Reflections On Art Through Faith

Why do I feel the need to create art in my life?

I believe that all art (whether painting, music or writing), is something that is inspired by God, and something that we create with him as a way to deepen our connection. Every artist has an inspiration for each piece of work and I believe that derives from God. It may be indirect, for example it may come from a family member, an experience or a feeling, but inevitably I believe all of these have been guided by God.

Personally, art is a way to feel his presence, listen to him speak and delve deeper into his word. What does this look like in reality? It begins with a prayer, worship music playing in the background and referring back to the Bible, whilst frequently acknowledging that God is blessing me with the vision and I am merely giving it a form.

I believe that God speaks to all of us. Anything beautiful and true that we receive is sent from the divine, and it is our job to express it however we see fit, be that in a painting, song or story. This does not always have to adopt a typically Christian theme; I started off painting landscapes which I felt at the time were inspired by my travels, but why do we have certain settings resonate with us more than others? I believe it is because the whole world is God's creation, and he wants us to enjoy it and share the wonders of His creation, however it is specifically revealed to us.

The knowledge that each flash of inspiration is from God also helps me to remain faithful that that vision is worth pursuing. Through almost every creative process, there is a moment when I will look at a work in progress and feel that it is not coming together, but the faith I have in God helps me persevere through, believing that it will come together just as he intended. That is not to say that they will all be perfect; sometimes I do not yet have the skill to perfectly showcase the vision, but with each painting it becomes a little clearer.

Art is a way of performing God's work. I think back to the bible where it is written in Exodus 31:3-6: 'and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts - to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftmanship. Moreover I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you.'

As we see here, God fills His people with the skill to create these great pieces which all proved to be a vital part of His broader plan. Passages such as this drive my feeling that all work, when it is inspired by and dedicated to God, is important. The subject does not necessarily matter, only that it comes from a place of humility and acknowledgement that God is the true artist, and to remain thankful for the gifts he has given us.

So to conclude, I feel the need to create art to strengthen and deepen my own connection with God, but also to spread his message to others, and to be reminded of the gifts he has given me. God speaks to us all in unique ways, and it is our job to share his message, whilst remaining grateful and humble to him.