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Se Farrar 1 Peter A Loading Video . . . Set and lighting designer S. Benjamin Farrar explored 1 Peter and the theme of "stranger" in this beautifully crafted design. 1 Peter The First Epistle of Peter in 1/2" Scale By S. Benjamin Farrar Credits: Location: Pennsylvania Curated by: Michael Markham 2014 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link These photographs of models, figures, and dioramas are based on The First Epistle of Peter. My focus is on the intended audience of this text – Christians, Jews, and Gentiles in Asia Minor who were in the midst of some kind of persecution and have been forced to stray into unknown or foreign lands and have been struggling with forces that might lead them spiritually astray. They are all strangers in this exotic land. The dreamscape dioramas in which these photos are set represent this foreign land of exile and there are several passages scattered throughout 1 Peter that have inspired specific compositions. In some photographs I have superimposed the relevant text from a “self-pronouncing” copy of the Kings James Bible as an atmospheric element. In other photographs I have allowed the composition to speak for itself in regards to its relevance to the text. The graphic qualities of the keys to pronunciation add a sense of foreignness in my mind – a sense that assistance is needed to translate exotic place-names into the language of those who travel into and through these lands. The author of the text (whose identity is in dispute) places great emphasis on maintaining the power structures and hierarchies of the exiles’ former way of life in their current strange surroudings. Whether it is the authority of God, Rome, or the husband, the author assures the audience that strict adherence to these structures will be rewarded, even if the reward is not seen in this life. My compositions attempt to show the strains and pressures that work to dismantle the frail scaffolds of culture and authority as the exile stretches farther from home and memories and priorities are lost or transformed by need, time, and distance. My choice of media is based on both my background in scenic design (in which models are a common form of communication for stage design) and an essay by the writer Michael Chabon in The New York Review of Books that has had a great effect on my work. In Chabon’s review of Wes Anderson’s film Moonrise Kingdom , he goes well beyond the normal limitations of the film review genre and creates a philosophical framework for art that I find deeply truthful. Below is an excerpt: “The world is so big, so complicated, so replete with marvels and surprises that it takes years for most people to begin to notice that it is, also, irretrievably broken. We call this period of research “childhood.” There follows a program of renewed inquiry, often involuntary, into the nature and effects of mortality, entropy, heartbreak, violence, failure, cowardice, duplicity, cruelty, and grief; the researcher learns their histories, and their bitter lessons, by heart. Along the way, he or she discovers that the world has been broken for as long as anyone can remember, and struggles to reconcile this fact with the ache of cosmic nostalgia that arises, from time to time, in the researcher’s heart: an intimation of vanished glory, of lost wholeness, a memory of the world unbroken. We call the moment at which this ache first arises “adolescence.” The feeling haunts people all their lives. Everyone, sooner or later, gets a thorough schooling in brokenness. The question becomes: What to do with the pieces? Some people hunker down atop the local pile of ruins and make do, Bedouin tending their goats in the shade of shattered giants. Others set about breaking what remains of the world into bits ever smaller and more jagged, kicking through the rubble like kids running through piles of leaves. And some people, passing among the scattered pieces of that great overturned jigsaw puzzle, start to pick up a piece here, a piece there, with a vague yet irresistible notion that perhaps something might be done about putting the thing back together again. Two difficulties with this latter scheme at once present themselves. First of all, we have only ever glimpsed, as if through half-closed lids, the picture on the lid of the jigsaw puzzle box. Second, no matter how diligent we have been about picking up pieces along the way, we will never have anywhere near enough of them to finish the job. The most we can hope to accomplish with our handful of salvaged bits—the bittersweet harvest of observation and experience—is to build a little world of our own. A scale model of that mysterious original, unbroken, half-remembered. Of course the worlds we build out of our store of fragments can be only approximations, partial and inaccurate. As representations of the vanished whole that haunts us, they must be accounted failures. And yet in that very failure, in their gaps and inaccuracies, they may yet be faithful maps, accurate scale models, of this beautiful and broken world. We call these scale models “works of art.” -Michael Chabon, “The Film Worlds of Wes Anderson,” New York Review of Books. March 7, 2013. http://www.nybooks.com/articles/archives/2013/mar/07/film-worlds-wes-anderson/ The “brokenness of the world” parallels the historical and philosophical perspective of The Bible as a whole and speaks specifically to 1 Peter. But this view does not directly support the advice of 1 Peter, rather it initiates (or continues) a dialoged with the author about how to best deal with the rending and deterioration of the scaffolding of culture and authority. Perhaps creation – art – is another way to salvage what is broken or breaking. Certainly, scale models have been used previously in Jewish heritage – what was the Ark of the Covenant if not new a jewel-box scale-model of the unbroken world – so that those in exile could carry with them a piece of that world through the truth of the law? Did the exiles addressed in 1 Peter need a similar scale model to keep a hold on the fragments that bound them to their former lives? In this way, the media I utilize to create my compositions is perhaps Chabon’s answer to the crisis of fragmentation and loss that the author of 1 Peter is attempting to ameliorate. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection S. Benjamin Farrar is a designer for live performance and an explorer and photographer of smaller worlds. Benjamin is the resident designer for Soledad Barrio and Noche Flamenca (a professional dance company based in Madrid, Spain); an assistant professor and resident designer for The Department of Theatre and Dance at Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania; and a freelance designer of scenery, lighting, and projection for live performance. He has worked as a designer and assistant designer in many venues in New York City, including The Public Theater, The Joyce Theatre, The Lortel Theatre, The Cherry Lane theatre, and The New Victory Theatre. He has designed throughout North America in venues such as The Majestic Theatre in Boston, White Bird in Portland, The McCarter in Princeton, The Royal Conservatory in Toronto, Wolf Trap in Virginia, and The Zellerbach Playhouse in Berkeley. He has also designed for venues in Australia, Mexico, Argentina, Peru, Brazil, England, Scotland, and Switzerland. Benjamin has worked as a guest designer at NYU Gallatin School in New York and Grinnell College in Iowa. He is a graduate of The University of Iowa and Vanderbilt University. He would like to thank his partners in crime, Jody Marie and Theodora Soledad. Website S. Benjamin Farrar About the Artist S. Benjamin Farrar Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Nicora Gangi Psalm 16 Loading Video . . . We are pleased to feature this image of Psalm 16, a dynamic collage by renowned visual artist Nicora Gangi. Psalms 16 Psalm 16 By Nicora Gangi Credits: Artist Location: New York City Curated by: Janna Aliese (Dyk) 2011 Paper Collage Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This psalm has Jesus Christ in it. It begins with such expressions of devotion as may be applied to Christ yet concludes with a confidence of a resurrection. One, which is to prevent corruption that only, applies to Christ. David speaks of the prospect, which the Redeemer had of His resurrection and the glory that should follow. Both Peter and Paul quoted this psalm in Acts 2: 24, 13: 36 . This psalm is one that we may surely use to encourage one another and edify ourselves and then learn: that it is our wisdom and duty to set the Lord Jesus always before us, and to see Him continually at our right hand wherever we are, to gaze upon Him as our chief good and highest end, our owner, ruler and judge, our gracious benefactor, our sure guide. We have little to hope for from this life but we shall rest in hope of a better life. We can put off the body in that hope. Christ's resurrection is a sure promise of ours if we are His. Our pleasures here are transient and momentary, but those at God's right hand are pleasures for evermore, pleasures in the immediate vision and fulfillment of an eternal God. Here is the "color notation" used to develop Psalm 16 . 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 Kiss the Son 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 . . . The dance work "Stranger Name" was created by Elizabeth Dishman and presented during Spark+Echo Arts Live 2014 in NYC. The piece is a response to the theme of “strangers” and the passages of Matthew 16:17-19, John 1:42, and John 21:15-19. Matthew 16:17-19 John 1:42 John 21:15-19 Stranger Name By Elizabeth Dishman Credits: Choreographer: Elizabeth Dishman Dancers: Kristen Bell, Elizabeth Dishman Musicians: Sarah Gregory, voice; Evan Gregory, piano Location: Brooklyn, NY Curated by: 2014 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link Contemplating the theme of Strangers, I started thinking about how we can be strangers to ourselves. I've always been intrigued by instances in the Bible when God re-names someone, so for this work I focused on Jesus giving Peter a new name, and predicting both glorious and horrible things for Peter's life. "Stranger Name" ponders what it could be like to receive a new name, to wrestle with a new identity, one that only God understands and aids us in developing. Initially this was a solo work, the dancer engaging with the props on her own initiative. But something felt missing; I wanted to be more explicit about the relational struggle inherent in taking on, accepting, or being asked to accept a new identity. I was hesitant to introduce a God or Jesus figure, but decided to see what it would be like to have another person there, at first just witnessing, then assisting, then strongly shaping the action. The outcome, for me, reflects a very true scenario in which God is present in many different ways, some more welcome than others. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Elizabeth Dishman is the Artistic Director of Dishman + Co. Choreography, a Brooklyn-based experimental dance company founded in 2001. Originally from Colorado, she studied Voice Performance at Emory University, and Choreography at The Ohio State University. In pursuit of ineffable junctures between the abstract and theatrical, the universal and deeply personal, Elizabeth and her collaborators devote themselves to scrupulous exploration and ardent play, probing the elusiveness of live performance in search of lasting things. Over 15 years and 40+ original works, Dishman + Co.’s choreography has been described by critics as “complex skeins and cerebral dreams”, “bodies in rigorous concentration”, and “playful and provocative…raw humanity seeps in”. www.DishmanAndCo.org Website Elizabeth Dishman About the Artist Tide dance in the dances Terra Firma Visitation Elizabeth Dishman 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 is my second entry for Spark and Echo Arts. I will outline how things are going for my proposal project, When We Walk. Find the complete progression of the work linked below. Romans 12:2 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 2 By Jason DaSilva Credits: Curated by: Spark & Echo Arts, Artist in Residence 2015 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This is my second entry for Spark and Echo Arts. I will outline how things are going for my proposal project, When We Walk . It has been a fulfilling several months since my last entry where I explained the project, When We Walk . One of the more defining points that I decided upon is to feature other countries from around the world in the video piece. Within this entry are a couple video clips that I edited for inclusion in the final piece. The first one is of myself driving through the streets of Tbilisi in Georgia. I was grateful to be able to travel with the American Film Showcase to show When I Walk in Georgia. I quickly found out that sidewalks and stoplights are things that are not guaranteed – I presumed that these would be available because of living in North America, in New York City. When We Walk Video Journal #1 - Georgia The second video is of my travels in Turkey where I showed my previous film, When I Walk , and promoted AXS Map (http://www.axsmap.com/). In all my world travels thus far, I’ve been graced to have so many people helping me as I navigate and try to spread the word about the importance of accessibility. There have been several challenges along the way, and that will continue to be the case. The first one is pretty obvious. These cities are not all set out to be disability-friendly. When We Walk Video Journal #2 - Turkey I recently attended the UN Enabled (http://www.un.org/disabilities/) conference where I was able to present AXS Map along with the World Disability Union. The whole conference was an eye-opener for me because I got to see how the world’s disabled community got together to share their voices and work together to raise awareness of their similar issues for our community. I was able interview several people from the disability community on the specifics that they are concerned with. There were several topics that came to the forefront: education, accessibility, and intersection with other minority communities (for example: gender and race, law, and even ageism). While moving forward with the film, it is easy to follow the different threads. One of the biggest challenges will be to remain focused. During this time, I’ve been writing lots of grant proposals and will continue to do the same along with being consistent with writing for Spark+Echo Arts and the When We Walk blog ( https://www.tumblr.com/search/whenwewalk ; http://www.sparc.bc.ca/ ). Writing grants and proposals are the biggest ways to stay focused. I am thankful to Spark+Echo Arts for keeping me grounded and I look forward to continuing the project and presenting it to the world. Another big focus of the piece will be to document MAPATHONS, where we will spread around the world how to use AXS map to find wheelchair accessibility data quickly and efficiently with lots of people in any vicinity. As my vision and hands get worse, I am most thankful for everyone rallying together to support me and AXS Map. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Jason DaSilva has been a prolific filmmaker for the past 10 years. He has directed four short films (OLIVIA’S PUZZLE, A SONG FOR DANIEL, TWINS OF MANKALA, and FIRST STEPS) and two feature-length documentary films (LEST WE FORGET and WHEN I WALK). Many of his films have won awards; OLIVIA’S PUZZLE premiered at the 2003 Sundance Festival and qualified for an Academy Award. Three of his films have had national broadcasts on PBS, HBO, and CBC. He also produced Shocking and Awful, a film installation on the anti-Iraq war movement, exhibited at the 2006 Whitney Biennial. Each one of these works advanced Jason’s objective to give voice to those on the periphery of society. In 2006 Jason took a short break from filmmaking to earn his MFA in Applied Media Arts from Emily Carr University. He recently produced and directed an Op-Doc (opinion documentary) for the New York Times called ‘The Long Wait,’ published in January 2013. DaSilva’s latest film, WHEN I WALK, was an Official Selection of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and won Best Canadian Feature at HotDocs 2013. Following the film’s theatrical release this fall, it will air on POV on PBS in 2014. He currently lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. Interested in learning more about Jason’s creative process? Visit his website at: http://wheniwalk.com/ Website Jason DaSilva About the Artist Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 3 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 1 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Jason DaSilva Other Works By To follow the development of his project as a 2015 Artist in Residence, read his first and third posts. Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . Spark+Echo Arts founder Jonathon Roberts creates a musical groove to illuminate Philemon 1:17-21. Philemon 1:17-21 Consider Me a Partner By Jonathon Roberts Credits: Composition, Music and Editing by Jonathon Roberts. 2015 Vox: Emily Clare Zempel, Walter Kermit Zempel Roberts Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2015 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link While developing this work, I was mostly struck by the first phrase, "if you consider me a partner." I've been writing music and editing sound for years, first alone and then with my wife, Emily. Now we have a new partner in our life, our one-year-old Walter. Emily and I now run voiceover recording sessions at home while trading off who holds Walter and who is performing. It's a long road, but I'm learning how to be a better creative partner, both with Walter and with Emily. As I edited this piece, I tried to create a musical groove and soundscape that naturally weaves in the outbursts and exclamations that occurred when we recorded Emily performing the text. A drum hit here, a synth line there, a word or phrase got replaced with their interjections. If I "consider them partners" in my life, I need to welcome them, as Paul insists, in every way. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection J onathon Roberts is a composer and sound designer for games, film, theatre, and ensembles. His style grew out of classical and jazz training, and evolved through quality life adventures: touring the country in an RV with a one person theater piece on the Apostle Paul, living in Brooklyn with an improv music ensemble, performing in a downtown NYC absurdist comedy band, and a long stint writing music for the renowned slot machine company, High 5 Games. He has released four albums including the latest, Cities a song cycle personifying biblical cities. He created the popular podcast/web series ComposerDad Vs. Bible , in which ComposerDad accepts intense compositional challenges from a mysterious Bible while out with his kids. He frequently collaborates on music and theater projects with his wife, actor Emily Clare Zempel. They live in Beacon, NY, with their two boys and a tangled box of electrical cords. www.jonathonroberts.com Website Jonathon Roberts About the Artist Loving Arms I Make Tents The Sower Response There Is Room These are My Sons Weakness The Day Is Almost Here Surrogate Babbler Remember Me Prayer How Beautiful I Am a Fool The Constant Ecclesiastes Cows Blessing Fools for Christ More Than Rubies Only a Few Years Will Pass Dear Friend Jonathon Roberts Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . The compositions in Kris Allen's jazz suite reflect on the hope and strength that carry us through difficult situations in reflection of Proverbs 28. Proverbs 28 Proverbs 28 Suite By Kris Allen Credits: Composed by Kris Allen. 2016 Alto and soprano saxophone by Kris Allen Tenor saxophone by Frank Kozyra Piano by Jen Allen Bass by Matt Dwonszyk Drums by Jonathan Barber Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2016 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link My quintet, featuring myself on alto and soprano saxophone, Frank Kozyra on tenor saxophone, Jen Allen on Piano, Matt Dwonszyk on bass and Jonathan Barber on drums first debuted these pieces on June 26th, 2016 during the Jazz Vespers service at St. Peter’s Church in New York City. I very much enjoyed and welcomed the challenge of adding a little thread to the larger work that Spark and Echo has instigated. It was especially interesting to spend a lot of repetitive and meditative time in Proverbs, a book of the Bible that is not exactly famed for drama, romance or emotional poignancy; I’d wager that comparatively few musicians have found their inspiration here over the millennia compared to the Gospels, the Psalms, or many other scriptures. I chose to compose in response to the 28th Chapter of Proverbs. I was originally drawn to this chapter because of it’s repetitive themes of leadership; describing the signatures and effects of both wicked and righteous leaders. Of course with the American presidential primary season in full swing, ideas about leadership (especially fearful ones!) tended to dominate our cultures collective consciousness during the time of this composition, and I was certainly not immune! In addition to many admonitions to just and equitable personal and business practices, Proverbs 28 contains many vivid images of the misplaced potency of a wicked or evil person given power over others – “like a roaring lion or a charging bear” (v. 15). However, there is wisdom in this chapter that goes far beyond the specific issue of political leadership, and calls us all to take all of our fearful and apprehensive thoughts and fears captive to a trustworthy God. The three movements of the suite respond to and creatively play with the major ideas that resonated with me personally in these passages. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Saxophonist, composer and recording artist Kris Allen was born and raised in the Hartford Connecticut area. Kris began musical studies at an early age, but his desire to seriously pursue a life in jazz music was catalyzed through his apprenticeship with legendary alto saxophonist Jackie Mclean, first at Hartford’s Artists Collective and later at the Hartt School of Music in Mclean’s African American Music Degree Program. He has gone on to perform at major jazz venues throughout New York, the US and worldwide, and forged a clear conceptual and aural identity as a composer, arranger, and educator to match his powerful saxophonic voice. His latest release, Beloved is his second album for the Truth Revolution Recording Collective, following his critically acclaimed debut recording as a bandleader Circle House (2012). Kris has enjoyed a long career as a sought-after sideman, working in the groups of Illinois Jacquet, Gerald Wilson, Andy Gonzales, Jimmy Greene, Helen Sung, Winard Harper, Andy Laverne, the Mingus Dynasty, Avery Sharpe, Andy Jaffe, Earl Macdonald, Noah Baerman, Jen Allen, Ike Sturm, Gary Smulyan, Jazzmeia Horn, Rogerio Boccato, Kendrick Oliver’s New Life Orchestra, the Curtis Brothers and Mario Pavone among others. As a composer, Kris has been honored with numerous awards and commissions and has collaborated with dancers, poets, and visual artists, as well as musicians from across diverse genres. A dedicated educator, Kris is the Lyell B. Clay Artist Artist-In-Residence in Jazz at Williams College, having previously held positions at the Hartt School, Trinity College, Southern Connecticut State University and the Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts. He has been a Teaching Artist for Litchfield Performing Arts since 2001, and conducted clinics and master classes at institutions nation and worldwide. Kris is a Vandoren Artist and plays Vandoren mouthpieces, reeds and ligatures exclusively. For more information please visit www.krisallenjazz.com Website Kris Allen About the Artist Kris Allen Other Works By MOVEMENT 1 : "LET’S NOT HIDE JUST YET" Proverbs 28:28 I chose to begin the suite with a contrafact (new melody over a pre-existing chord progression) of Herbie Hancock’s composition “I Have A Dream.” In performance my group typically plays Hancock’s piece and “Let’s” together in one amalgamation of theme and variations. I wanted to reference Martin Luther King Jr. to invoke commonly held notions of leadership at it’s best, as well as his specific vision for society, which seems lately to be suffering a new wave of attacks. My title “Let’s Not Hide Just Yet” is a call to myself and others to remain connected, involved, and in dialogue, and to resist the urge to flee (Canada seems to be the most popular destination referenced) or withdraw in light of ominous national and world developments. I wanted the music to aurally embody a sense of determined strength amid turmoil. MOVEMENT 2 : "TREMBLE ALWAYS" (FOR NANCY BUTLER) Proverbs 28:14 Closer to home for me, the Spring of 2016 has been colored with concern (that surpasses that of the election cycle) by the illness of my pastor, Nancy Butler. Nancy has ALS and is losing control of her body at a quick rate. Even in illness and faced with a hastened end in sight, she continues to model Christ-likeness to me and so many. Nancy trembles before God in a way that helps others to delight in doing the same. Nancy continues to blog at End Time Stories: Stuff God Did Near the End of Pastor Nancy's Life . The piece emotionally attempts to represent the spiritual discipline of solitary prayer that is such a huge part of who Nancy is and a source of so much fruit in her life. Part of this piece references an original hymn of mine, a setting of the verse “Be still and know that I am God" ( Psalm 46:10 ). MOVEMENT 3 : "LACK NOTHING" Proverbs 28:27 I don’t believe we ought to read a prosperity prescription in: “Those who give to the poor will lack nothing” (v. 27)! Rather, I think that the folks described by this verse are making two choices: first to give, and then to assume a grateful posture and worldview in which they trust God to provide for their needs. Second, to strive to re-interpret present situations in ways that coax out evidence of blessing, joy, and non-paradigmatic abundance. The piece swells gradually into an exclamatory texture, using 12-tone melodic and harmonic techniques to represent feelings of completion and infinity. 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Loading Video . . . "Lifeblood" is a harmony-infused telling of the story of God's post-flood covenant to Noah from the point of view of a bird, performed by the Spark+Echo Band. Genesis 9:1-17 Lifeblood By The Spark & Echo Band Credits: Written by Jonathon Roberts Musicians: Jonathon Roberts, piano/vocals; Emily Clare Zempel guitar/vocals; Jay Foote, bass; Alexander Foote, percussion Mixing by Alexander Foote Mastering by Matt Shane of Masterdisk, NYC Artist Location: New York City Curated by: Jonathon Roberts 2011 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This piece is a reaction to Genesis 9:1-17 where God makes a covenant with Noah after the flood, promising that never again will the waters of a flood destroy every living thing. What we didn't initially notice about this text, and what inspired this song, was this covenant was also with every living thing (verse 9-10) including the birds, etc. We started to think about what that meant for a bird to have this covenant with God. We also wondered what the bird felt like to see the rainbow in the sky for the first time (apparently they see colors well). We also were inspired to think about the importance of lifeblood, that it is special and handling it should not be taken lightly. The image featured with this song is a watercolor created in 1916 by Spark+Echo Arts leader Charis Carmichael Braun's grandfather. After hearing this song, Charis was reminded of her family's heirloom artwork. She thought that it embodies much of what the song describes. The redness, perhaps symbolic, of the birds' feathers, their dedicated communion with each other, the blooming rose, the distant town with a steeple, what Charis has always imagined to be a "houseboat" half-sketched in the middle ground, her grandfather's unexpected creativity, "has always been a special reassurance to her of the close relationship she has with her family." 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? Where Can I Go? How to Be Free Flesh Artist in Residence 2015: Spark & Echo Band Take to Heart The Wheels Frogs Ruined Inheritance The Spark & Echo Band Other Works By Lifeblood You fill the earth, as fear and dread fill my heart. And every heart of every bird in the sky, And every creature that creeps, and every fish in the sea. Though I’m just a bird we share this covenant, This everlasing covenant, I am a bird I see the colors in the sky just like you. Just like you, never again will the waters destory me, Never again, never again will the waters destroy us. You hold me in your hand. You hold me in your hand, though I am just a bird. You eat my flesh, though I am just a bird. Though I’m just a bird we share this covenant, This everlasing covenant, I am a bird I see the colors in the sky just like you. Just like you, I am accountable for your lifeblood. We are accountable, for you are in the image of God. Though I’m just a bird we share this covenant, This everlasting covenant. I am a bird, I see the colors in the sky just like you. Just like you, never again will the waters destory me. Never again, never again will the waters destroy us. And yet, I am in your hands, as a bird, I am. I’m in your hand, like the green once was. Though I’m just a bird we share this covenant, This everlasting covenant. I am a bird, I see the colors in the sky just like you. Just like you, never again will the waters destory me. Never again, never again will the waters destroy us. Recorded on Spark+Echo Band's album Inheritance Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Ebitenyefa Baralaye Abram B Big Abram_a-big.jpg Abram_b-big.jpg Loading Video . . . Spark and Echo Arts is pleased to feature the work Abram, a sculpture by artist Ebitenyefa Baralaye. This captivating piece is Mr. Baralaye's reflection on the life of Abram, especially what is told in Genesis 12:2-3 and Acts 7:3. Genesis 12:2-3 Acts 7:3 Abram By Ebitenyefa Baralaye Credits: Artist Location: New York City Curated by: 2011 8.5 x 10 x 21 inches Nickel-plated polished bronze Sculpture Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link This piece was modeled from water clay, fired and then cast in bronze. Its textured surface and gestural form reflects the clay's original malleability under aggressive tactile and tooled handling. It was composed from two main sections that were complimentarily stacked and worked together. In the Old Testament, Abram is ordained by God as the lineage father of all of God's body of chosen people, Israel. He is blessed, sent on a journey to a Promised Land and later receives the name Abraham, "father of many nations." This form loosely reflects: at its top, Abram's faithfully singular focus of mind, further down, the dispersion of his lineage to descendants of many nations, and from mid-section to base, the challenges endured and overcome through his life's steadfast journey. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Ebitenyefa Baralaye is a ceramicist, sculptor and designer. He was born in Lagos, Nigeria, raised in Antigua and lives in the United States. Ebitenyefa received his BFA in Ceramics from the Rhode Island School of Design. His studio bases have included Long Island City, Queens; the Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts in New York City; and Bloomfield Hills, MI where he is currently enrolled as a Ceramics MFA candidate at the Cranbrook Academy of Art. He has exhibited in various solo and group shows domestically and internationally including the 2011 Gyeonggi International Ceramix Biennale in Icheon, South Korea and the 2016 Toronto Design Festival. He has held residencies at the Peters Valley Crafts Center in Layton, NJ and most recently, Talking Dolls in Detroit, MI. Website Ebitenyefa Baralaye About the Artist Artist in Residence 2016, Ebitenyefa Baralaye – Part 3 Artist in Residence 2016, Ebitenyefa Baralaye – Part 2 Artist in Residence 2016, Ebitenyefa Baralaye – Part 1 David Artist in Residence 2016: Ebitenyefa Baralaye – "Bam Bam" Ebitenyefa Baralaye Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

benje_daneman_featured.jpg Loading Video . . . Greetings from New York, Spark & Echo! I’m honored to be submitting my third update for my artist in residence with Spark & Echo Arts. Just a recap: I’m writing a full jazz suite based upon the concept of LIGHT in scripture called “Light in the Darkness.” It’s been an amazing and enlightening process so far and these next few months will be no less exciting! Find the complete progression of the work linked below. John 1:1-5 John 1:14 John 3:19-21 John 12:34-36 1 Thessalonians 5:5-11 Artist in Residence 2015 | Benje Daneman 3 By Benje Daneman Credits: Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2015 Live Music, Jazz Suite Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link August 31, 2015 Greetings from New York, Spark & Echo! I’m honored to be submitting my third update for my artist in residence with Spark & Echo Arts. Just a recap: I’m writing a full jazz suite based upon the concept of LIGHT in scripture called “Light in the Darkness.” It’s been an amazing and enlightening process so far and these next few months will be no less exciting! Here are a few things I wanted to update you on: 1. SearchParty, the band I’ve formed to coincide with the writing of this project, debuted the first time at Saint Peter’s Church in midtown Manhattan on August 9th. If you check out my video, you’ll see some clips from that performance. We played three of the pieces from my forthcoming suite “Light in the Darkness.” It was a great first performance and am excited for more to come! 2. I’ve been lucky to perform and rehearse sections of the music I’m writing many times now as I’m constructing the full suite of music. This is definitely a luxury in helping me figure out what works and what doesn’t. It has been to the point where even one whole composition I’ve realized, while it’s a good composition, it doesn’t quite “fit” into the whole piece. Additionally, I’ve realized that parts of the music I thought was just a section of one piece, should actually be a whole composition itself. This only can happen through the ability of performing it multiple times in multiple settings - I’m very lucky to have this time to work out “the kinks.” 3. In multiple parts of the suite, I’ve found that I’ve used a similar chord progression in different ways without really even realizing it. I’ve begun to label this progression as the “Light” progression and am starting to utilize it in different ways to sprinkle throughout the composition. It’s awesome that this came as a sort of “accident”… or better yet, naturally!! 4. On November 15th at Marble Collegiate Church, 5pm, we’ll be debuting the full composition “Light in the Darkness” at the Jazz Vesper Series at Marble Collegiate Church (274 Fifth Ave New York, NY ). I hope you can join us as we premiere this exciting work that I’ve been honored to write. Thanks to you all for your love and support through this process!! I can’t wait to share it with you all on November 15th. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection About Benje Daneman A sought after musician for his personal approach, creative musicality and strong versatility, Daneman got his start professionally in 2007 on a national tour with with Doc Severinsen’s Big Band. Since then he has performed with the world renowned Jose Limon Dance Ensemble, recorded for the Grammy nominated album “Elevation” (HMI Big Band) and has appeared as both a leader and sideman at prestigious venues across the country including The Kennedy Center, Baryshnikov Arts Center, FONT (Festival of New Trumpet) Music Festival and The Iridium. As a composer/arranger, he has received commissions from the United States Air Force Band (in Europe), Dr. Steve Zegree, Spark and Echo Arts and Lutheran Music Missions. His 2015 Artist in Residence for Spark and Echo Arts, is the catalyst for one of his newest projects called Search Party which approaches faith topics through original music, with a band including some of the top musicians on the jazz scene today, including Ike Sturm, Jon Cowherd, Jaimeo Brown and Ashley Daneman. Another new project of Daneman’s, Life Stories, calls upon his deep interest and history in musical storytelling by musically creating a personal and unique experience for the audience by aurally recreating true stories of people places and events. Daneman’s 2013 EP release Estelle’s Farewell Gift features all original compositions featuring Jeremy Siskind, Ashley Daneman and Andrew Rathbun and has been described as “Simple songs that open doors to complex reactions” (David Sumner, Bird Is The Worm). A Teaching Artist for the New York Pops, Daneman is a passionate educator and has led clinics and workshops throughout the country at such institutions as McNally Smith College, Western Michigan University, Concordia University and for the Michigan State Band and Orchestra Association. He is also the co-director of the Jazz & Creative Institute (http://www.jcinstitute.org), which has a mission to inspire artistic development and cultivate creative entrepreneurship for all levels of creative musicians. Benje has attended and holds degrees from Western Michigan University, The Henry Mancini Institute (Los Angeles, CA), and Manhattan School of Music (New York, NY). Benje lives in New York City with his wife, jazz singer-songwriter, Ashley Daneman and daughters, Rivi and Elise. Website Benje Daneman About the Artist Artist in Residence 2015 | Benje Daneman 1 Artist in Residence 2015 | Benje Daneman 2 To Lay Down One's Life Artist in Residence 2015: Benje Daneman Benje Daneman Other Works By Follow the development of Benje's project by reading this in addition to his first , second and final posts as a 2015 Artist in Residence. Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . The bassoon plays a strong supporting role in this setting of Jeremiah 12:5-17 by The Spark & Echo Band. In the text, God speaks strongly of his sadness and frustration. Jeremiah 12:5-17 Inheritance By The Spark & Echo Band Credits: Composition by Jonathon Roberts Musicians: Jonathon Roberts, piano/vocal; Emily Clare Zempel, bassoon/voice; Alexander Foote, percussion; Jay Foote, bass Mixing by Alexander Foote Mastering by Christopher Colbert Artist Location: Bronx, New York Curated by: Spark+Echo Arts 2010 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link "Has not my inheritance become to me like a lion in the forest? She roars at me, therefore I hate her." After the Prophet Jeremiah boldly files a complaint with God in the beginning of Jeremiah about the condition of Judah, God replies with stern words of discipline. God uses vivid illustration to illuminate his sadness and frustration with the people he loves. This response is set to music in the song, "Inheritance". The final line of song, "Bear the shame of your harvest, because of the Lord's angry mouth," touches on the thought from this passage that while the words from the Lord's "mouth" are angry, in his heart there is deep love for those he is pursuing. -Jonathon Roberts *This song is the track of The Spark+Echo Band's 2012 album . 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? Where Can I Go? How to Be Free Flesh Lifeblood Artist in Residence 2015: Spark & Echo Band Take to Heart The Wheels Frogs Ruined The Spark & Echo Band Other Works By Inheritence Has not my inheritance become to me like a lion in the woods? She roars at me I hate her. Has not my inheritance become to me like a speckled bird of prey, That other birds surround and attack? Go gather all the wild beasts, bring them to devour Many shepherds will ruin my fields They’ll turn my pleasant vineyards in to trash. If you race with men on foot and they have worn you out Then how can you compete with a horse? If you stumble in the safeland how are you gonna manage in the thicket When ev’ry thing is desolate and dry? Your brothers, your brothers, your own famly Even they’ve betrayed you. Do not trust them, they’re the ones I love For they will sow wheat but reap thorns. They will wear out but gain nothing, yeah well, Over the barren land The sword will devour, Because nobody cares So bear the shame of your harvest Because of the Lord’s angry mouth. Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

Loading Video . . . For this entry, I would like to update my status on When We Walk. I also want to show its relationship to the passage that I have chosen. Find the complete progression of the work linked below. Romans 12:2 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 3 By Jason DaSilva Credits: Curated by: Spark & Echo Arts, Artist in Residence 2015 Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link For this entry, I would like to update my status on When We Walk . I also want to show its relationship to the passage that I have chosen. Before going further, the name of my project is still entitled When We Walk . My past work entitled When I Walk was just EMMY award nominated this month. The award ceremony will be held at Lincoln Center on September 28, 2015. This is not the same Emmy’s award in LA. “ The News & Documentary Emmy® Awards recognize outstanding achievement in broadcast journalism and documentary filmmaking. The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences promotes journalistic excellence by awarding the coveted Emmy® to the very best news reports and documentary films aired on national television or streamed over the Internet each year.” I feel very grateful to PBS/POV for putting my film forwarded for the awards. I am very excited! It is important to acknowledge my physical challenges and how this relates to creating my work right now. I am finding it more challenging than ever to produce arts and films. I have new challenges because of my progressive multiple sclerosis. Now, the things that I took for granted like typing on the computer and seeing properly are a thing of the past. By having others assisting me with my editing and writing, I can still function, but it is a new way of being. I use dictation software to transcribe my words, but even this has its own set of challenges and it is not foolproof. Words are often wrong. I have to have some kind of blind faith that the projects I do get done. Losing my vision has been the most difficult singular thing. I was not expecting that. As a filmmaker, this is very sad. Wild, amazing things are happening with my career while the unthinkable is happening to my body. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2) I have to remind myself that what I am creating is for the greater good of people and humanity. I have to remind myself of this often. As thing gets tougher for my body, it is most important that I find courage to keep on. For this entry, I want to feature the finished trailer for When We Walk which outline the challenges the Romans passage resounds as I work on this trailer, reminding me that life is affirmed by the same challenges that we fight against. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Jason DaSilva has been a prolific filmmaker for the past 10 years. He has directed four short films (OLIVIA’S PUZZLE, A SONG FOR DANIEL, TWINS OF MANKALA, and FIRST STEPS) and two feature-length documentary films (LEST WE FORGET and WHEN I WALK). Many of his films have won awards; OLIVIA’S PUZZLE premiered at the 2003 Sundance Festival and qualified for an Academy Award. Three of his films have had national broadcasts on PBS, HBO, and CBC. He also produced Shocking and Awful, a film installation on the anti-Iraq war movement, exhibited at the 2006 Whitney Biennial. Each one of these works advanced Jason’s objective to give voice to those on the periphery of society. In 2006 Jason took a short break from filmmaking to earn his MFA in Applied Media Arts from Emily Carr University. He recently produced and directed an Op-Doc (opinion documentary) for the New York Times called ‘The Long Wait,’ published in January 2013. DaSilva’s latest film, WHEN I WALK, was an Official Selection of the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and won Best Canadian Feature at HotDocs 2013. Following the film’s theatrical release this fall, it will air on POV on PBS in 2014. He currently lives and works in Brooklyn, New York. Interested in learning more about Jason’s creative process? Visit his website at: http://wheniwalk.com/ Website Jason DaSilva About the Artist Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 2 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Part 1 Artist in Residence 2015: Jason DaSilva Jason DaSilva Other Works By To follow the development of his project as a 2015 Artist in Residence, read his first and second posts. Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work

The Lake Loading Video . . . We are immensely pleased to present The Lake, a new artwork created in response to Psalm 139, painted by Shawn Yu. This painting dives into a new theme – Water – for Summer 2012 with Spark and Echo Arts. With a tension set between representational certainty and graphic overlay, Shawn intends his fantastic scenarios to be “read as both a visual game and a narrative.” Shawn’s visual and metaphorical language incorporates “Metallic Vessels” in each of his paintings along with stylized imagery and perspective. A voracious reader of philosophy including Vladimir Nabokov, Baudrilliard, Roland Barthes, and Marshall McLuhan(media studies), Shawn notes that his favorite writer Nabokov’s novels “are usually a collage of different styles which probe into different points of view.” Shawn is inspired to paint using a “collage-like visual language that is a mix match of elements from different medias.” With each new painting his own vocabulary revolves, writing his own narrative with a story line woven through his current strokes of paint. Characters of steel teapots, knights, “skin gloves,” and faces posture in hidden, contained – or appear in a sliver of selectively revealed – compositions in oil. Shawn’s painterly response to Psalm 139 zooms into the individual experience, perhaps sublime and terrifyingly isolated in the vast sea of “the unknown,” while anchoring the comfort contained in those verses. Psalms 139:9-10 The Lake By Shawn Yu Credits: Artist Location: Richmond, Virginia Curated by: Charis 2012 18 x 24 inches Oil on canvas Primary Scripture Loading primary passage... Loading Passage Reference... Share This Art: Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy Link I placed a Metallic Vessel in my painting as both a visual motif and a symbol for containment; I really like the imagery of some one being lost and out of reach. I wanted my painting to have a feel of Dante-being-led-out-of-Purgatory. Spark Notes The Artist's Reflection Shawn Yu is an itinerant painter who spend his time traveling between Beijing, New York, Washington D.C. and various places on the United States east coast. He holds a MFA in painting from the New York Academy of Art. He has recently accepted a teaching position in Richmond, VA. Website Shawn Yu About the Artist Shawn Yu Other Works By Related Information View More Art Make More Art View Full Written Work Close Loading Video . . . Download Full Written Work