Kristiekoll Whats Underneath 1 Loading Video . . . "What's Underneath" by New York City artist Kristie Koll is a response to the hope expressed in Romans 5:5. Romans 5:5 What's Underneath By Kristie Koll Credits: Artist Location: New York City Curated by: Jonathon + Emily 2011 30 x 48 inches Acrylic and tracing paper on canvas Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link 'Hope does not disappoint' from Romans 5:5 is where this painting began and is hidden in the early layers. This passage contains a promise that I continually need reminding of. As I worked on the painting, it moved away from the original direction and was gessoed over and started anew. Still some of the earlier work showed through. The layers with tracing paper and blue acrylic was highly intuitive and straight from my soul or center. "What I found most interesting is this piece had the most conscious scripture and focused prayer and was the work 90% of people engaged with in a recent open studio event. They stepped into it as if they could see the hope through the layers of tracing paper and gesso." -Kristie Koll Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection New York City artist Kristie Koll uses unlikely materials to create complex and captivating works of visual art. Website Kristie Koll About the Artist Kristie Koll Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

the-spirit-3-scott-neely-iii-main-image.jpg Loading Video . . . In his third installment, Scott Neely finishes his series in response to 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, exploring the unity and uniqueness of the Spirit's presence. 1 Corinthians 12:8-11 Three Meditations on the Spirit | 3 By Scott Neely Credits: Title: The Same Spirit Curated by: Marlanda Dekine 2017 series of seven drawings, 9 x 12 inches Mixed media on paper Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link The gift within each of us, the quiet flame we carry in the shape of our soul, each so different for one another, each the image of the Same. “The shape of the soul is a circle.” Joseph Campbell, interpreting Plato Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Scott Neely directs the Project for Community Transformation , an initiative to strengthen congregations to transform our communities. He works intensively with the social justice organization Speaking Down Barriers , which uses facilitated dialogue to build our life together across the differences that divide us. He is a graduate of Wofford College and Harvard Divinity School. Neely served at First Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg, SC from 2006-2015, first as Director of Missions and then as Pastoral Executive. In April 2015 he presented a TEDx talk on race and racism entitled “ What Will I Teach My Son? ” A practicing artist, his work fuses writing, painting, and digital media. He writes: “My method balances expression and simplicity. I make visual poems: succinct, present, for the heart.” His work may be found at www.neelyprojects.com . Website Scott Neely About the Artist Three Meditations on the Spirit | 2 Three Meditations on the Spirit | 1 Scott Neely Other Works By VIEW THE REST OF THE SERIES: Three Meditations on the Spirit | 1 Three Meditations on the Spirit | 2 Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Emily Ruth Hazel's poem responds to the theme of "Dancing" and Jeremiah 31:13 as she builds a poetry collection responding to every theme from the year as a 2013 Spark+Echo Artist in Residence. Explore the other works composed throughout the year in Emily's poetry collection, created as a 2013 Artist in Residence. Jeremiah 31:13 Homecoming By Emily Ruth Hazel Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2013 Poetry/Spoken Word Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link I love how dancing can be a shared expression, and I'm intrigued by how that tradition is kept from culture to culture and in different contexts. In reading Jeremiah 31:13 and reflecting on mourning traditions, I wanted to explore how music and dance can draw us out of grief and isolation, into joy and community. While it is a focal point at a funeral, the human body has often been considered irrelevant to—or even the enemy of—a person's spiritual life. As I see it, the physical and the spiritual are closely connected and the body also deserves to be honored, so I wanted to acknowledge in this poem some of the ways we experience both grief and joy through our bodies. In choosing the title, I was interested in the different meanings of the word "Homecoming." Within the African American church, it can refer to a funeral service (also called a Homegoing Celebration), based on the belief that earth is only a temporary residence and the deceased is going home to be with God; space is held for mourning a loss as well as for celebrating a life. Then there is the entirely separate tradition of schools welcoming alumni during Homecoming Weekend, the culmination of which is a dance. And of course, the reasons we go home to be with family are as varied as the emotions that accompany our returning. But to me, homecoming always carries a sense of reunion, as much as dancing in a communal way evokes an emergence of joy. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Emily Ruth Hazel is a poet, writer, and cross-pollinator who is passionate about diversifying the audience for poetry and giving voice to people who have been marginalized. Selected as the Honorary Poet for the 25th Annual Langston Hughes Community Poetry Reading in Providence, Rhode Island, she presented a commissioned tribute to the Poet Laureate of Harlem in February of 2020. She is a two-time recipient of national Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Prizes and was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship for a residency at The Hambidge Center in 2014. Her chapbook, Body & Soul (Finishing Line Press, 2005) , was a New Women’s Voices finalist. Emily’s work has appeared in numerous anthologies, magazines, literary journals, and digital projects, including Kinfolks: A Journal of Black Expression and Magnolia: A Journal of Women’s Socially Engaged Literature. Her poetry has also been featured on music albums, in a hair salon art installation, and in a science museum exhibition. Emily has written more than twenty commissioned works for organizations, arts productions, social justice projects, and private clients. Currently, she is developing several poetry book manuscripts and writing lyrics for an original musical inspired by the life of the extraordinary singer and Civil Rights icon Marian Anderson. A graduate of Oberlin College’s Creative Writing Program and a former New Yorker, she is now based in the Los Angeles area. EmilyRuthHazel.com Instagram: @EmilyRuthHazel Facebook.com/EmilyRuthHazel Website Emily Ruth Hazel About the Artist Artist in Residence 2013, Emily Ruth Hazel Word of Mouth In the Wake of the Storm Circling the Waist of Wisdom Give Me a Name Runaway Give Us This Day Undressing Prayer Emily Ruth Hazel Other Works By Poet Emily Ruth Hazel wrote a collection of six poems incorporating her experiences with every theme from the year in response to passages of scripture. Explore her works created throughout the year: “In the Wake of the Storm” LIGHT AND DARKNESS (JANUARY 21, 2013) “Circling the Waist of Wisdom” FOOLS (APRIL 26, 2013) “Homecoming” DANCING (JUNE 27, 2013) “Runaway” LIES (AUGUST 8, 2013) “Give Us This Day” HARVEST (NOVEMBER 14, 2013) “Undressing Prayer” MEMORY (JANUARY 6, 2013) Artists in Residence Spark+Echo Artists in Residence spend a year developing and creating a major work in response to Scripture. Click on their names to view their projects. Current Artists in Residence Spark+Echo Arts seeks to develop and support communities of artists who engage with and create in response to the Bible. Due to the impacts of COVID-19 and some internal changes, we decided to pause the Artist in Residency for a year so that we could regroup our resources. Our hope is to continue offering this opportunity in 2021. Previous Artists in Residence 2020 Sapient Soul, Marlanda Dekine (Poetry + Spoken Word) 2019 Lancelot Schaubert (Short Story) 2018 Elias Popa (Installation Art) 2017 Aaron Beaumont (Music), Lily Maase (Music) 2016 Ebitenyefa Baralaye (Visual Art), Chris Knight (Film), Lauren Ferebee (Theatre), Stephanie Miracle (Dance) 2015 Benje Daneman (Music), Jason DaSilva (Film), Melissa Beck (Visual Art), Don Nguyen (Theatre), Christine Suarez (Dance), The Spark & Echo Band (Music) 2013 Nicora Gangi (Visual Art), Emily Ruth Hazel (Poetry) Related Information View More Art Make More Art Because joy is often stuck in traffic and is known for getting lost; because she cuts loose from the funeral procession and winds up missing the burial View Full Written Work Homecoming by Emily Rose Hazel Because joy is often stuck in traffic and is known for getting lost; because she cuts loose from the funeral procession and winds up missing the burial, but arrives at the repast hours later, wearing a yellow sundress under her long, black coat, brings us a pineapple upside-down cake and turns up the sweet remembering; because we’re so relieved that she’s alive none of us chide her for showing up late; Because we hear a melody that calls us by our home names; Because we are wandering planets moving through a shared space, together in our separateness, and we need to be surrounded by all the ages we have been and those we have yet to be; Because we know nothing is certain beyond the blurred edge of this moment; Because on the back porch, though sometimes the boards leave splinters in our bare soles, the floor is open, wide enough to spread out, and fireflies are flashing Morse code messages we are itching to translate with our bodies; Because the body is more than a wheelbarrow to carry the spirit; Because salting our cheeks has become a part of our mourning routine, and it’s time to bow at the sink, let sorrow swirl in the drain, let our pain wash down with what we’ve lost or spit out; time to straighten our shoulders, try on a lopsided smile, and walk into a more spacious room; time to reach for the radio, pull from the waves whatever clarity we can between the shades of static and ash, and sway to the song that comes on next; Because life cannot be choreographed but we learn to improvise; Because even the ankle weight of grief can’t keep us pinned to our chairs when the music overtakes us— we set down our glasses, rise to our feet, and dance. Close Loading Video . . . Because joy is often stuck in traffic and is known for getting lost; because she cuts loose from the funeral procession and winds up missing the burial Download Full Written Work

francesfreyberg_labyrinth_smaller.jpg Loading Video . . . Photographer Frances Freyberg explores the metaphor of a path through the lens of a labyrinth in her thoughtful response to Proverbs 4:26. Proverbs 4:26 Labyrinth By Frances Freyberg Credits: Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2018 Photography Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link There have been times in my life when the number of paths stretching out before me was both exhilarating and overwhelming. There have been other times when I felt stuck on a path headed the wrong direction, whether because of choices I’d made, or circumstances beyond my control. And there have been times when I’ve walked a path – perhaps beautiful, sometimes painful, often ordinary – and felt the peace of God’s spirit alongside me. Walking a labyrinth – with only a single path leading to and from the center is – for me – a time of reflection, prayer, and renewal. It’s a reminder that no matter how winding my path may be, even when I feel like I’m headed the wrong way, God is always there at the center inviting me to walk with him. Just as God sees our entire journey with Him at once, this image explores the complete journey of a labyrinth walk, with its times of introspection, wonder, and joy. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection About Francis Freyburg: "Photographs have a unique ability to inspire reflection, hope and action. They hold the power to spark memories and encourage new adventures. They enable viewers to see familiar surroundings from a fresh perspective, or to explore uncharted territories for the very first time. Through my photography, I hope to educate people about our world, and to interest them in the natural beauty that surrounds us. I was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, where I grew to love the great outdoors. Childhood trips to exotic locations fostered an early appreciation for different places and cultures, as well as a continuing passion for travel. In 2008, I left my job in high-tech communications to travel the world for a year, taking photographs and writing about my experiences. During that time, I built an educational travel weblog ( www.wheresfrances.blogspot.com ) with weekly photos, as well as historical and cultural information about the countries I visited. I specialize in portraits of people, wildlife, nature and architecture from my travels to more than 60 countries. I’m particularly drawn to scenes that express the beauty, excitement, humor and diversity of our world, whether through a brilliantly colored blossom or a poignant face in the crowd." Website Frances Freyberg About the Artist For this child I prayed Tree of Life Frances Freyberg Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

jonathanroberts_figbranches.jpg Loading Video . . . We are excited to present "Fig Tree" by Cameron DeWhitt in response to Mark 11:12-14, with accompanying art work by Jon Roberts inspired by the song and John 15:5. Mark 11:12-14 Fig Tree By Cameron DeWhitt Credits: Music and Lyrics by Cameron DeWhitt Visual Art by Jon Roberts Artist Location: Portland, Oregon Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2011 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link From Cameron DeWhitt: “Fig Tree” is about being unable to reconcile things in the Bible with the character of God. Normally, I use Jesus as my primary reference to discern the nature of God, but Mark 11:12-14 is an example of a passage where Jesus said something I didn’t know what to do with, and still don’t. From Jon Roberts*: God does some offensive things sometimes. Take these delicious figs, for example. The only way they can be pollinated is by a wasp, who squeezes inside through the hole in the top – breaking off her wings in the process – lays eggs in some of the flowers (which are inside the fig), pollinates the rest of them, and then dies. Her body is consumed by the fig, and the fig is consumed by us, after the new generation of wasps has hatched and escaped the fig to continue the cycle. How interesting! How bizarre! Something that upon first sight strikes most of us as disgusting, creepy, and definitely a sign that that fruit is not fit for consumption, is actually the way God has chosen to provide for these two organisms, and in turn, to provide for us. It’s another witness to the fact that God works in us in ways we would not predict, and in ways which may strike us as painful or offensive at first. But if we remain in his love we can have faith that, unexpected as it may be, God will be faithful to bear good fruit in and through us. *Artist Jon Roberts is not related to Spark+Echo Arts co-founder Jonathon Roberts Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Cameron DeWhitt is an American clawhammer banjoist and songwriter born in Portland, Oregon. His live show is interactive, with sing-along sections, open discussions about song themes, and storytelling. He new self-titled record is available now on Bandcamp. Cameron’s songs explore themes of love, death, marriage, judgment and forgiveness. His lyrics display a quick, profound wit, enriched throughout with weighty metaphors and literary cross-references. Through personal and biblical stories, he prompts the listener to contemplate the definition of love, the character of God, and the human struggle towards hope and redemption. Cameron has developed a unique, melody-driven banjo style. While fluidly shifting modes and meters, he quotes popular melodies, improvises with other musicians, and makes musical jokes. His songs feature trumpet, string bass, drum set, complex vocal counterpoint and improvised solos. Cameron lives with his wife, Rebecca, in the East Kensington neighborhood of Philadelphia, where he is a part of the Circle of Hope Community. He plays an Ome Jubilee banjo with a Moon bridge and a John Balch goat skin head. Website Cameron DeWhitt About the Artist Leavener Cameron DeWhitt 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 Nicora Gangi explores the journey of Rahab in this collage by responding to Matthew 1:5 in the third work of her three-part series: When the Lord Gives Us the Land. Matthew 1:5 The Mountain of the House of The Lord By Nicora Gangi Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2023 Paper Collage Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Matthew 1:5 records Rahab taking her place in a promised lineage that became a prophecy of salvation. The promise was first made to Abraham in Genesis 15 : a land, a seed, and a blessing. In 2 Samuel 7 , King David was blessed with the promise of a son who would reign in His house forever: “ And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your throne shall be established forever ” (v. 16). While Rahab was initially rescued and brought into the camp, she later numbered amongst those of the nation of Israel and the carrier of king's lineage. She married Salmon—who was of the tribe of Judah—thereby joining the nation of Israel and eventually becoming the great-grandmother of King David. I imagine she saw The Day of the Lord, the Day of Messiah. Her faith in the Lord was firm. She declares in Joshua 2 : “ I know that the Lord has given you this land” and “for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below .” Similarly, in Luke 1:50 ,54-55 , Mary the mother of Jesus declared with joy before Elizabeth: “ And His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation….He has helped his servant Israel in remembrance of His mercy as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham, (Issac, Jacob), and to his offspring forever. ” I have used the mountain image in this piece to illustrate the inclusion of all the nations in this kingdom promised to King David in the 2 Samuel passage. Isaiah 2:2-3 expands on the description of this kingdom: “ It shall come to pass in the latter days that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established as the highest of the mountains …and all the nations shall flow to it. ” I have used the ‘stars’ again to indicate the multitude of people who are streaming to Mount Zion ( Isaiah 2:3 ) and I have included the God of the universe by placing the three orbs near the top of the mount. The circle is an old symbol for eternity and the moons in the background of the mount suggest His rule over ALL the heavens. 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 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 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 Kiss the Son EAST, WEST, NORTH & SOUTH AT HIS TABLE Nicora Gangi Other Works By To see the other panels from Nicora, click the links below: I See Him but Not Now So Shall Your Descendants Be To see the triptych, click the link below: When the Lord Gives Us The Land Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Filmmaker Landon Brands' short film Under the Sun exploring Ecclesiastes 1-2 and the theme of destruction. The piece hinges on the idea that all our toiling, all our work is essentially meaningless. Ecclesiastes 1:18 Ecclesiastes 2:1–13 Under the Sun By Landon Brands Credits: Curated by: Michael Markham 2014 Film Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This piece, a response to Ecclesiastes 1-2, was inspired partly by observing my own tendencies to work extremely hard for long periods of time–to excess, some would say. I remember reading this passage on a quiet fishing trip several years ago, and it immediately jumped out at me. Out there, away from cell phone coverage and reminders of work or school, it made sense. Nowhere else in scripture is it so blunt: “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the teacher. “Everything is meaningless.” That can be hard to hear when we’ve been told all our lives that work = achievements = position = happiness. (It was tough for me.) While our accomplishments may bear short term rewards, will anyone remember (or care) after our short time on earth is up? With this piece I aim to question the toil-fueled, achievement-oriented definition of success that is en vogue in Western societies today. I’m not suggesting that accomplishments and work ethic are without value, but we need to stop and think (and consider higher things lasting things) before we pour every drop of our lifeblood into the temporary pursuits of this world. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Landon Brands is a digital creator of film, video, and motion design. He has nearly completed his BA in Media Arts at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, MN, graduating this December. Landon works at the intersection of creativity and technology. A true digital native, he first experimented with graphic layout at the age of eight and completed his first video production at 13. He brings this curiosity and methodology to his work today, working in a variety of mediums (including live action, animation, and motion design) and often mixing them together. He has worked commercially for over 30 clients — a combination of directing, shooting, producing, and editing. He has also assisted in the production of several national and international commercials, music videos, and TV promotional campaigns. Landon's paramount goal is to tell stories that matter. Website Landon Brands About the Artist Landon Brands Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Photo1 Thealreadyandnotyet Luwalhati, The Already And Not Yet Luwalhati, The Already And Not Yet (Detail) Loading Video . . . Artist Luwalhati explores the concept of signs within our life and from God in this painting responding to Isaiah 7:10-16. Isaiah 7:10-16 The Already and Not yet By Luwalhati . Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2022 45 x 55 centimeters Ink on sculptured paper mounted on antique wood Mixed Media Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link About "The Already and Not Yet" Whenever we read these verses, we immediately refer to its fulfillment in Jesus that has happened hundreds of years after the “days of Ahaz”. It is the greatest event in history where God finally dwelt among men. As I reread and reflect on this story, I am simply brought to that very moment when Isaiah was speaking to Ahaz, a king who refuses to put his faith in God. I am brought to that time when the prophecy about Immanuel was not yet fulfilled. A time where unrighteousness seemingly prevailed yet an underserved gift was still proclaimed. Many artists are drawn to abstraction for many reasons, as for me I am drawn to it with a passionate desire to see things differently. To see the move of God in history. To see God’s poetry in creation… And this work is my poetry on paper. The movement and traces of the ink on sculptured paper may be labeled as an abstraction but it imitates a movement to a series of events that were already fulfilled and yet to be fulfilled. And all of these seem only like a reflection on the water! Isaiah invites King Ahaz, despite being ungodly, to ask from the Lord your God. Now that we live in this time in history many years after the coming of Jesus, my work humbly invites you to reflect and keep on asking from the Lord your God as you move through the chronos and the kairos. Immanuel is the sign already given to us thousands of years ago. We carry and announce this same sign until today, and along the way, God continues to communicate in different ways, signs, and wonders to us. Sign is from the Greek word “ôth”, which means - a distinguishing mark, banner, remembrance, miraculous sign, or warning. In my work, I use ink that moves freely in water instead of only being controlled by the brush. The moving ink gives unpredictable patterns and textures as it dries. I then sculpt the whole paper to enhance these patterns and textures, which expresses the desire for liberation. This desire is a humble request; an invitation to bring along others to freedom – to join the movement of God’s people. As we move we carry a distinguishing mark (sign - Immanuel) and a unique ink print in our little chapter in history. By the grace of Heaven’s hands, may we be very discerning to navigate in this temporary world. There is a divine drama where all creation eagerly waits for the revelation of the already and not yet. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Luwalhati's paintings interpret and capture the patterns, colors and play of light that nature brings, from the coral reefs of the 7,641 islands of the Philippines to the beautiful snow-covered French Alps, which leads her to see and tell stories of another world that she imagines and longs for. She wants to integrate her background and influence as an interior designer with her passion for fine arts. Her intuition, observations and studies led her to create her series of semi-abstract and abstract paintings with layers of colors and textures through her personal technique of ink on sculptured paper. This is one aspect of her repertoire but she also creates playful illustrations of fantasy and reality. Luwalhati recently came back to the Philippines after 8 years of living and working in Paris, France as a missionary artist. Life is now fuller and busier since the artist married the poet. And this particular poet has 3 darling children who lost their previous mom to cancer. So, they are now settled in the beautiful island of Bohol where you can also visit her humble studio that pairs as an airbnb. Website Luwalhati . About the Artist International Flower Bath Luwalhati . Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Questions Davelyn Hill Questions, Detail 1 Questions, Detail 2 Questions, Detail 3 Loading Video . . . Multi-talented Davelyn Hill offers up this visual and poetic response to Luke 18:18-30, inviting the audience to participate in self-reflection along with the rich young ruler. Luke 18:18-30 Questions By Davelyn Hill Credits: Creative Writing Genre: Poetry Painting photographed by ShAy Black Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2020 12 x 24 inches Mixed media Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link I love these verses on the Rich Young Ruler. I used a recycled piece that is years old to create this work. It is mixed media, using acrylic, yarn, paper, wood, and metal. I have a philosophy about not creating art to sit in a warehouse or extra storage. For me, it is to be enjoyed as a part of the culture of a home or business. This piece did not sell so it was in the rework pile. I painted it the first time and apparently was able to process whatever I needed to and move on. As I began to read the scripture in context, what struck me most was that he his hands were full . So, my figure's hands are full of balloons and treasures. He will not let go in order to grasp the hand of the other larger figure in the painting. Where your treasure is there your heart will be ( Matt 6:21 ) . There is so much that he can't see in the rainbow with the many colors and swirls, and textures — all he knows is that God is asking for what is in His hands. The Ruler's Question: 1. Why do I need to sell everything if wealth is an indicator of nearness to God? Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Davelyn Hill is the Program Director for Speaking Down Barriers . She has a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College where she is working on a second Masters in Creative Writing with an emphasis in poetry. Known as “Davelyn Athena” in some circles, she is also an author, poet, and intuitive painter. She has featured at “Say it with Slay’” in Spartanburg, SC. Her art has been displayed through Spark and Echo, the National Equity in Medicine Online Gallery, and Neue South SPACE Walk. Davelyn Athena is a two-time Haiku Champion at Say What Haiku slam through Wits End Poetry . She recently held an online auction of her art to raise funds and awareness for a campaign to provide healing and resources to Black women who have been previously incarcerated. Alongside providing counseling services, she has led support groups, presented research, and conducted university presentations around racial trauma and oppression. Most recently she has been coordinating with funeral personnel around issues with grief and is a part of a team of facilitators presenting public series on the grieving process. Davelyn is also a Level II Reiki Practitioner of the Usuimethod. She is a spiritual director, healer, life map retreat provider and spiritual midwife. Find Davelyn at: Instagram Facebook Website Davelyn Hill About the Artist Kept Davelyn Hill Other Works By Read the accompanying poem: Questions Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Honor Thy Father Christopher Williams Resized Smaller Loading Video . . . In this rich and personal work, painter Christopher Williams (also known as The Black DaVinci) reflects on Black Joy and his relationship with his own father in response to Exodus 20:20. Exodus 20:20 Honor Thy Father By Christopher Williams Credits: Curated by: Rebecca Testrake 2021 84 x 66 inches Oil on Canvas stretched over wood panel with Copper/Gold Leaf Mixed Media Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link My art practice focuses on Black Joy: a spiritual feeling that has uplifted the African Diaspora through countless trials and tribulations in the quest for freedom and equity. It defies a simplistic explanation. Black Joy is like a heartbeat. Never bitter, it is sweeter than the blackest of cherries or the richest of chocolates. It is a steady climb or an out of frame kiss. It is a moment that is magical, that expands what it means to be Black and does not limit Black people to being solely objects of judgement and discrimination. My joy, my Black Joy may not be the same as the next. For me, it is a vehicle for connection, educating others and sharing my experience as a Black man. I am able to develop authentic empathy for my subject matter, laying their soul bare in my art making. At once, the viewer connects not only with my subject matter, but also me. Black Joy in my art making is not straight forward. It is, at times, elusive and difficult to grasp. My paintings transport the viewer through different realms of emotions, expanding from realism to partial realism laced with abstraction, often conveying the notion of being out of time and place with an expressionistic element that can be viscerally felt. My figures tend to gaze back at the viewer, at times emboldened, at times cautious because my Black joy emerges directly from the historical context of struggle and oppression, yet always striving to be respected and fully seen. I have found this process is like walking to the edge of darkness and then calling upon faith to take one more step to embrace all of joy's manifestations. Of note specifically about this piece is that the Bible that is on the left-hand side was my father's huge king James version from 1984. My dad wrote and highlighted and taped Post-it notes all throughout many chapters—cross referencing other Bible verses. He also used to quiz me all the time about Scripture. Those were good memories. I was on a Bible quizzing team that placed 7th nationally. My dad was very proud because as I grew older, every Bible quiz and team I was on placed first or high enough to compete in national tournaments. I used to be able to quote a lot of chapters in the Bible by memory (my favorite Bible verse being Hebrews 4:12 ). So, the verse Exodus 20:20 means so much to me! Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Christopher Williams’ art practice focuses on Black Joy — a spiritual feeling that has uplifted the African Diaspora through countless trials and tribulations in the quest for freedom and equality. It defies a simplistic explanation. He explains its experience: Black Joy is like a heartbeat. Never bitter, it is sweeter than the blackest of cherries or the richest of chocolates. It’s like a steady climb or an out-of-frame kiss. It is a moment that is magical and void of being Black, judged and discriminated against. My joy, my Black Joy may not be the same as the next. It is my vehicle for connection, educating others and sharing my experience as a Black man. What makes the journey of my work unique is my ability to develop authentic empathy for my subject matter. I have found this process is like walking to the edge of darkness and then summoning the courage to take one more step to understand what lies beyond our differences. These steps are necessary to overcome bigotry, hatred and indifference, to embrace the pursuit of joy. Website Christopher Williams About the Artist The Modern Day Queen of Sheba & Queen Esther Christopher Williams Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Katrina Ross Samuel Josefine5 Loading Video . . . Artist and theologian Katrina Ross created this beautiful work and thoughtful prosaic reflection in response to 1 Samuel 2:19. 1 Samuel 2:19 Samuel and Time Travel By Katrina Ross Credits: Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2019 Pen + Photoshop Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link I think all spiritual practice is a cultivation of faith that the divine is good and present with us, even in the struggles we face. Throughout my life, I've found personal healing by making art, and think of it as part of my spiritual practice. For as long as I can remember, I've used drawing to process my emotions and challenges. Sitting at a desk in my room as a child was a safe place to be, and it continues to be a safe place today. I realized later in life that the drawings I've made are cryptic journal entries, which I've saved in notebooks all these years. When I go back to them, the drawings allow me to revisit those times in my life. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Katrina Ross is currently an M.Div student at Union Theological Seminary in New York City, and she has also worked as a freelance graphic designer and artist for many years. She draws things using ink, water-based paints and digital applications. Katrina’s inspiration is often derived from things she thinks she saw, or symbols that want to be reconfigured. She tries to avoid explicit narrative to leave room for a range of experiences, because your contribution as the viewer is central to the meaning. Website: katrinaross.net Blog: katrinaross.blogspot.com Website Katrina Ross About the Artist Oil Monster Katrina Ross Other Works By You can read her exploration of the passage and her work by clicking on this title: Samuel and Time Travel . Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

emmitt-israel-feat.jpg EmmittIsrael2.jpg Loading Video . . . Artist Emmitt Klein-Stropnicky responds to Joshua 1:1-6. Joshua 1:1-6 IsraelearsI By Emmitt Klein-Stropnicky Credits: Curated by: Evelyn C. Lewis 2015 3/8 x 20 x 25 inches Drawing- pen and ink on dentil. Frame- fabricated steel with satin wax finish Mixed Media Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link It takes much meditation and concentration to trace the intricacies of a map. What is most fascinating is what I see within them as they emerge on the page. Often I find an arrangement which renders the map in a fitting representation of itself. In this case it is almost animalistic and yet so beautiful and simple. By mirror imagining the map I have taken it to another level of beauty. Maps are so full of dialogue and history. I wanted to remove some of the loaded politics and religion that is behind Israel‚ strip it of its names and labels. The passage I chose represents so perfectly what is still going on in this land today. Often in my work I combine different mediums and art forms (I.e. drawing and sculpture), which is why I chose to suspend the drawing so one can walk around the piece and view it's transparency from both sides. I saw it fit to juxtapose the map in front of a Brooklyn cityscape. it plays on my personal Jewish background and having been to Israel versus my residence in Brooklyn. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Emmitt Klein-Stropnicky is a transgender artist who has resided in Brooklyn since he graduated from Pratt Institute in 2008 with a BFA in Sculpture. The spark for his love of maps all began when he traced his first map of his coastal hometown in Massachusetts. He currently works as lead fabricator at a high-end metal shop where he is continuing to pursue his passion for metalworking. Website Emmitt Klein-Stropnicky About the Artist Emmitt Klein-Stropnicky Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work