of what others will think, or more importantly, what I want them to think. What does a pure artistic act of worship look like? For me, it starts with a prompting from the creator. I have found that if I am in tune to my creator and follow the inspiration within that moment something truly amazing happens. Not only am I rewarded with a sense of fulfillment that takes place at finishing a work of art, but I have a very strong sense of being with God. The act of creating becomes an act of worship and is like being in the presence, your hands guided by the master. As an artist, I am blessed. And the finished piece becomes a blessing to others.
The global church recognizes that visual art in various forms can bring people closer to their creator. However, I fear that art can easily become the next "flavoring" in worship. Especially in North America where theme is usually where a service starts. What could be a prophetic voice can instead be reduced to an "ingredient" to the program/service or just sermon support. What I find most dangerous about this is what can happen to artists serving in this environment. If their church is attracted to formula it is easy for an artist who has a willingness to serve God with their art, become only production oriented and neglect their self expression under the momentum that production often requires.
Our present consumer culture drives this. The artistic ego is more than happy to play along as it thrives on approval and may sacrifice artistic convictions on its altar. The unhealthy cycle that results is artists who settle for the affirmations of man instead of God, and art that, although it looks really good, may fall short of what God intended. Left unchecked this can leave an artist with an empty well, and a practiced skill of just making things look pretty.
How then do we serve as artists? Understanding ourselves and how we are called to serve is key. Some artists don't do well with theme driven production and need a venue for self expression. Art as an act of worship is alot like a spiritual discipline. Think about what fills your creative well and see how it lines up with the ministry in your church. Resist the urge to just be "plugged in".
A few things to consider as you understand your role as an artist in the church.
1. If you are creating art for your local church because you think "you are the only artsy one" but don't feel called, move aside for someone who is. And then (putting ego aside) affirm them.
2. If you are plugged into an art ministry for the sake of approval, get out. This is sin.
If you are inspired to create a work of art that doesn't appear to have a place in your church, create it anyway and then offer it to be used in a service or event that may be appropriate. This is an act of worship.
3. If creating beautiful sermon support graphics week in and week out doesn't inspire you like it used to, take a break and avoid creative burnout.
4. Remember being an artist is a divine calling just like being a pastor.
5. Take the time to fill the well. You're an artist not a work horse.
6. If you grumble everytime the pastor comments on your art, then maybe you need to take a break.
Seek out artistic opportunities to serve the global church.
Hey brotha,
Glad to have stumbled upon your site. Im in the "filling the well" stage of art worship. Im absolutely addicted to Sky Dad, but I was teetering on the edge of burnout for a couple weeks. Thanks for sharing your experience. Words of wisdom that I do Hear. Also, take a look at www.ecclesiax.com That's the tribe I dance with.
Peace brother,
jacob thomas cowling
~become un-spun and up-hung your yoke~