Creative Christian Blog

Aubrie Haley

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Week 9, 10, & 11

Question of the week

What is “the art world”? Who is involved? Who isn’t? Why?

How important is knowing about the personal history of an artist when viewing their artwork? Does knowing an artist’s religion change the way you understand or appreciate their work?

Has art that has been meaningful to you been made by Christians or non Christians? Is this question irrelevant? Explain your answer.

I think the art world is a world that is composed of like minded people whose focus and intent is to live a creative life in anything and everything that they do and create. I think anyone that wants to be involved in the art world can be but it is not just as easy as saying you are. I think it requires a dedication and commitment to participating in and giving back to the community. Whether that is a time commitment, creating works, or studying the history and world of art.

I think knowing about the personal history of the artist is so important when viewing their work. I think it is so important because I think their history absolutely affects who they are when they created that piece of art and could tell us more about a piece of art that we wouldn’t necessarily understand without that information. I think knowing that information kind of ties everything together in the end.

Art that is meaningful to me has been made by both Chritians and non Christians. I think this question is irrelevant because I don’t go looking for just Christian artists or judge artwork based on if the artist is a different religion. Obviously, when I am looking for art for a religious reason or meaning that is important but in any case as long as the artwork is not bad and does not go against God, the artist’s religion is irrelevant to me.  

Question of the week

How is the art you make different from the art you like to look at or engage with as a viewer?

Has reading the Bible ever provided you guidance about looking at, thinking about, or making art?

Besides the fact that I am not as skilled as the artists I engage with, I think my art and theirs are actually very similar. I enjoy drawing and painting beautiful sceneries and tend to like the more muted natural colors in my work. I think it is very telling where I am in my creative works and journey just by seeing a picture of the work or person I am studying during that time period. Also, I tend to like art and artists that are very detailed in their drawings and paintings. I tend to stay away from the small yet realistic details myself but can appreciate and actually enjoy it when I can look at other artists works’ that display such great detail.

I have touched on this subject in past weeks but I think that the bible provides me guidance in all that I do. Specifically for the art I look at and create, I just want to make sure that it is work that glorifies God. I do not want to create something that questions my character or faith in God. From scripture, we know we are made in the image and likeness of God. I think I use the fact Humans are set apart from all other creation because we are made in His image. We are special and made to be creative and unique individuals in God’s eyes. I regularly use those words to remind me of my purpose and God’s divine plan and role in my life.

Question of the week

How should art be used in church? What should that look like? What shouldn’t it look like?

In what ways does God “renew” our minds?

I think art should be used in the church in order to bring the community and congregation together. I think it should refrain from making a political statement on behalf of the church because then I think the art is playing a role in tension and separation. Instead, keep it focused around the main teachings and understandings of the Christian faith. It should be something that the congregation can use in order to glorify God and welcome believers.

I think God renews our minds by giving us trials, circumstances, or experiences that play a role in shaping who we are. By going through new experiences, we learn new things and gain more knowledge. I think this is a way God allows us to grow and renews our minds. New circumstances allow me to understand new perspectives.

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Manifesto Project

For my project a created a poem to present my manifesto. My poem is a series of 10 haikus. Haikus are small poems made up of three lines. In the first and third line their are 5 syllables and in the 2nd line, there are 7 syllables. This presentation was important to me because a haiku forces you to choose words that are significant and have important meaning. I wanted my manifesto to be to the point an direct because that is how I see my responsibility as a creative. I included a small floral design to present the work because I think flowers are very symbolic of growth and that is how I see my creative journey. 

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How Creative Project

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Week 15

Questions of the Week

What art is most challenging for you? Why?

What makes an artwork good or bad?

I think art that is most challenging for me is definitely art that I feel like I don’t understand or have to work hard to make meaning of. I think art is challenging for me when I don’t connect with it. If it’s too “different” or “out there” I think it's too challenging for me to really appreciate and I do not give it much attention. Abstract art is very challenging for me because I like when the meaning or intention of something is assigned to it already and there is no “work” or thinking for me to do. When I do assign the meaning I come up with, I think about how wrong or off I could be from the artist’s original meaning and intention. It just becomes more work than it's worth and no longer enjoyable. Maybe I am approaching it all wrong.

What makes artwork good is dependent upon what each person thinks is good. My idea of good and bad can be completely different from someone else's ideas especially since I am not in the artistic field and don’t know the proper techniques or certain skills. For me, one thing that I think classifies as good art is if it is a piece of work that sticks with me and I remember. I like art that I can make personal connections with or are very interesting and unique. I think if it stays with me, the artist has done an incredible job of connecting with the audience and pulling them in.

Reading Reflection

In my question of the week response, I said that abstract art was the most challenging for me so it was very interesting that the first sentence, in the essay by Joe Lloyd says, “Abstract painting along with any other type of painting, is not a visual puzzle to be solved or something that is useful because it holds a message that can be extracted from it.” I thought that was such an interesting statement because it really goes against everything that I have ever thought about abstract work. It was like the author was speaking directly to me because abstract art has always been a puzzle that I don’t want to have to solve. It was interesting to have the permission to just enjoy the art for its perceptual beauty.

The chapter, “Art as a Twenty-First Century Calling” was a little confusing for me. I liked the section of the chapter Telling Stories because I think it is so important to understand the power and creativity that entails. “The world wants stories.” To me that means that the world wants personal connection and shared experiences. They want to receive those stories in multiple forms and I liked the example that “Jesus told stories that surprised and jolted and lodged in the memory and changed perceptions.” Artwork comes in many different forms and that is why it is so perfect. I think artwork can tell stories and it has the power to create real change in our world. That is really what I took away from this reading.

Discussion Reflection

In the discussion this week, specifically our break out rooms, we discussed what challenges us in art. Not that it was very surprising but the three of us determined that we each thought abstract art was the most challenging for us. I think that was interesting because we all had the same ideas and reasonings. We resonate more with artwork that painted a clear visual and representation of something that we could notice, right away. So in connection with the question of the week, we thought the article was very eye opening and provided us with more questions than more answers.

We then discussed the second question of the week, “what makes an artwork good or bad?” We agreed that people can determine something to be good or bad based on what they believe it means to be good or bad. In the small group, I said that I think that people judge something in this way based on their upbringing, preferences, morals, values, and faith. I would not be able to determine if something is bad based on technique and skill alone. I do not have the expertise or knowledge to do that so it is hard for me to begin to judge artwork based on those factors. Together, we discussed what we think would classify as bad art and we came up with answers like; nudity, extreme profanity, and any form of work that worships the devil in any way. To me artwork that includes such things is what I consider to be bad. It was nice to engage with my group on this discussion.

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Week 14

Questions of the Week

What types of art are you most drawn to? Why?

Has artwork ever changed your mind about something? Explain.

I am most drawn to nature and landscapes. For me when it is not as abstract, it is easier for me to connect with the artwork and create my own story around it. I think work can be confusing for me which makes it not as enjoyable to look at and understand. Some of my favorite artists or art work bring to life God’s beautiful creation and really demonstrate the natural beauty of our world. That type of art brings me peace so that is the type of art that I choose to bring into my life and surround me with.

I don’t think that art has ever changed my mind about something. I think art has maybe made me look at something in a new way but it hasn't caused me to make a change in an opinion or thought process. I like that art requires me to think but sometimes, I think about how it can be applied to my life but doesn’t necessarily change it. I think I tend to choose art that I am comfortable with so maybe I don’t give art the opportunity to change my mind.

Reading Reflection

In the article, Art as a proper Job it says, “everything we do as artists is related to those people we both love and hate - our audience.” As the audience, I found this statement very interesting. I found it interesting because it is important to realize the role that we play in the art that we love and collect. I am definitely not the artist and I don’t think that as the consumer of the art, I realized the way I can influence or determine what an artist creates. I think that hearing it in this way made me realize that I need to be more thoughtful and respective about the art or creative works that I am taking in. I need to remember that there is a human being behind the work and sometimes I forget that fact. It is not that I am mean and judgemental but I think I could be more mindful and respectful of the work and appreciate the hardwork and dedication.

After reading, Love is an Action Word, it was interesting to see Tina’s work being described as “play”. Not that I disagree, I just guess that is not how I would have described her work initially. “Linville’s work reminds us to stay in the present moment and look for opportunities to play” (Sabo). I think reading another artist's perspective on the work I see has challenged me to look beyond the initial glance of art and what more could the artist be trying to tell me.

Discussion Reflection

In our breakout room, we discussed the art they we both were drawn to and most enjoyed looking at. Wyatt and I both said that we enjoyed looking at and taking in art that displayed more nature and natural landscapes and I thought that was interesting that we both gravitated to that kind of art. My reasoning was that I think that I gravitate towards that kind of art because that is where I see the most beauty in God’s creation. I want to look at art that depicts the same beauty and glory of God that I see when I am actually in his creation. It was interesting to discuss how two people can love and enjoy the same type of art but have completely different reasons as to why it is their favorite. There are endless possibilities and endless opinions and perspectives when many people are taking in a piece of work.

There was definitely a lot that was covered in this week's discussion and I enjoyed being able to cover a multitude of subjects. Specifically, I liked discussing Lynn Aldrich’s interview because that interview gave me a variety of perspectives and things to think about. I liked her perspective on integrating her faith with her work and thought that could be applied to my life in any area. I think after I mentioned in the discussion that having an impact on me and standing out, I liked what Tina said about having that kind of unwavering love and deep connection and faith in the Lord.

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Week 13

Question of the week

What makes art successful? 

I think a lot of things contribute to arts success. I think first, if the audience engages in meaningful conversation and discussion then it is successful. If it brings people together and creates an opportunity for discussion and dialogue for an intended purpose, I think it is successful. If it brings joy or happiness to even one individual, I think it is a successful piece of work. I think it is successful when  the art aligns with Christian values. I think it would be easy to argue that a lot of art is successful, especially if artists are trying new techniques and creating work that is unique. 

Reading Reflection From the interview we read for this week Lynn Aldrich says, “So I don’t set out to have Christian content but I set out to be grounded in my worldview as a Christian.” This was her response to the question, “How does faith come into your practice as an artist?” I loved how Lynn answered and explained her viewpoint and truth on this. I think what I got from her was the fact that her integration of faith in her work occurs naturally. It is not forced and is grounded in her faith. I have a desire to have a faith so deep and so grounded that it just seeps into my work without trying too hard to make it fit. She can bring issues up through her work. Sometimes they are more subtle than not but she has a desire to bring appreciation up in her work, appreciation for God’s extravagance. Another statement she made that I thought was interesting was, “I love words and text and the kind of thinking that you can explore through language. I’m indebted to C. S. Lewis for my conceptual framework for desire.” I think it is very telling that she really looked up to C. S. Lewis because he in his own right was a notable Christian artist/writer. I think that helps me understand the importance of having figures that I look up to that influence my work and are aligned with my faith and values. I think I enjoyed reading this interview because she just seemed so honest and authentic in who she was as both an artist and a Christian.

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Week 12

Question of the week

How can art be made “to the glory of God”? What does that look like? What doesn’t it look like?

I do not think that art has to be religious or completely faith focussed in order to glorify God. I think the phrase “to the glory of God” is overused. I am guilty of it but I think when used, it means work that is honoring to God. I think that artists that glorify God, create art using the gifts that God has blessed them with. I think in some way God has created us all a little creative. Specifically, I don’t think art that glorifies sins, brings attention to the Devil and his temptations, or goes against the bible in any way can be made to the glory of God. I think as long as the art stays away from the darkness and evil and reflects who God is, then it can be made to glorify him.

Reading Reflection

In this week’s Emerge reading I really liked how there was a focus on truth but specifically inner dialogue. I know that my own personal thoughts stand in my way but it is hard to mindfully realize when that is happening and actually making a shift or change. The 3 steps make sense to me and seem easy enough to implement into my life. First, I need to listen to myself and what I am speaking to myself. I want to focus on doing that at a time when I am struggling and at a time when I am feeling good about things. I think it important to compare how and what I am saying when I feel so differently. Second, by documenting what I say, I will be able to evaluate what that is doing to me and what is unhealthy and healthy. Lastly, I can use the information gathered to devise a plan so that in the future, I can acknowledge negative and unhealthy inner dialogue in order to shape my health and well being.

In addition, I enjoyed thinking about the usefulness of technology. It made me think about the role that technology is playing in my life. Something that stood out to me was that because of technology, “we are losing our desire to create new things in the real world” (pg. 117). I think technology has made things so accessible, especially getting ideas and inspiration. Instead of thinking about something and giving it some thought, we all automatically turn to the google search bar or pinterest and what we created isn’t actually our creation.

Discussion Reflection

In the discussion this week, I connected with the fact that technology creates a separation in my relationship with God. When technology doesn't allow me to use my full creativity and gifts that God has given me, I think it separates me from Him. I think that technology can be a barrier in all areas of my life. In the discussion, someone mentioned that they make sure to keep their phone away so the people around them know that they are present. I think in the world we live in, technology cannot be avoided but we can make small steps like that to make a difference.

Another subject that was brought up was “tension being a doorway.” Technology does actually create a lot of tension in my life and I feel like that phrase represents its effect on my life so perfectly. I need to evaluate how useful the technology is that I am consuming. Obviously technology is important for school and my education, but how is social media, and streaming sites like Netflix putting back into my life instead of taking from it? I think usefulness is a word a need to remember in all areas of my life and ask about the usefulness of something often.

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Who Creative Project

Part 1

I am a VISIONARY

On one hand, I get the sense that visionaries tend to be more positive and optimistic. I think I struggle with seeing the good in something and moving past any obstacles in order to make it a reality.

On the other hand, the description really did resonate with me. I realize that I am full of big ideas and like to see the potential. Being charismatic and expressive resonated with me. I connected to the idea that I love sharing my ideas and visions with others and creating that sense of community around those ideas. I also connected to finding the spark in people. I care deeply about others and feel a responsibility to make them feel loved and cared for as they are.

Untapped potential: Using your visions to fuel consistent daily action. When I get to the dreaming phase, I do often get stuck there. Even if it is small steps, I have to take action daily if I want to get to the place I envision.

Part 2

I decided to relabel my computer. When I see my computer, I am reminded of the endless homework, the countless nights I have stayed up, and the many essays I’ve worked tirelessly on. When I see my computer, I want to instead be reminded of the dedication and work ethic I have that is preparing and setting me up for my future. I want to be motivated and reminded of my goals instead of focusing on the stress and negativity. God has a plan and I am following His calling for me.

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Week 7

Question of the week

What is the greatest advantage of being a Christian in the arts? What is the greatest disadvantage?

I think that the greatest advantage of being a Christian in the arts is that Christians have a hope that non-believers don’t have. Not only do they not have that kind of hope but they don’t know what that means or feels like. I believe that this hope allows Christians to take risks knowing that no matter what, there is a greater purpose and a greater calling Jesus Christ. Another advantage is that God serves as true inspiration for our work. He is what gives us our creativity and ideas in the first place and it is special that Christians recognize that in the arts. There is a greater purpose and meaning in their works. A disadvantage of being a Christian in the arts could be that you are not taken as seriously because you praise this “unknown” being. The community could be a little judgmental and not give your art the credit and attention it deserves.

Is everyone an artist? Why or why not?

I believe that everyone can be an artist but that doesn't necessarily mean they should. We all have different strengths and talents given to us by God. We are called to use them uniquely. I think ultimately, it depends on what you consider to be an artist. Is an artist someone who is paid for their work as in an occupation or is an artist someone who just creates pieces? Like I previously said, I do not think that everyone is an artist but that everyone can be creative. Being an artist and being creative are two very different things.

Reading Response Post

As I read this week’s reading, I pulled a major point from the book Emerge that stuck out to me. When discussing gifts and talents, Perini says, “Talent development should bring joy and pleasure to our lives, as it is part of the experience and intended purpose that comes with this playground called Earth” (pg. 31). God gives us these gifts in our life to continuously work on and grow with. He doesn’t give us talents, expecting us to be perfect at them. It is okay to focus on something and work hard to become skilled at it instead of pulling yourself in many different directions. “You will want to focus on your high level talents” (pg. 32). It is easy to get caught up in trying to be perfect at everything when in reality that is not how God made us to be.

Discussion Reflection

Genesis 1:27 says, “”So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” I actually thought of this verse when I was responding to the questions of the week. In our discussion, we talked about the fact that we can only really be artists and creatives because God created us and everything about us. Someone in that large group discussion said that God is the ultimate creator and therefore because he created us we too are creatives. I think this stood out to me because God created each of us for a specific reason and that is why it is okay that we are all not artists. After voicing my opinion going against everyone being an artist, I thought some might be excluded by this idea. If everyone is an artist then why are we special and different at all? We can all be creatives in our own fields and professions. We are to use our strengths in community with others.

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Week 6

Question of the Week

What is the difference between an artist making art for a gallery and an artist making art for their living room?

Personally, I do not think that there is a big difference between an artist making art for their home or a gallery. At least when I make art my intention or method does not matter. I think if I were making a piece for a gallery I would do the same process for my home. Ideas are Ideas and I would create them the same way. I do understand that taste might be different but ultimately you are creating work you love. I do not think this distinction matters because I believe that artists create to create not create to please others.

Where do your ideas come from?

Obviously our ideas come from our brain but I think they really come from everyone and everything around us. We are influenced by everything from the people we hang out with, the music we listen to, and where we live. We make connections with the word that allows us to generate new ideas in our minds. We are naturally always working to solve problems and I think that means we come up with the ideas to do so by evaluating everything around us and pulling them together. I think where you are from is a big thing that influences people and their minds. Ideas are created from what you know and what you know is learned and developed by how you were raised and the morals and values that you have.

Reading Response

I thought that the reading this week really connected to the questions of the week in discussing the mind and our ideas. It was interesting to look more at how our minds and ideas are created as Christians. In the book “Imagine” the author, Steve Turner says, “The Christian mind isn’t created entirely through theology. There is the presence of the Holy Spirit, who generates new attitudes that result in new forms of behavior” (pg. 100). That quote stood out to me because we know that God is always working in us. I believe that God has the power to speak to our imaginations through the Holy Spirit.

I remember reading The Parable of the Bags of Gold, but got to take a little closer look at the meaning this week. We are God’s servants and again, we are called to glorify Him in all that we do. In this parable, it focuses on the fact that our blessings come from Him and we should use everything we have been given to benefit His kingdom and bring glory to His name. To be honest, I don’t understand how this totally fits into our discussion and the questions of the week. Maybe this parable focuses on the “why”. God has given us gifts and maybe this serves as a reminder that we need to know our “why”. As Christians, do we know why we praise Him the way we do? Do we know why we use our gifts and strengths to bring glory to His name?

Discussion Reflection Post

I thought that this week's discussion was interesting because I felt like a lot of people didn’t necessarily agree with me 100% about the question of the week regarding the difference between art in a gallery and art in your home. In our breakout session, a person in my group mentioned that they believed artists can create more personal and expressive art when it is going in their own home. To elaborate, they believed that artists might create to release anger or frustration and may not include those works or feelings they create for themselves. I do agree with this however, I think that artists are who they are and ultimately and all their work is a reflection of themselves and will come out through that.

I also enjoyed our discussions on where our ideas come from. Initially, I just knew and said that they come from our brain but it is so much more than that. The other people in my group had really insightful and eye opening ideas about these ideas that included God’s role in it. A point that I liked hearing about was a member talking about how new dendrites are formed causing sensitivity to new and different experiences. I thought that was very interesting because God literally created our bodies so we can be more open to our surroundings causing different and unique ideas in each of us.

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Gratitude Jars

Gratitude Jars

16 oz

Mason Jars, Acrylic Paint, Decorative Trim, Popsicle sticks, Paper, & Sharpie

February 22, 2021

Description: I struggle with finding time to be creative throughout my day. I don’t make the time to create little things that bring me joy. My “Gratitude Jars” allow me to acknowledge the blessings in my life while expressing creativity. The pink jar has 30 popsicle sticks. Written on each stick is a gratitude prompt or question that I will be answering by drawing a picture. I will draw a small picture of my answer and put that drawing in the blue jar. At the end of the month, I can look back and see all the blessings in my life through my art.

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Week 5

Question of the Week

Is there any type of Art that cannot be done as a Christian? What is it? Why is it Unchristian?

I do believe that there are types of art that are not Christian and should not be done as a Christian. An example of this is sex scenes and nudity in film. I think a lot of people in the film industry consider themselves artists and because their acting is their art, they justify their nudity and sex scenes. However, I do not think that is justifiable. I think that actors both in theatre and in film, who are Christians, need to honor the sacredness of sex, as God tells us in the Bible. Even though they don’t really perform the act, there is an emotional and physical response regardless. Christians should honor God and their bodies by keeping that act personal and between the one they choose to marry. Actors need to be careful and mindful of the

Reading Response

I think the Readings connect perfectly to our question of the week. I took a more specific approach to the question but the readings really answered, for me, how you can determine what art, if any would not be considered Christian. In the book Emerge, by Don Perini, it says, “When you embark on fulfilling the cultural mandate, it must be done in a way that pleases and glorifies God” (pg. 25). I think this guiding principle can be vague to non-believers but as a Christian, you know whether or not a decision or action is honoring God and the person He created us to be. When I do something, whether it is art or not, I am strongly convicted and know if my choices fall in line with the Word and calling of God but I can see how it can be tempting to .

In the book Imagine, A part that really sticks out to me was, “What can we learn as creatives? We are called to bring the invisible, intangible qualities and attributes of the Kingdom into this visible world” (pg, 18). This quote resonated with me because I think in our imperfect world it is easy to fall into temptation and start making decisions that we justify for ourselves and our own personal gain and benefit. Christians need to have a strong personal relationship with God in order to be able to discern whether or not something is honoring to Him. It is not for me to judge, only the Lord. In conclusion, I do believe that there is art that is not Christian and the readings laid out the guidelines for that.

Discussion Reflection Post

I enjoyed this week's discussion because we took a deeper look into “Christian Art”. In my breakout room we started by answering the question of the week. Someone in my group brought up work that is satanic and wicked as being unChristian. I would absolutely agree with them. As a small group, we ultimately concluded that if it does not honor God, it is unChristian. Determining whether something honors God is ultimately up to the individual.

In the larger group, I made a comment that I maybe should have elaborated on and that is that art that honors God should bring joy. I was thinking of and reading Romans 8:28, “and we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” I do not think joy is the only reason we can create art but God is continuously clear in his callings for us. I am more conservative in my viewpoints in regards to this subject but I truly believe that it is our duty to know these callings. That does not mean that art can not be dark and send a deep message but it needs to be appropriate and honor God using the very gifts that He gave us. His Gospel and teachings are joyous ones and we have the opportunity to and are called to share that with others.

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Week 4...

Reading Response

I think I identify with the positions of iconophiles. I definitely support the use of and integration of religious images in my faith. I think however, it is important to note the difference between supporting religious images and art and worshiping them as idols. The line that must be drawn when it comes to idolizing artwork is allowing the art to serve as a reminder to and reflection of God’s grace and the gifts He gives us. As the observers of art we can use it to spark deeper curiosity, understanding, and commitment to God. As the artists, it is important that you don’t love your work more than you love Him. God knows your gifts because He created you and knows what that means for the effect the art will have on others and the world.

I think that being a Christian I value art because it has the power to create community, initiate reflection, personal development, and speak truths. Like I discussed in class a few weeks ago, art does play a role in key issues and problems in our world. I believe it to be a tool that God has given us in order to have His message and word reach many others. I believe that art has the power to make us receptive and therefore allows the Holy Spirit to work deep within us. Art brings me peace like nothing else does and when I am at peace, I am in a place to grow in relationship with God.

Discussion Reflection 2/3

In our breakout rooms and the main group we talked about the question of the week which I appreciated because I think it is important for creatives or artists to understand how they’re work and time can be used to make a positive impact. Oftentimes though, people are quick to pass judgement about how you use your time and resources, especially in art. I did not get to bring this up in the main session but what I think about this topic has changed and evolved since I answered the question of the week because I do not think you need to rationalize the art you make. Whatever you do should glorify God and help His kingdom, but you do not have to justify why you do something to others.

Another topic that came up was Catholicism in regards to iconoclasm and iconophiles and how Catholics idolize Saints or Mary. Being a practicing Catholic, I do not think this is a correct or fair generalization. Paintings of Mother Theresa or Statues of Saints like St. Anthony is a reminder to us, as Christians, of the promises and goodness of God. A question that I have received often is, “Why do you give so much attention or praise to Saints? You guys worship them.” Like I said, Saints serve as a reminder of God’s goodness. Catholics and Non-denominational Christians both like and appreciate testimonies. When I hear about the life of a Saint, I look at what God has done in the life of an ordinary average person. God can take our ordinary and broken lives and make it extraordinary. I believe when you are praising what the artist did, you are praising the artist.

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Week 4

Question of the Week

In a world with so many problems (things like poverty, injustice, racism, sexism..) how do you rationalize spending time and resources on art?

Three points came to my mind when I read this question. First, you can spend your time and resources on creating art that highlights and brings attention to those important issues. Like I said in week one’s question, the role of an artist is to tell a story or express an emotion through what they produce. Poverty, injustice, racism, and sexism are all important topics that can be brought into the spotlight when people create art that makes conversations start. Second, I think spending your time and resources on art is something that brings peace. I know that when I am working on a project or peice of art, I am more calm and peaceful. Maybe not everyone experiences those feelings but drawing or painting makes me a better person. When I settle myself in that way I find myself able to relax and think about what is most important. I feel empowered and I can use that energy to help others. Third, you can use your time and resources to share art with those that are suffering from poverty, racism, or injustice. Sharing that outlet with others facing difficult and trying times can be the therapy and support they need. There are many programs and foundations that use art to make a difference and connect with those that need connection and a safe space.

Discussion Reflection Post

From our first discussion in class, I learned a lot about how I view our nation in regards to religious affiliation. Before, I believed that America was absolutely a Christian nation without giving it much thought at all. After our discussion on Wednesday, which was very centered around this question, I realized that there is more to the separation of church and state. I thought there were some very important points made. One point that challenged and stood out to me was the fact that America seems to be getting further away from acknowledging God and Christianity and Christians in America play a critical role in that development. While talking in our breakout room, I expressed that I think America will always be established and founded on Christian ideals but we are living in a society that chooses not to accept or acknowledge that. I think discussing this topic will encourage me to pray for this country that we may all learn and remember who our real King and Leader really is. Another important thing that I took away from the discussion was the ideas regarding money and artists. Something that I have always thought about and shared in the discussion was how someone puts a value on another person's art. I don’t understand what makes someone's art and talent worth more than another and that is why I have always been skeptical about being considered an artist. Something that I wish was talked about or addressed more was the role of an artist. I feel like that is such an open ended and complex question and I want to know how others would answer it and how an artist would answer it. I feel like that would have just been more clarifying and given me a better foundation for this course.

[aubriehaleycc]

Week 3

Question of the Week

Should a Christian working as an artist feel any more responsibility to make the gospel known than a plumber or politician? Why or why not?

I do not think that a Christian working as an artist should have any more responsibility than someone with another profession to share the Gospel. As followers of Christ, we are called to share the Gospel and glorify God in all that we do. That means in any profession we walk into, we should think about how we can serve God and spread His good news with others. Matthew 5:16 says, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” I think it may be a little easier for an Artist to share the Gospel than a plumber but that doesn’t mean they have more of a responsibility.

Reading Response Post

Living a creative life is something that everyone can pursue. There are a lot of misconceptions as to who can be considered creative so there are many people with untapped potential. Creative works can be something that is new, useful, novel, and original. Creativity is not something that can be achieved without dedication and hard work because in order to live a creative life, one has to be willing to look at their lifestyle and make changes accordingly. In the book, ​Imagine​ the author says, “The Christian Artist will often be an irritant , disturbing the anthropocentric view of the world...” Artists play an important role in starting conversations and debates so it is important to make sure that Christians have a voice in those debates and conversations.

I do not necessarily think of living a creative life as being disciplined and well-trained. I have always thought it meant living freely and on the fly. Making decisions and choices in the moment that seem right. I spent a little while thinking that over and kept asking, “how can someone, who is creative, be well-trained and disciplined?” After some thought, I think being a disciplined creative means consciously and actively making decisions and living a life that engages in curiosity, challenges the status quo, and uses an imagination. I think of myself as a creative person but I wouldn’t say that I am a disciplined creative person. I think that I like remaining comfortable with my decisions and am afraid to take risks, but taking risks is what art is all about. I can see that having that mindset is such an important aspect of living creatively.

[aubriehaleycc]

Week 2

Question of the Week

How does money impact the way you think about art and being an artist?

This is a complex question for me. Something that fascinates me is wondering how someone puts a value on their art or someone else’s artwork. Unfortunately, when I think about someone being an artist, I automatically think they make little money. It’s not something I want to immediately think and I do not think less of someone because they choose to pursue art in that way. Art, and doing what you love does not have to be all about money though. The money aspect is something I need to overlook. Art has the power to change someone's life and art is about creating something meaningful.

Introduction Project

[aubriehaleycc]

Week 1

Question of the Week

What is the role of an artist?

I think the role of an artist is to offer a new perspective and start new conversations. I think artists play an important role in documenting time periods and telling a story through their work. Artists express emotions and feelings through their work.

Is America a Christian nation?

America is a Christian nation. Not only is Christianity the most prevalent religion in the United States but America was founded on Judeo-Christian beliefs. In The Declaration of Independence it says, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights...” When sworn in, the President of The United States takes the oath of office while resting a hand on the Holy Bible.