Search this site

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

Loading Video . . . Artist Evelyn C. Lewis created this meditative video in response to Joshua 4:1-7. Joshua 4:1-7 Memorial Stone By Evelyn Lewis Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2015 Film, Meditative Art Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link The mystical relationship between the earth and a spiritual kingdom are like that between every human and his or her resurrected nature. This symbolism is investigated through rituals enacted using devotional objects. My work aims to contextualize American Christianity in a critical way, encouraging consideration for our unique historical perspective on what is to be worshiped and how. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Evelyn C. Lewis is an artist and curator living in Brooklyn, New York. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Pratt Institute in 2008 and a Master of Fine Arts in 2014 from Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan. Website Evelyn Lewis About the Artist Evelyn Lewis Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Comedian Paul Schissler explores the unseen side of the comedian's life in response to Ecclesiastes 4:13-16. Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 A Comedian's Bedtime Story By Paul Schissler Credits: Written and Read by Paul Schissler Curated by: Michael Markham 2017 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link There’s a side to comedy that the audience doesn’t see. A side that’s not filled with laughter. So often people question what it’s like being a comedian -– how hard it is, what’s the motivation, what’s the goal? You work obsessively on something that results in mostly failures, setbacks and self-doubts. It’s incredibly lucky to “make it” in comedy, and often feels futile. Like chasing the wind. This bedtime story is an honest look at the roller coaster feelings inside a comedian -– hope, determination, joy, self-doubt, hopelessness. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Paul Schissler is a NYC comedian and co-founder of Comedywire.com . Paul’s been part of the NY Comedy Festival and seen on The Steve Harvey. Website Paul Schissler About the Artist Paul Schissler Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art A troubled young boy was looking for joy and so he laughed. When he laughed at mean comments and poked fun of himself-- he escaped the heartache, the teasing, the toils. View Full Written Work A Comedian's Bedtime Story By Paul Schissler A troubled young boy was looking for joy and so he laughed. When he laughed at mean comments and poked fun of himself-- he escaped the heartache, the teasing, the toils. He was in charge. The pain he had, created laughter. Laughter had conquered his pain. This young boy loved the thrill of making others laugh. It made them feel good and so for him too. A win-win. When there was conflict, he delivered a joke. Upon seeing tears, he would do a funny dance. Anger? He huffed and puffed and made funny faces. Humor was his sword. The more laughter he made, the more they wanted to be around him. Laughter was contagious for all. "Give us more laughter, do your faces and dance," he heard more and more. And that 's what he did. He grabbed a microphone and stood in front of a light, that way eve more could experience him and delight. They told their friends and their friends told theirs. Soon a great big audience was laughing, all just for him. The troubled young boy had become a man of great jokes‚ repeated and loved by people, filling their hearts. Bigger stages, brighter lights, illuminated his laughs; it attracted more people and inspired others to take part. One unhappy girl, in the crowd that was laughing, found joy in these jokes. She saw visions of grandeur and wanted a stage of her own-- bright lights and a microphone. Then all of the happiness, praise and laughs, would be all her own to have when she wants. She wrote her own jokes, and it made others happy. "Tell us some more," people cheered after her shows. Her laughter was new, her jokes were exciting, and people were tired of watching the old troubled man night after night. "We like the new laughs and the way she makes us feel. She will be our new laugh giver who gives us a thrill." The man of great jokes stepped off of his stage; he believed in his laughter no more and was filled only with rage. Though older now, the troubled young boy was still inside. He had never escaped, he was always just along for the ride. "What was the point if only to be forgotten? Chasing the laughter but now it 's all gone." The troubled old man took his place in the crowd. He smiled outside but had no joy in his heart. The people around him were laughing as one. Down by his side a boy grabbed his arm. "Mister, one day all these laughs will be mine, I 'll have a stage, lights and a microphone to make me shine." Close Loading Video . . . A troubled young boy was looking for joy and so he laughed. When he laughed at mean comments and poked fun of himself-- he escaped the heartache, the teasing, the toils. Download Full Written Work

sing_nick_stokes_photo.jpg Loading Video . . . Sing is a short play written by playwright Nick Stokes in response to Psalm 22, verses 14-18. This work was premiered by Spark and Echo Arts on July 15, 2011, in New York City as part of evening sponsored by the Center for Faith and Work entitled “Artist and Beauty: Illuminating the Word.” Psalms 22:1-18 Sing By Nick Stokes Credits: Playwright by Nick Stokes Actors: Michael Markham, Emily Clare Zempel Director: Ryan Whinnem Movement by Deborah Wolfson Composer: Jonathon Roberts Musicians: Jonathon Roberts, piano/voice; Chris Nolte, bass; Anthony Taddeo, drums Artist Location: Tacoma, Washington Curated by: Emily 2011 Short play Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This passage tapped into my surreal vein, or what I call surreal, which is more what people mean by surreal than what the art world classifies as Surreal. So, surreal. My first impressions of the passage were paranoia, claustrophobia, persecution, despair, exhibition, voyeurism, display. On display, surrounded, people staring, casting lots…this performing or feeling like you’re performing…this personal stage fright and existential stage fright…this being crucified led to the quasi-metatheatrical twist. Who has forsaken she? Is She forsaken? Is He? Where’s the power? What do we demand of that power? What are the audience’s expectations? Who are we performing for, and what for? What does She need to sing? Why sing? The play plays with notions of freedom, perpetuity, entrapment, progress, and (old school) how to live right – how to sing? And…is the world what you encounter or create or fake? Put on a happy face. Sing. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Nick Stokes is a playwright and author living outside Seattle who sometimes packs mules in the wilderness of Montana. Website Nick Stokes About the Artist Rebuild Nick Stokes Other Works By Read the Script Download the Score Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Deeper Into Infinite Love April Bang Deeper Into Infinite Love, Detail 1 Deeper Into Infinite Love, Detail 2 Loading Video . . . The incredible amount of detail in this stunning piece by artist April Bang flows from her meditation on the infinite love spoken of in Ephesians 3:14-21. Ephesians 3:14-21 Deeper into Infinite Love By April Bang Credits: Work Documented by Michael Markham Curated by: Michael Markham 2018 36 x 42 inches Acrylic on Canvas Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Ephesians 3:14-21 is a passage of scripture that is close to my heart and one that I frequently go to and meditate on. As I painted this piece, I was drawn to read and reflect on the passage with various English translations of the Bible to gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and see what new insights would emerge with the same verses expressed in different ways. As I explored the passage in this way, I realized that it is a prayer as well as an encounter with mystery. According to the different translations of the Bible, Ephesians 3:14-21 is: “A prayer for the Ephesians” (NIV); “Prayer for the Readers” (NRSV); “Prayer for Spiritual Strength” (ESV); “Paul’s Prayer for Spiritual Growth” (NLT); and “Appreciation of the Mystery” (NKJV). This prayer expressed in The Message exhorts us to the glorious inner strength of having Christ in our hearts and experiencing the extravagant dimensions of Christ’s love, of God who can do far more than what we could expect, imagine, or ask by His power at work within us, His spirit working within deeply and gently. Here in these verses, as expressed in different ways, a particular kind of love—a love that extends beyond knowledge, a love that exceeds our expectations and even imagination, a love that regenerates and transforms—seems to be the focus. And as we kneel down to pray, perhaps it is this kind of love that remains the mystery for us to appreciate as well as come to know, in ever-increasing breadth and length and height and depth. Though we may never come to understand it completely, we will nevertheless be able to “know” this love that surpasses the limits of our knowledge and cognition and takes us into the depths of an experiential and relational reality that allows us to be rooted and grounded in love and filled with all the fullness of God, not just alone in intimate, personal devotion and contemplation, but in community with “all the saints” that transcends the walls of our own church and extends across geography, culture, sociodemographic affiliation, doctrine, denomination, and any other factor that may differentiate us from others. I listened to the song “On and On” by Housefires on repeat as I painted and meditated on the passage. This song seems to express the prayer and mystery conveyed in the verses so beautifully: “Deeper than any ocean… Higher than any mountain / Your love goes on / And on and on and on.” The music and lyrics guided my colors and brush strokes, layer by layer, day by day, while I reflected on love that goes on and on… love that is infinite… love that draws us to God’s presence and keeps us there. How wide, how long, how high, how deep is this love that surpasses knowledge, fills with fullness, and strengthens with power? What does it mean to have such a love abiding and working in our hearts? I am starting to think more deeply about love, faith, and fullness these days. The passage states that Christ may dwell in our hearts through faith and immediately talks about love that surpasses knowledge and fills us with the fullness of God. As I have been reflecting on this passage, I am learning and discovering that this love, however close to us, comes, not of ourselves, but of God; of the Spirit of God “entering into our soul” with love as Jonathan Edwards says in his sermon entitled “ Love, the Sum of all Virtue ”. And it is the Spirit of God that strengthens our inner being, transforms our hearts, and gives power to love with the love of Christ; a love that has no limits; a love where there is fullness of joy and freedom; a love that we can know even as it is infinite! My life and professional experiences to date have primarily centered on the theme of personal transformation and systemic change. I paint, draw, write, and create from a place of spiritual contemplation, exploration, and experiential discovery in pursuit of growth, wholeness, restoration, and transformation, which seems to never end. Transformation within us can foster transformation around us in our relationships, our communities, and our societies, which in turn, transform us again. The cycle seems to be continuous. The words of Ephesians 3:14-21 have been, and continue to be, transformative for me. God’s power is at work within us. God’s love is infinite as it is also accessible to us. And God can do abundantly more than what we ask or think. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection April H. Bang is an artist, leadership educator, researcher, and practitioner specializing in adaptive leadership, transformative learning and adult development, systemic change, and collaborative capacity building. She is an advanced doctoral student in the Adult Learning and Leadership program of the Organization and Leadership Department at Teachers College, Columbia University. Prior to her doctoral studies, she taught leadership to undergraduate students at Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea and conducted workshops for students and professionals in Asia. In addition, she has diverse and extensive experience as a practitioner working across the fields of human rights, criminal justice reform, international rule of law development, and economic policy, including work at the Vera Institute of Justice, International Justice Mission, Harvard Kennedy School’s Executive Session on Human Rights Commissions and Criminal Justice, and the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. As a developing artist, April has an on-going curiosity to examine and demonstrate how art could foster individual and collective transformation. She has started to exhibit her visual artwork in galleries and has co-curated a community art installation in Harlem. She is passionate about art, leadership education, community growth and social impact, and her experiential and scholarly research on the restorative and transformative power of the arts in conflict resolution led to an article in the Journal of Transformative Education. Most recently, she completed the Gotham Fellowship, a leadership development program of Redeemer's Center for Faith and Work (CFW), which has inspired her to explore the integration of art, leadership, and theology. She holds an MPP from Harvard Kennedy School, an Ed.M. in Adult Learning and Leadership from Columbia University, and a BA in economics from Smith College. Website April Bang About the Artist April Bang 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