August 17th served as a reminder in many ways at once that we are made in the image of the creator. We hosted a creative arts showcase which provided under one roof on one afternoon a place for 3 broad colorful areas of expression–writing, stage performance, and visual art. This was The Refuge’s 2nd annual Word in Art event filled with music, images, dance, drama, poetry, and people.
What place do the arts have in a community based around faith?
What is the connection?
I believe events like the artists showcase, arts workshops, and artistic expression during gathered times of worship and community life are integral to our development as God’s people. Art is a way of telling the human story, seeking revelation and inviting response and participation. As much as art is connection with our story, it is also a vehicle of transformation. It can bring greater understanding, clarity, openness, and even a call to action. Artistic mediums affect us in powerful ways that go beyond our intellects and touch our souls and spirits. I believe this is God’s way. This is how we are made to receive glimpses of truth on many levels as whole people.
In Exodus 35 God directed the craftsmen in every detail to make the tabernacle skillfully worked and strikingly beautiful. Even the vestments of the priest were exquisite. Despite the intense beauty that would reflect the very essence of God, there must have been other intended results such as instruction and invitation, reflection and transformation.
Each of us is touched in our own particular way. One person may strongly respond to music, one may be awed by depiction of the magnificence of nature, one may have epiphanies from illuminated writing, one may find visual imagery most powerful, and another is moved as they watch a dancer portray hope in the midst of suffering. Perhaps God comes closer and clearer to us in these languages of the soul. Art is a reminder of a greater realities. And we need reminders.
August 29th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Jenny, thanks for the reminder.
The chance to see the inner workings and worship of our brothers and sisters is a rare pearl, and one through which we are all made richer.
Word in Art has become one of my favorite days at The Refuge, and I’m very grateful for all the work you put into it…many thanks to you, and to all who shared their art. Steve
September 2nd, 2008 at 1:15 pm
thanks jenny for all you guys did to pull off this lovely evening. i agree, there’s something about the arts that get us in touch with God in a powerful, unexplainable way. beauty is such a reflection of God’s image. i loved the creativity & diversity & power of expression. love ya kathy