May 09, 2021

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Express

Artists produce work for a variety of reasons.  There are times they create to display skill, make money, fulfill others' visions, work through ideas for future pieces, etc.  Some of these reasons are "detached" from the heart, emotion, and passions of the artist. The work possess value/merit, and is very much a part of every artist's journey.  However, there is something powerful & compelling about work that comes from the depths of one's experiences.  When an artists creates from that raw and present place of where they are, amazing things can come to fruition. A person struggling with loss can imbue their work with the pain & confusion that comes with such emotion.  The work may take on a style, color palette, and compositional construct that is different from the "normal" for that artist. This may allow the viewer to connect with a work in a way that might not have happened if the artist wouldn't have allowed themselves to create out of that "place".  That is an amazing gift.  The artist can express/communicate emotions in a way that resonates with others like little else can. We are able to to meet the viewer where they are, and share our humanity.


Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.  Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult.  On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.  For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech.  They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it.
1 Peter 3:8-11

I'll admit that my art is rarely angry, depressing, or full of angst.  It isn't who I am.  I've always been a more positive personality that can find/see the good in almost anyone/any situation. For me to create "angry" art in order to reach new viewers would be unauthentic.  Even during times of struggle in my life there is always hope in my work. 

 We have a hope/peace that passes all understanding.  This is not to say that we can't wrestle with loss, anger, pain, confusion, or frustration. I know many who love the Lord with all their heart, and they battle with depression, anxiety, and other struggles.   I have not made it through life this far without my share of such things. However, I know that I'm wired differently, and these struggles do not over take me.  I've always found myself holding onto the peace that only God can provide.  So if I can speak hope, love, and encouragement to those around me...I will.   I don't want to fall into the trap of negativity that our world seems to be elevating/promoting...even when I am struggling with "life".  I want to be able to be a light in the darkness for the believer and nonbeliever.   I want to be able to speak life & truth to people that so desperately need it.  I want to express it with my all & all.  

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