stephanie-barenz_house-is-built.jpg Loading Video . . . Responding to Proverbs 24 and the metaphor of the home, artist Stephanie Barenz explores the story of wisdom within her work. Proverbs 24 A House is Built By Stephanie Barenz Credits: Curated by: Charis J. Carmichael Braun 2016 12 x 16 inches Acrylic, ink, pencil on panel Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This painting is completed on a 12″x16″ wood panel with acrylics, ink, and pencil. I began by laying down a drawing in pencil and working back into it with a neutral palette of acrylics. I used water to dilute the paint to the point where it worked more like watercolor rather than acrylic. The pencil is laid on top of the acrylics, in order to bring out various details. As you can see, my process is a merging of drafting, drawing, and painting. The piece was then sprayed with an archival, kamar varnish in order to seal it. I chose Proverbs 24 as a catalyst for this mixed-media painting. I loved what verses 3 and 4 had to say, “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” I built the narrative of my painting around these verses. The image I worked from is of a neighborhood in Milwaukee, which is where I currently live and have my home. The extension lines that are coming off of the houses, highlight Proverbs 24’s message of applying the wisdom that is grown at home to the communities that we are a part of. As the chapter outlines our home is where our characters are formed. Our characters will either have a positive or negative impact on our communities. As Proverbs 24:28-29 states, “Do not testify against your neighbor without cause— would you use your lips to mislead? Do not say, “I’ll do to them as they have done to me; I’ll pay them back for what they did.” This is the wisdom that I want to fill the rooms of my home with. It is my belief that this kind of wisdom will help to form more vibrant and healthy shared collective spaces. I am grateful for the opportunity to have created a painting for Spark and Echo Arts that will forever remind me of this message. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Stephanie Barenz is an artist who makes mixed media work about place, sojourning, and storytelling. She received her MFA in Visual Arts from the Samfox School of Art of Design at Washington University in St. Louis and her B.A. in Art from Bethany Lutheran College in Minnesota. Her work is informed by her own experiences with sojourning which have included living abroad in Florence, Italy and Hangzhou, China. She grew up in Texas, Nebraska, and Wisconsin and has enjoyed living in several other midwestern cities. She currently lives with her husband, Zach, in Milwaukee, WI. Barenz has completed artist residencies through the Students Artist League of New York, the Pfister Hotel AiR program in Milwaukee, and at the Chicago Printmakers’ Collaborative. Her work has been acquired by notable public collectors, such as Northwestern Mutual and Alverno College and has private collectors across the United States and in Europe. Her paintings have been exhibited at the Milwaukee Art Museum, Museum of Wisconsin Art, Dean Jensen Gallery, the John Michael Kohler Art Center, Expo 72 in Chicago, and more. Barenz’s work has been featured in The Artist’s Magazine, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, MPTV, Milwaukee Magazine, the Huffington Post, among others. Learn more by visiting her website www.stephaniebarenz.com Website Stephanie Barenz About the Artist Stephanie Barenz Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . This rich painting and its accompanying poem of the same title both examine the relationship of Moses as an intermediary between God and the Israelites from Deuteronomy 5:6-22. Deuteronomy 5:6-22 Moses and The Commandments By ShAy Black Credits: Creative Writing Genre: Poetry Curated by: Davelyn Hill 2021 30 x 40 inches Mixed Media, Acrylic Paint, Gold Paper Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link How does one use paint to artistically talk about the ten commandments? Great question. The answer is: by starting off intuitively with pure mark-making , adding mixed media and acrylic paint using a lot of light and darkness. "Moses and The Commandments" explores the relationship between God, Moses and the Israelites. The background is a mixture of red, blue, black and gold signifying the appearance of the wilderness. Moses, painted larger than life, assumes the role of himself as the physical representation of the Israelites. Moses told his people: "The Lord gave us these commands and only these" (Deuteronomy 5:22). He embodies all that is good from God; his honor indicated in the painting by a slight tilting of his head which also corresponds to him looking over his people. I wanted the shimmering of rays to personify God's presence speaking from the dark, fiery clouds. I created the tablets out of gold paper — translating what was spoken from God and written on the stone tablets. The Ten Commandments are the golden rules for living; by which we demonstrate our love for God and others. My mother instilled in us love, compassion and selfless service. The biggest lesson I remember her saying was: "Do not do to others what you do not want done to yourself." She truly had a love for people. A woman after God's own heart. I am learning to be as gentle as her by continuing to carry Moses' torch, adhering as closely as possible to God's commandments. These simple orders of instruction are used to maintain peace and harmony among people. The image of Moses in this painting remembers his obedience and sacrifice to be used by God. He is a constant reminder of how much sacrifice he endured for his people in the wilderness. His obedience shows through his eyes: the desire to love and be loved by God. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Sharon Black (also known as ShAy Black) is a poet, visual and spoken word artist. She creates her work from her home studio, ShAy Black Expressions of Everything Art LLC, in Greenville, South Carolina. After returning home from deployment in 2004, she decided to pursue her passion in all art forms. She specializes in mixed media, abstract and pictorial paintings, utilizing acrylic, and watercolor. ShAy also creates metal and clay sculptures. She received her Bachelor of Fine Art from Converse College. Her work is on display at her website, www.iamshayblack.com . She has been a part of two poetry slam teams “Say What” in Greenville, SC 2019 and Team Injustice in Spartanburg, SC 2018. She has featured her poetry at Wits End Poetry in Greenville, SC, Blues Boulevard in Spartanburg, SC, Poetry in Hiphop in Greenville, SC, Blue Note Poetry in Columbia, SC, and Bless The Mic, in Columbia, SC. Her art has been displayed at Reys, Spartanburg Library, Converse College Milligan Art Gallery, Greenville Technical College, Artistry Gallery, Metropolitan Arts Council and The Art House art walk. She also won a Wits End Poetry end of the month Slam 2019. ShAy writes and paints with the aim to inspire others to become their own inspiration, like herself, who manages loss, depression, and anxiety with her art. Her poetry and paintings symbolize the beauty of life’s imperfections, self-love and the magic of undying hope. Instagram: @iamshayblack Facebook: @TheOfficialIAmShAyBlackFan Website ShAy Black About the Artist ShAy Black Other Works By Read the accompanying poem. Moses-and-The-Commandments-by-ShAy-Black.docx .pdf Download PDF • 56KB Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Video installation artist Kristen Studioso responds to the theme of "Fools" from Ecclesiastes 2:14-16 with her video installation. Ecclesiastes 2:14-16 Stairs By Kristen Studioso Credits: Curated by: Janna Aliese 2013 Art Installation Video Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Ecclesiastes intrigues me, for the way it seeks answers, only to conclude none exist. That none have ever existed- and that neither have the questions. These verses in particular correspond to an experience I had while traveling with a mentor in Prague. As we climbed a narrow, spiral staircase to a cathedral's highest point, we talked of the monotony- or meditation- of so many, seemingly ceaseless stairs. The stone steps, worn by years of use, seemed to provoke questions. What did we do before elevators? Why did we want to climb these stairs? The steps, tired and cold, offered no answers. Or questions of their own. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Kristen Studioso is a video installation artist living and working in New York City. She holds bachelors degrees in Philosophy and Studio Art from Bethel University (2009), and recently finished her MFA at Hunter College (2012). Since then, Kristen has had a solo show at First Things (Sept. 2012), and has participated in various screenings, including at Entwine and ConArtist (both NYC) and during Rundgang at UDK (Berlin). Additionally, Kristen showcased her work in the inaugural VIP MFA Art Show. At present, she is continuing her individual work and also collaborating in writing, curating, and creating with fellow artist, Matthew Cianfrani. Website Kristen Studioso About the Artist Kristen Studioso Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

! Loading Video . . . Responding to the theme of "Harvest" from Ezekiel 47:12 and Matthew 13:23, Sammy Levine's beautiful film explores a tea company and considers the benefits of tea and the community it builds. Ezekiel 47:12 Matthew 13:23 Leaves By Sammy Levine Credits: Video and Editing by Sammy Levine Music by Jeffrey Leiser Curated by: Jeffrey Leiser 2013 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link ! Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection ! Website Sammy Levine About the Artist Sammy Levine Other Works By ! Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work ! Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Fertile Field Ashley Daneman Loading Video . . . Acclaimed jazz vocalist Ashley Daneman's "and the fertile field..." is a personal and poignant response to Isaiah 32:15. Isaiah 32:15 and the fertile field… By Ashley Daneman Credits: Artist Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan Curated by: Janna Dyk 2011 4 x 4 feet Acrylic and vinyl Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link till the Spirit is poured on us from on high, and the desert becomes a fertile field, and the fertile field seems like a forest. -Isaiah 32:15 Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection A late career start and plenty of interesting life turns have caused Daneman to go deep with her blend of jazz and modern folk debuting “a publicly intimate recording that is frank and unapologetic. Beauty Indestructible is a collection of nine original "spirit poems" scored and written by Daneman, existing as an intensely personal song cycle. Daneman addresses the fundamental healing power of love” (C. Michael Bailey, All About Jazz). Drawing comparisons to Becca Stevens, Laura Nyro, and even Stephen Sondheim, Beauty Indestructible is summed up as “beautiful jazz art music from a gorgeous voice with superb accompaniment” (Mark S. Tucker, Folk & Acoustic Music Exchange) and as “a profound work of art that is so alive, so positive, and so blessedly musical” (Richard Kamins, Step Tempest). “Charming and enchanting with its offbeat/outside the lines sensibilities, [Beauty Indestructible] is killer stuff that’s sure to resonate with the gypsy in your soul” (Chris Spector, Midwest Record). Website Ashley Daneman About the Artist I’ve Got All the Light I Need Ashley Daneman Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Reminiscent of Ecclesiastes, this surreal play written by Laura Pittenger dabbles in the absurd as it spins a new parable in response to Micah 3:1-12. Micah 3:1-12 The Flesh From Their Bones By Laura Pittenger Note: This play contains some descriptions of violence and may not be suitable for all audiences. Discretion is advised. Credits: The Man, The Replacement by Stephen Lyons Michael by Ryan McCurdy Stage Directions by Laura Pittenger Audio Mixing by Stephen Lyons Artist Support by Cole Matson Dramaturgy, Moral Support by Meron Langsner, Claire Pittenger Artist Headshot by Erik Carter Photography Curated by: Michael Markham 2017 One-Act Play Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link When I read this passage from Micah, I am immediately struck by his frank condemnation of the actions of those in power. The writer speaks directly to the heads of Jacob, the princes of the house of Israel: “Is it not for you to know judgment?” – meaning, God will judge you, too, despite what you may believe. He goes on to add that the seers will be “ashamed,” the diviners “confounded,” and that the “sun shall go down over the prophets, and the day shall be dark over them.” These are strong words, and leveled against the most powerful people in the country. It seems clear to me that Micah the prophet, in his warnings against the leaders of the people, could not have been a popular man. It’s uncomfortable to confront the times that we have failed to act with justice, especially towards those who are not as powerful or popular or even just as fortunate as we are. But Micah demands that we do it, not just for the sake of others, but for the sake of our own souls. He begs us to listen and understand his warnings. We live in a world where the powerful are not always just, and the righteous are not always powerful. The responsibility and hard work of fighting injustice frequently falls to the least among us, and to the oppressed themselves. Often, the battle is lost, but the fight continues by those willing to pick up the flag and keep going. But by what means? Activists have argued for years about the means used to protest injustice – is violence ever appropriate? What constitutes a peaceful protest? Can people judge people, or can God alone be the final judge? I sought to ask those questions (and hint at some answers) in a parable of a young man, Michael, who arrives at the offices of “The Man” (a mythical manifestation of power in pop culture) in order to kill him, thereby killing the seat and seed of all injustice in the world. But The Man is more than ready for him, willing to listen to Michael’s arguments but just as easily shooting them down. Michael is frustrated, but persists, eventually taking drastic action, which in the end, appears to all have been for naught. Through this work, I attempted to capture the spirit of this frustrated prophet, speaking truth to the hardened hearts of the leaders and high priests, trying desperately to help them see what they have done to their people and warning them of the final judgment of God. Although the fight against injustice is difficult and unceasing – as the Old Testament reminds us – ultimately, I believe that Hope exists and keeps us alive, even if that light seems dim and far away. We can look to God as both our protector and judge, knowing that in spite of all that plagues us on earth, we are all in His hands in the very end. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Laura Pittenger is a NYC-based playwright and director. Recent publications of her work include PRIDE AND PREJUDICE ABRIDGED (YouthPlays) and THE GOSPEL OF HUXLEY (Smith & Kraus, 5-Minute Play Anthology). Her plays have been produced at the internationally-acclaimed FringeNYC (The HVAC Plays); The Sheen Center Theater Festival (The Drill); The Gallery Players (Thou Shalt Not), GI60’s International One-Minute Theatre Festival, and Ball State University (Daughters of Trinity: Women of the Manhattan Project. Laura’s plays have received workshops with 3V Theater, One Bird Productions, Alaska’s Last Frontier Theatre Conference, KCACTF, and The Playwrights’ Center. Laura has directed through Athena Theater, Turn to Flesh Productions, The Tank (NYC premiere of Jason Hall’s thriller Third Floor) and Project Y (Parity Plays). Laura currently serves on the advisory board of Turn to Flesh Productions, after a three-year run as the company’s literary manager, selecting plays with “modern themes, classical styles.” Laura hails from Fort Wayne, Indiana and graduated from Ball State University with a B.A. in theatre production for directing, summa cum laude. Website Laura Pittenger About the Artist Laura Pittenger Other Works By Read: "The Flesh From Their Bones" Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

The Lawless Man The Ageless One Rglenn Thessalonians Final Small Loading Video . . . This digitally illustrated poster by artist Ryan Glenn weaves together a bundle of important details to portray the singular voice offered in 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10 The Lawless Man, the Ageless One By Ryan Glenn Credits: Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2018 Digital Illustration Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This passage of Scripture takes us to a dark day in human history, accompanied by the best news there is. Evil trembles within us all and roams the earth, too, with a fast-approaching deadline. The machinations of the darkness and his dominion are not only real but even now overtaking the kingdoms of earth. Yet, like the rock-hewn feet of Shelley's " Ozymandias " languishing in the desert of the past, so this real reign of evil, imagined here in stone edifice, shatters at the touch of the voice of the I AM. The steps of his altar are emblazoned with the eternal cry of the evil one, famously encapsulated by Anton Lavey , and his gesture a mockery of true peace. The moon sigil perches on his head like a crown of darkness, and his demeanor is political in affect, with all the trappings of human-made leadership. Above his head, though, the infernal number is overshadowed by the Christus Victor. We are reminded of the searing light of Truth, the glorious and terrifying hope in the One who spoke the heavens and who spoke peace to those far and near by His blood. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Ryan Glenn is a writer and artist living in Dallas, Texas. He enjoys digital illustration as a medium of choice for his personal work, and is always learning more about himself and the world in the process. He desires to follow and serve Christ with his talents. He resides in a 110-year-old house with his wife Jess and black lab Bruce. Barefootmonstur.com FerventStudio.com Website Ryan Glenn About the Artist Ryan Glenn Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Haggai 2 Loading Video . . . Visual artist John Bergmeier uses the physical layers in this mixed media art piece to explore the layers of history, personal connection, and exploration of his faith associated with Haggai 2. Haggai 2 Haggai 2 By John Bergmeier Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2018 15 x 24 x 2 inches Collaged Screen Prints, Linocut on Wood Veneer, Gold and Silver Vinyl Film, Appropriated Wood, Metal Pieces + Sinew Mixed Media Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Intent upon connecting the visual arts to God's Word, I am inspired by various verses and Biblical stories. I think it's perfectly acceptable and God-pleasing to produce artwork that is simply inspired by faith: but also that to teach, preach and share the gospel is the highest good. My work typically includes imagery from nostalgic sources vindicating my personal memories and wistful emotions. Multi-layered, not only with antique line art and purposeful texts but also with the colors themselves. This type of layering and use of multiple images lends itself to the idea of a confusing and complicated life this side of eternity, but still looking forward to "feel the Son's embrace." I have a standard palette of colors that I rely on for most of my mixed media art pieces and prints. These also are intended to imply this vintage feel; as if the colors are pulled directly from my Aunt Erna's living room in Beatrice, Nebraska. A personal favorite is a red-brown that is a mix of the red of Harry Lottman's discarded Velvet tobacco can and the burgundy of the rusting farm implement behind his barn. Lastly, in addition to these solid colors, I frequently use metallic inks, especially gold, to imply a religious and heavenly connection to the overall narrative. This second book of Haggai (one of the twelve minor prophets of the Old Testament) contains 38 verses and was written around 520 BC. From the beginning of my work on this visual art piece I have tried to portray an "Old Testament" aesthetic and sensibility. The materials and imagery that I have selected are meant to represent the various verses that are key components to God's Word here written by Haggai. I struggle to understand how it must have been to be an Old Testament believer, still looking forward to the coming Savior as opposed to our lives now looking back at what has taken place with Christ's plan of salvation for us. In the second chapter of Haggai his prophecies include Christ as the descendant of Zerubbabel from the family of David: He shall soon come, "a comfort of all nations." This lineage is represented by the length of sinew that runs along the top of the piece. One can take these 3 essentials from Haggai 2: be strong, work diligently and do not fear. We are still encouraged to maintain a strength which is required to overcome life with a sinful flesh and a fear that can cripple and hamstring this effort without the power and courage from God. The "yawning" people of Israel at this time had become distracted and had lost focus on the continued rebuilding of the second new temple that God had commanded them to build. The musical notes and bright colors used here characterize this almost festive attitude which resulted in an unfinished temple. The people were also using their gold and silver for other purposes rather than for God's work. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection John Bergmeier is an American artist who received his BA in Studio Arts from Hastings College, Hastings, Nebraska and his MFA in Printmaking and Drawing from Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas. Bergmeier has been employed as a Commercial Designer and Design Manager in the decorative films industry since 1992, and has continued to create artwork throughout this time in his home studio. He has exhibited internationally and has also taught studio art and graphic design classes at various colleges. He is currently working on prints and mixed media pieces in the studio space shared with his wife Carla in Waxhaw, North Carolina. Website John Bergmeier About the Artist John Bergmeier Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Filmmaker Chris Knight created this fascinating film in response to the story of Achan and Joshua 7. Joshua 7 Carried from Jericho By Chris Knight Credits: Curated by: Michael Markham 2015 Short Film Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link The story of Achan is a story of guilt and failure. It’s not, however, the story of Achan. He’s a void at the center of the story of his own destruction. A problem for Joshua to overcome so the Israelites can continue conquering the promised land. Achan bears the guilt so Joshua and the nation of Israel suffer the failure. But Achan’s guilt, more than Joshua’s failure, has always been the more relatable of the two emotions. Failure visits us all; it nags and lingers and weighs us down; but it never crushes as abjectly as it does for Joshua, because we are never so certain as he is of his divinely ordained victory. Achan knows the leaders of Israel are searching for the devoted things. Joshua announces it publicly. He participates in the consecration. Still, he holds on to the proof of his crime. And he does nothing as they choose his tribe, his clan, his family. Guilt is universal. Nothing turns hearts to water like watching a lie unravel, seeing the things we hide rising into view, feeling the reckoning slowly arrive. Step by step, one revelation at a time, until we stand alone facing the thing we’ve done. In this film, I wanted to focus on Achan, the man forgotten in his own story, to feel the noose slowly tightening around his neck. And I wanted to remember that I am just like him, something forbidden hidden in my tent, hoping that somehow, some way, it will stay uncovered just one more day. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Chris Knight is a director and writer based in New York City. His short films and feature scripts have been selected for a variety of film festivals across the country. Website Chris Knight About the Artist Artist in Residence 2016: Chris Knight Part 1 Artist in Residence 2016: Chris Knight Part 2 Artist in Residence 2016: Chris Knight Part 3 Artist in Residence 2016: Chris Knight Chris Knight Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . This song by Spark & Echo band is in response to the theme of "Light and Darkness" from Psalm 139. The first version of this song attempted to include all the beautiful imagery from the psalm, but it didn't seem to work. After playing with the music, Jonathon and I settled into a feel that reflected the theme of "running from"‚Äìmusic that evoked a journey. Psalms 139 Where Can I Go? By The Spark & Echo Band Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2013 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This is the first song Jonathon and I have written together by collaborating throughout the process–tossing music and lyrics back and forth from start to finish–so the song took many forms before it arrived at what you hear it today. I was drawn to this psalm because it dealt with images of darkness and light, and because it is the story of someone who is running from God. In the psalm the writer speaks of trying to hide in darkness, but that it is impossible because “even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.” The first version of this song attempted to include all the beautiful imagery from the psalm, but it didn’t seem to work. After playing with the music, Jonathon and I settled into a feel that reflected the theme of “running from”–music that evoked a journey. From there I threw out most of the original lyric, and explored the themes from the feel of the music. Things began to fall into place. This psalm is not just about a journey away from, but also a journey to discover. In the end the psalmist wishes to be caught. -Emily Clare Zempel Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection The Spark & Echo Band is a family outfit of songwriting-storytellers led by husband and wife duo Jonathon Roberts and Emily Clare Zempel. Their music brings forgotten poetry and wild stories from the Bible to life: visions of sparkling wheels in the sky, hunger and thirst, and legends of love as strong as death weave with memorable melodies and captivating rhythms. Drawing from a classical background, influenced by the pianism of Rufus Wainwright and Ben Folds, and emulating Paul Simon’s narratival techniques, Spark & Echo sings epic tales of love and adventure. The duo has collaborated on three full lengths albums (Spark&Echo, Inheritance, Cities Project), one video album (In the Clocktower), in addition to many theatrical collaborations, this very nonprofit, and two children. They live in beautiful Beacon, New York, with all of the above. Website The Spark & Echo Band About the Artist White Robe What a Day Deep Calls to Deep Yo Sé Do You Love Me? How to Be Free Flesh Lifeblood Artist in Residence 2015: Spark & Echo Band Take to Heart The Wheels Frogs Ruined Inheritance The Spark & Echo Band Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . This rich song by Peter Mawanga draws jointly from the beautiful cultural heritage of Malawi and from Habakkuk 1:2-5. Habakkuk 1:2-5 NDAUPENYA By Peter Mawanga Credits: Written, Composed, Performed by Peter Mawanga Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2018 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link The music is drawn from the Manganje beat which is commonly danced by the Lomwes from the Southern region of Malawi. The words in the song are drawn from Habakkuk 1:2-5. Habakkuk was complaining to God about the problems he was going through and the Lord answered him by promising Habakkuk that he was going to do something in his days‚ things that he would not believe. The title of this song, NDAUPENYA, meaning "I have seen your greatness," is inspired by Habakkuk 3:1-4. This is a prayer from Habakkuk the prophet in shigionoth . NDAUPENYA is a Chichewa word drawn from a verb PENYA which means "Look or Watch." Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Peter Mawanga has attracted worldwide acclaim with his music, the Nyanja vibes, performing on world stages in Africa, Europe and America. Not a stranger to the BBC and other media outlets, Mawanga has established himself as one of the living legends in Malawi and Africa. Blending traditional instruments as the Nyanja’s visekese, malimba , and kaligo , with contemporary instruments, he produces music that is fondly described by many as therapeutic, drawing from the Nyanja’s core values of peace and calm. The Nyanja are the most peaceful people in Africa and their country Malawi, which has never been at war, be it civil or otherwise, is known as the warm heart of Africa. Their instruments are deliberately designed to produce sounds that appeal to different feelings that aim at calming the nerves, celebrating life, pleading for peace and mostly merrymaking. It is from this source that Peter birthed the aMaravi movement and the celebrated Nyanja afro-vibes which mainly took off when he produced the now world renown album, Mawu A Malawi (The Voice of Malawi) , which featured stories of AIDS. For seven months Peter and colleagues had collected narratives from twenty-six of the most inspiring people they had ever met. They shared their loss, pain, joy, courage, and wisdom. The result of the project was Mawu a Malawi . The album was launched at the University of North Carolina and Department of State, making Peter Mawanga the first African musician to perform at the office of the Secretary of State. Since then, Peter’s performances have been holistic, characterized by song, film, dance, talks and sometimes dramatic monologues. His talks, among other things topics, are on: Malawian traditional sounds ; origins, use, relevance, relation to Africa and the world at large, the fusion with contemporary instruments, extinction, and preservation efforts. Music and dance in Malawi , the interplay of music in the social setup. Issues of identity, music as a people’s movement and a catalyst for life. Dance and tribal heritage. Talents of the Malawian Child Project Mawanga’s personal life (self-discovery) and involvement in projects for social change and economic empowerment. Peter, just like the Nyanjas of Malawi, believes that music goes beyond the ear, reaching out into the inner person to produce a healing power. It is one of the keys to a peaceful mind. Website Peter Mawanga About the Artist ULEMU Nambala Wani ASAMALA Peter Mawanga Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Nicora Gangi Kiss The Son Loading Video . . . Bringing a modern twist to the medieval depictions of The Last Judgment and religious triptychs, Nicora Gangi responds to Psalm 2:12 through collage. Psalms 2:12 Kiss the Son By Nicora Gangi Credits: Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2017 21 x 33 inches Collage Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Bringing a modern twist to the medieval depictions of The Last Judgment and religious triptychs, I have responded to Psalm 2:12 through collage. "Kiss the Son," as it is used in this section of Holy Script is a command. Elsewhere in Scripture , Christ is called "the Son;" a statement supported with a declaration made earlier in this Second Psalm : "You are my Son" (v 7). Christ is the Son of God by eternal generation . He is the Son of Man and our mediator, ( John 5:27 ). Our duty to Jesus is expressed figuratively: to "Kiss the Son" with a sincere affection and love. We are called to enter into a covenant of friendship with Christ. We are to let Him be dear and precious to us: to love Him above all, to love Him in sincerity, to love Him much . We are to be as the woman to whom much was forgiven and, in token of this, adorned His feet with kisses ( Luke 7:36-50 ). We are not to anoint Him with a betraying kiss, as Judas kissed him , as all hypocrites do. We are to kiss Him with a believing heart. "Kiss Him." This action is one of agreement and reconciliation. If we do this we understand that the quarrel between God and us has terminated -- the act of hostility ceased. In this paper collage triptych the concept of worship and man's rebellion against or obedience to God is illustrated three times. The left panel illustrates the worship of all other gods but the God of Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ. The golden calf from Exodus 32 is archetype to all human-made idols. In my work, it is perched on top of the mountainous heap of humanity's various 'golden calves': technology, humans, animals, food, money, cities, power, land, etc. This panel is in contrast to the far right panel. In the far right panel, the pure white lamb and golden lion rest amongst the pinnacle of the swirling form of golden water. This water is the third Person in the Trinity: the Holy Spirit, the Water of Life. Pure, alive and active. The upper part of the central panel represents Heaven, featuring the powerful, brilliant light from the Trinity and a repartee on sun/son since the physical sun will no longer be needed in the New Jerusalem ( Rev 21:23-25 ). Included in this Trinitarian image is the firm statement that the Lord will rule the generations with power and authority ( Psalm 2:9 ). Below this brilliance is a display of Hell. The snake-like forms represent the Serpent of Old -- the one who deceived Adam and Eve whose resulting actions plummeted all of humanity into an alienation from God ( Genesis 3 ) that we see actualized in death and the decay of the body. At the very bottom of the center panel is the City of Destruction where those who give the Son the betrayer's kiss will dwell in perpetual fire and separation from God forever. Yet, for those who "Kiss the Son" with love, God is victorious over this inevitable and nightmarish end. So, let us be at peace with God in Christ who is our Peace. He is also our LORD and we are to worship Him ( Psalm 45:1 ). He is the Lamb, He sits on His throne, He Reigns forever ( Rev. 5:9-13, 19:6 ). Amen, amen, amen. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Nicora Gangi was educated at Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, USA (BFA 1974 and MFA 1976). She was a Professor of Art at Syracuse University for 29 years. Gangi has been awarded many Grand Prize and First Place awards and grants. She has been and continues to be published in numerous artist’s books on pastel paintings. She has lectured regionally and nationally as a visiting artist at universities and artist’s guilds. She is represented by: Edgewood Gallery (Syracuse, NY), and Gangi Studio (Winter Garden, FL ). Website Nicora Gangi About the Artist The Mountain of the House of The Lord I See Him but Not Now So Shall Your Descendants Be This One The Body without the Spirit | 1 The Body without the Spirit | 2 The Body without the Spirit | 3 The Sealed Ones Peace with God The Everlasting Protective Love of God Our Father When the Lord Gives Us The Land I See Him but Not Now The Mountain of the House of The Lord Paneled and Ruins Series The Harvest Spirit of God-The Spirit Hovering Memories Lies Fool Dance Your Truth from the Great Congregation Psalm 18 Sound of Their Wings Psalm 16 EAST, WEST, NORTH & SOUTH AT HIS TABLE Nicora Gangi Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work