It begins again soon....

                           

                                

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: The Art of Endurance

As an art teacher, I often find myself reminding my students that "GOOD ART TAKES TIME".  For some reason, they want to race through their projects to be the first one complete.  In the rush to finish, their work truly suffers.  They are messy, incomplete, lacking detail, and not fully developed in concept & composition. I will first tell them to look at their work HONESTLY and see if it is truly their best.  If they can see it is not, I will have them go back and fix it up.  If they tell me it is their best work, then I will take them through the different parts of their picture that might need their attention.  Sometimes during their attempts to complete their work ( the second time), I will hear them complain about something being too hard or that they "can't" do it (reasons why they may have rushed the first time....frustration).  They need to move past the mental blocks of "TOO HARD" & "I CAN'T".  They aren't just words, but mind sets that trap young artists and keep them from finding joy & success in creating.  I can reteach the lesson/concept, work individually with them, and answer questions they might have, but what will benefit them the most is continuing to try their best and work through their frustration.  There is an endurance in art that some do not consider.  Being an artist is like a marathon runner.  Time, practice, and pushing through the frustrations will yield reward.  One day they will look back and wonder why they struggled with such a thing.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.  For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of thrown of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

Herbrews 12: 1-2

Our faith walk can be derailed by our mind set at times.  We allow the world to speak lies into our life that just aren't true.  These lies start taking root in our life, and we are unable to move forward. These lies are the things that so easily entangle.   Fixing our eyes on the Lord, pushing through the lies..focusing on THE TRUTH.  It takes some work.  It takes time of being uncomfortable. But if you continue in the truth...you WILL overcome! The next time lies come...situations rise up...war rages around you....you will do it all over again. This time though...your endurance in the faith is stronger. And the next...yes...there will be a next time...you will be stronger...IN HIM! The lies will no longer have the impact they once did..traps of this world will not get you. God will get the glory..and you will run the race with endurance....to the victory which He already has won!! 

Dear Jesus..let me run this race with the endurance that comes from knowing and walking with you!!  Let me not fall into the traps of this world. Let my eyes be set on You and believe the truth you have spoke and gave me in your Word!

In Your Name, Ted

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Know Your Strength

I know...it is Monday.  Life has been a bit crazy/busy in the E house.  Hope you had a wonderful Sunday, and may this get your Monday going in the right direction.  

When I first started teaching, I was afraid of weaving. I had never done it before! That was a problem because it was in every grade level's curriculum.  I had no idea how I was going to teach something I had never personally experienced(This was before Google & YouTube!!).  I humbled myself and asked some other art teachers to help me out.  The first couple years were really a struggle.  I did not take to weaving as quickly as I'd hoped.  However, I did not give up.  I also did not stop asking for help.  I knew I needed it.  If I was going to be the art teacher my students needed...I had to continue to humble myself & ask those better at weaving for help.  Weakness is not failure....it is opportunity. 

For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults hardships, persecutions, and calamities.  For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:10

Paul(the author of 2 Corinthians), had some amazing strengths!  He spoke with great power & authority, was not afraid of hard work, and brought God's truth to all (Jew & Gentile).  However, despite his obvious strengths....he never lost site of his weaknesses.  Those that only see THEIR strengths will not see a need for their greatest strength...JESUS. Paul knew that he could not do what he was doing in his own.  It was only by the power/strength of the Lord.  His weakness (and knowledge of it) allowed him to truly embrace his "STRENGTH".   Have you ever met those people that think they have it all together.  They don't see a need for a Savior because they aren't really THAT bad. If only they could be content in their weaknesses so they could realize the power & strength of Christ in their life.  Those weaknesses bring us before the Lord on our knees.  In Christ, our weaknesses can become strengths & our strengths can become the thing that God chooses to use for His glory.  

Oh, if you are wondering about my "relationship" with weaving now....my blog posts on weaving are some of my most commented on, pinned, and e-mailed about.  What was a weakness is now a strength, and I'm still learning more about weaving and different weaving projects every year!  

PRAYER

Dear Jesus, help me to acknowledge my weakness & give it to you.  My true strength comes from you & you alone.  I want to know my need for You...and live a life that is daily surrendered to You.

In Your Name

Amen

Sunday Devotional With Mr.E: The Hands of an Artist

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.

Colossians 3:23

If you spend much time with artists/art teachers, you will notice something about their hands.  They always seem to have evidence of their work.  I personally do not reserve it for my hands only(unfortunately).  My shirts, pants, shoes, face, hair, arms...all tell the story of my work.  A good artist or art teacher is so involved with what they are doing, that they often do not notice such things.  It is not a priority.  Their priority is doing what their heart aches to do...what they were created to do.  It is evident all over them!

God has called each of us into "ministry" if you have accepted the Lord as your Savior.  You know that, right?!?  Your ministry may not look like the pastor's, overseas missionary, or Sunday school teacher.  Maybe your ministry is being a mom, cashier, or an art teacher.  However, in all we do...it should be for the Lord.  And if we are working for the Lord...it should be with all of our heart, mind, and might.  People will begin noticing when you serve the Lord with all that you are.  Not because you are proclaiming your awesomeness & deeds, but because living a life for the Lord shows on you like an artist's hands.  Your words, work, attitude, and priorities all start looking like they have Jesus all over them!  

How about you?  Does your life have Jesus all over it?  If you feel like people may not be seeing Jesus in you...in all areas of your life, THAT'S OK!!  We aren't perfect, and no one has "arrived".  Each day we have a chance to do better than the day before.  We learn from our mistakes, and we give those areas of our life over to God.  Ask Him to help you see your WHOLE life as MINISTRY!  Try to do all things for God....work, home, friends, play..etc.  When we do this...we are like the hands of an artist, you can't help but see the evidence of their hearts passion.  

PRAYER

Dear Jesus, May I have messy hands for you.

My heart is to serve you in all things....not just "churchy" things.  My life is one of ministry, and I desire to know you and make you know.  Lord, may they see You in me as I live this life you have blessed me with.  May I never lose site of this.

In Christ Jesus,

AMEN

#K12ARTCHAT TONIGHT!!!

Join me tonight for #k12artchat!!!  I'll be hosting a twitter chat on Professional Development/Summer PD.  If you are on twitter...please stop by!!  It runs from 8:30pm CST to 9:10pm.  You can stay as long as you like...just watch...or jump right in!!  Don't forget to follow me!!!

@ArtWithMrE

#jfj15for30 Challenge

During the month of June I participated in Journal Fodder Junkies Art Challenge!  SO MUCH FUN!! The idea was to create for at least 15 minutes a day in your art journal.  This was a good exercise for me.  I've found it very difficult to create with all that I have going on with....LIFE! (3 kids..6 & under) I didn't realize how much I missed my own creative pursuits.  Each day there would be a challenge prompt....so you had some direction, but fueled by your own creativity.  You can find mine & others' work if you go on twitter and search #jfj15for30.  You can also learn a ton about art journals and such at their website...  http://www.journalfodderjunkies.blogspot.com/

       

VBS 2015: Journey Off The Map

Some of the things I've been up to this summer.....

Every year I paint the set for VBS....I LOVED doing this years theme!!!  

The canvases are 20 ft long...and 8 ft tall.

I'm also in charge of crafts!(Imagine that?!?).  We set up stations on the floor that will accommodate up to 6 children.  Our largest groups were around 40 students(Our VBS is about 250 students.)   

We actually finger painted?!?!?! I never do that!!!  ha ha The kids loved it though, and the pictures turned out great.

We took group pictures of the students...so one of the crafts was a doodle frame.  We later laminated them, and placed magnates on the back.  They turned out great.

Here are my kiddos in front of the waterfalls!!  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Get Out of the Boat!

Let me set the scene.  

The disciples see Jesus walking toward them on the water and are afraid.

  Understandable, right?  

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But Jesus immediately said to them:  "Take courage!  It is I.  Don't be afraid."

"Lord, if it's you," Peter replied, "tell me to come to you on the water."  "Come," he said.Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.  But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord, save me!"  Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.  "You of little faith," he said, "why did you doubt?" 

Matthew 14: 27-31

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Henri Rousseau was a self taught artist.  Beginning his career later in life, he came onto the art scene during an interesting transitional time.  The Impressionists, Fauves, and Post-Impressionist were shaking up the art world.  Rousseau's work found itself in the mist of this.  Critics felt his art was terribly child like, and had nothing redeeming to say about it.   However, he persevered.  Rousseau continued to paint, show his work, and push forward.  He was not going to let the waves of "popular opinion" keep him from pursing his dream.  He could have never pursued his dream, he could have retreated when he heard the harsh words of the critics, he could have tried to fit more into what was "acceptable', he could have returned to the "comfort" of his old job,  BUT HE DIDN'T. He did not let fear keep him from stepping out and doing what was in his heart to do. Today, Henri Rousseau is considered to be one of the world's greatest artists, and his critics....long forgotten.

When I read in Matthew 14 about Peter attempting to walk to Jesus, what catches my attention is not the fact that Peter began to sink. I think all of us that follow Christ know there are times where we find ourselves "sinking" because we have taken our eyes off the Lord.  It happens.   No, I'm amazed that Peter got out of the boat! Though Peter was pretty impetuous, and it wasn't completely out of character to do such a thing.  I wonder what the other disciples were thinking?  "OH THAT PETER?!?" "Now that Peter has done it, I want to do it!"(Doubting Thomas) "Well, now we're going to have to find a new disciple!"  ha ha  Maybe they were kicking themselves for not getting out of the boat too?  

I sometimes think the hardest part is "getting out of the boat".  The fears of what "might be" can paralyze us.  How many times have we hesitated or completely ignored a prompting of the Holy Spirit?  Maybe the Lord wanted us to speak to someone, but we didn't want to come off crazy..or didn't want to "bother" them.  Has the Lord asked you to change professions, go on short term mission trips, start a bible study, give financially to someone or some ministry, or mentor a younger believer?  Are you afraid to step out of the boat and do what He is asking you?  I know it is hard.  But, I also know...HE IS FAITHFUL!  Don't fear what the "critics" might say.  They often speak from a place of not understanding.  The voice you need to listen to is the Lords.  

Be like Rousseau & Peter, and take a step of faith!  Don't let the distractions from those around you...or the things around you to keep you from pursuing what you know you should be!

PRAYER

Dear Jesus, help us to get out of the boat!

Allow us to know you in a way that removes all fear & doubt.

May our hearts be sensitive to Your leading, and 

may our ears be quick to hear Your voice.

The waves of the world...the words of the critics have no 

power over us.  Greater is He who is in me...than he who is in the world! 

In Your Name....AMEN

Sunday Morning Devotional: Taking Chances

When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, "Zacchaeus, come down immediately.  I must stay at your house today."  So he came down a once and welcomed him gladly.  All the people saw this and began to mutter, "He has gone to be the guest of a sinner."  But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, "Look, Lord!  Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount."  Jesus said to him, "Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham.  For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."

Luke 19: 1-10

As an artist(and I'd say many other fields)...stepping out of the "norm" is part of growth.  Risk taking isn't always popular though.  People often value routine & those that "get with the program".  I know this sounds absurd in relation to the arts. In college, I was told I should switch to oil because my themes were not appropriate for watercolor.  I was really bothered by this, because I felt that art was about pushing boundaries & taking risks. I found a way to continue pursing the themes/subject matter I wanted to pursue, and feel I've grown personally & artistically because of the challenges I encountered along the way.

Jesus did not always make "popular" choices.  In the case of Zacchaeus, Jesus truly went against "acceptable" behavior by going to his home.  Zacchaeus was a tax collector...and a pretty self serving one at that.  No self respecting Jew would want to go to the home of a known baddie.  However, unlike most "self respecting Jews" ...Jesus could see beyond what others saw.  He knew...if given the chance Zacchaeus would change his life around.  It just took someone taking a "risk".  Going against what was "acceptable", Jesus showed love to someone who was in desperate need of it!  Am I talking about Zacchaeus now...or us?  Before Jesus, we were just as unacceptable as Zacchaeus.  Sometimes we forget that we were/are just as much in need of a Savior.  

Do you know someone that needs you to take a "risk" with?  A friendship, an invitation to church, a kind word or deed done in the name of Jesus.....could change someones world.  Be the risk taker the Lord created you to be!  Be willing to stick your neck out.  I bet you will see a change...in yourself!(it is in God's hands regarding the heart of the other person).  

(I love turtles...and this is one of my fav sayings!)

PRAYER

Dear Lord, let me see with your eyes! 

 Let me be an instrument you use to meet the needs of others.  

Let me be an example of Your love.

Jesus, help me to not look at labels, but at the 

the love you gave to me...and may it compel me to 

love others.  Let me be the risk taker...

knowing you are always with me & 

will never leave me.  

AMEN

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: The Watercolor Way of Life

Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

Proverbs 16:3

When I tell people I studied watercolor in college, they usually respond with.."Watercolor!?  That is really challenging?"  I didn't really think of it like that when I was in school.  Honestly, I stuck with watercolor because it was too expense to switch over to oil (for my non-Art Ed friends...oil requires totally different brushes & supplies).  I committed to watercolor...no matter the reason...I was going to see it through.  The reason many people feel watercolor is challenging though...is that you can't take back the marks you make.  With oil you can remove & acrylic you can paint over, but when you paint with watercolor....you are making a commitment.

  Commitment is kind of a fading concept in our society.  People don't commit to anything.  Jobs, marriage, mortgage, and a host of other things are just commitments while it's convenient. (please know I'm aware that there are many valid reasons for some of these commitments to end...but I'm speaking of commitments of convenience).  We aren't willing to pick up the brush...and make a mark.  God's desire is that we would commit our ways to Him!  He doesn't say commit the easy things...the fun things...the things you know you'll be successful in.  He wants you to commit ALL your ways to Him!!  I love this because I feel my life is ministry...my job, my hobbies, my family...my everything can bring glory to the Lord if I commit it to Him.  If you are thinking there are some things in your life you can't commit to Him....then you may want to reconsider if it is something that you need in your life!!  

Pick up the brush...make a mark...commit to it!! What is the worst that can happen?  You make a mistake? God won't be shocked by that.  In art we call them happy accidents...because they can add character to our work or move it in an unexpected direction that turns out being more than we could have imagined.  In our walk with God...mistakes are opportunities to grow in Him....accept grace...and learn from the situation.  It gives us a testimony to share with others.

No matter....COMMIT TO THE LORD WHATEVER YOU DO!

PRAYER

Dear Lord, allow us to have holy boldness to step out in our faith & trust you with it.  You don't call us to be perfect, but to step out in faith & trust you with the results.  Allow us to be willing to commit all our ways to You.  May our steps of faith glorify you & bring us into a closer relationship with You.  

In Your Name Lord ....AMEN

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: How To Be

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Colossians 2:6-7

As artists we take our life experiences, art experiences, training, and imagination everywhere we go.  Anything & Everything can be inspiration for our art.  Sketch books, napkins, digital collections fill up with promising concepts for future work! Making art becomes a basic need for existing.    However, there can be seasons of our life where we are not creating.  It happens: job, family, LIFE!  I've heard it said that it is like riding a bike...you just get back on & go.  I don't really feel that is true.  It is very easy to slip into bad habits, struggle to concentrate, and get easily frustrated when we're out of the artistic habit of creating. I picture the artist like a stagnant pond.  It has all the makings for life & vibrancy, but with not input or output...it becomes mucked up!  It will take a little bit of time getting yourself back into the swing of things...discipline & hard work will once again allow you to see the fruit of your labor.

Our walk with God is the same way.  Life can sometimes get in the way...and we find ourselves not reading our Bible, not spending time in prayer, lacking fellowship with believers, and forget about any kind of discipleship/mentoring going on.  When this happens, we come stagnant....disconnected....out of touch with The Giver of Life!   Our life no longer reflects one passionately seeking after God.  We stop seeing some of the exciting God things that use to be apart of our daily walk with Him.  He has never left & He is still there in your life, but you aren't seeing fruit.  Yes, we can confess our sin(which really it is...putting other things before God), and ask for God to help us keep Him first in all things.  But you have to play a part in this! Getting back into the Word, praying, and spending time with brothers and sisters in Christ(we're all hypocrites and slackers....they will welcome you back! Haha).  You will begin to see God's hand at work in your life, you will know He is with you(and never left you in the first place).....and the fruit will grow once more!  

Receiving Christ is where it STARTS....but we must be ROOTED in Him....and continue on on!  Continuing on is not stagnant...it is active & moving!  Just like our faith (and art) should be!  

PRAYER

Dear Lord, help me to never lose focus of you!  

May I make my relationship with you a priority, and let it be ever moving, growing, and going deeper! Allow my life show the relationship I have with you...and may I seek out opportunities to make you know through my life, actions, words, and art!

Amen

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Judge/Critique

Do not judge, or you too will be judged.  For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of saw dust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?  How can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye," when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?  You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.  

Matthew 7: 1-5 (NIV)

I remember the first time I "participated" in a critique.  It was a very vulnerable & raw experience. It shouldn't have been though.  A critique is designed to be a detailed analysis/assessment.  Basically...just the facts.  There is no emotion or opinion to a true critique.  They are meant to inform.  That information can then be used to improve upon the original work, or be used for future endeavors. Unfortunately, critiques are often judgement filled sessions of destruction. Opinions are used to assert superiority/dominance of the given subject matter/medium/technique.  What should be used as a tool for growth....often is misused & ineffective.

In Matthew 7:1-5 we are warned about judging others.  Too often those that are the quickest to judge have the same issue...or one "greater" than the person they are judging.  Why?  If they are able to point out the problems in others, then they can feel better about their own ("At least I'm not as bad as ____").  We also must be careful not to hold "the world" to the same standards Christians. You can not expect someone to behave like Christ if they do not know Him!  Christ came to Earth, lived as an example to us all, died to take away the sins of all who believe, and rose again to give us new life in Him. I don't remember Him telling me to go around being hateful, unkind, and judgmental to those who don't know Him. My life goal is to know God & make Him known.  I have no time for judgement if that is truly my goal!!  

A Time To Critique

.  If we want to grow in our relationship with Christ, we must have people that can "critique" our lives.  Having that person who can say, "I see this area in your life that doesn't reflect the Lord like it should."....will help us to mature in our faith.  It isn't always easy to hear the truth, but if it is coming from someone we love & respect...than we can trust that they are saying it for our good.  Make sure you have permission to speak into that person's life.  If they aren't willing to hear it from you...maybe God has someone else He wants to use in their life.  

I saw a great art critique poster from educationcloset.com 

This might be a great way to go about approaching people!  

" How do you feel things are going?   You are such a hard worker, and I love how you jump in behind the scenes to get the job done!  However, I've noticed that you are a little gruff with people that don't seem to know what they are doing.  A more Christ like response would be to show compassion & grace.  Maybe ask them if they need some help, and you can model for them what they should be doing."  

PRAYER

Lord, let us be people that are quicker to love & share grace than judge.

Thank you Jesus for loving me...and forgiving me of my sin.  

I pray that I have your heart for the lost.

I pray I have your eyes to see the need.

May my life reflect the Truth of You & what You have done for me.

In Christ Jesus,

AMEN

Paint Roller A.D.D.?

                                    

It is VBS prep time again...and that means repainting huge backdrops for the main stage area(think set for a play).  I am the one to call for organization and set up...I love it & can do it blindfolded.  However...whenever I get a paint roller in my hand...I can't focus!?!?  I jump from canvas to canvas(or wall to wall)...and put a little color everywhere?!?  Anyone else like that?   

   

Summer Art!

                                 

     My kiddos are experiencing the beach for the first time!  They love it!!  We have enjoyed building sand castles together.  My oldest (6yrs) loves decorating them with shells and sea weed!  Though the beach is not my favorite place...I am loving this time with my family. Hope you are enjoying your summer break too!  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: God Doesn't Make Sense?!?!

Duchamp's The Fountain

...but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong...

1 Corinthians 1:27

The first time I saw Duchamp's "The Fountain"...I was flabbergasted.  That was art?  Really?  I knew growing up in a forest with little art exposure I had a lot to learn, but a urinal was not art!   However...I was asked to look at it not with what I knew...but what I did not know.  Sometimes, when we don't understand things...we need to come with open heart & mind, and a willingness to learn.  (ps...I still don't care for The Fountain, but I'm thankful for it helping me gain new perspective).

Ever feel like God doesn't make sense, or the things He is doing doesn't make sense?  

Well, you are in good company....we've all been there.  To be honest with you though, you probably understand God & His ways better than those who think they have it all figured out!  Those that come to God honestly searching will find Truth a lot faster than those that think they've got it figured out...because they've probably put God in a box.  I use to think I really understood God....I knew Him...I knew His Word...and I knew how He worked.  However, I was placed in a situation that was completely foreign to me.  I felt lost...confused....and wondered where God was in the midst of it.  

What most would consider a negative experience, I later saw as the beginning of understanding.  God never fails to amaze me how He will use the craziest(foolish) things to help me to know Him...and make Him known.  He meets me right where I am at....and speaks to me by any means necessary!  

PRAYER

Lord, thank you for speaking to me...right where I am. I praise you for using the " foolish " things of this world...I praise you for using me!!  May I never try to put you in a box...but seek you out as you truly are.  Thank you Lord!  

Ending & Beginning

         

  Today is our(teachers) last day.  Busy packing up for the summer...trying to purge, organize, and set up for next year(like my colors for next year?).  Excited for summer....and excited for next year. Going to try to fuse a lot of science in....we'll see how it goes!  Stay tuned all summer long..school might be over, but Mr. E never stops! Haha

Silly Request: VOTE!!!!

Totally silly...non-arted related request.  

CAN YOU GO VOTE FOR ME??

As of this morning...it was a very close race between me and another singer(yes..I said singer).  Winner gets a $50 gift card...and for a family of 5...that would be a blessing!!!!

Go to Facebook & "LIKE" Chick-fil-A Lebanon.

Then scroll down till you find my video...it will say something about sing for your supper and then my name...TED EDINGER. When you find me..."LIKE" my video.  Voting closes at 8pm CST.

THANK YOU!!!  Go to my Facebook page for Art With Mr. E to see if I win. 

YA'LL ROCK!!! 

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: K.I.S.S.

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.  If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if i have faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, i am nothing.  If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, i gain nothing.  

love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.  Love never fails. 

1 Corinthians 13: 1-8a

KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID!

Have you ever heard of the K.I.S.S. Method before?  KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID.  Yes, it is a bit crass, but the point is clear.  How often we muck things up by being fussy, over explaining, or not meeting people where they are at.  I know that when I try to say too much in my art work...it never says anything I want it to say!  I end up overworking the idea, and am left with something that does not reflect the image that was imagined within.  Creating purely...without filtering it through training, thoughts of who will be viewing it, if someone will buy it, or if it is "relevant" will allow the artist to speak from their heart.  

Paul Klee is credited with this quote, "Children also have artistic ability, and there is wisdom in their having it!  The more helpless they are, the more instructive are the examples they furnish us; and they must be preserved free of corruption from an early age."  

In Matthew 19:14 we see Jesus saying " Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

Why do Klee & Jesus refer to children with such fondness.  Children keep it simple & pure!
This is good for art & for faith.

ART TEACHER: WHAT DID YOU MAKE?
CHILD:  I MADE MY MOMMY BECAUSE I LOVE HER.

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER: WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT JESUS?
CHILD:  JESUS LOVES ME..THE BIBLE TELLS ME SO.(direct quote from my 3 yr old)

If we could regain this beautiful simplicity in our life...how much better off would we be!  We read in 1 Corinthians 13: 1-8a about love.  It isn't about all the other "stuff"...it is about love. Without love...the "stuff" is meaningless.  Pretty simple, right?  Can we not get back to the basics?

READ GOD'S WORD...IT IS HIS LETTER OF LOVE TO EACH OF US
SPEND TIME PRAYING....DON'T YOU LIKE TALKING & LISTENING TO THE ONES YOU LOVE & WHO LOVE YOU?
SHARE GOD'S LOVE WITH OTHERS...YOU ALREADY TALK ABOUT THE TEAMS, PRODUCTS, STORES, AND BOOKS YOU LOVE....WHY NOT YOUR SAVIOR?
SPEND TIME WITH GOD'S PEOPLE...IF HE LOVES THEM...SHOULDN'T YOU? (YES THEY ARE ALL HYPOCRITES...YOU'LL FIT RIGHT IN!!!)

PRAYER

God..You are worthy of my praise.  You are worth of my love.  You are worthy of my life.
I thank you for loving me.  I ask that you help me to get back to the basics.
 Help me to embrace the simplicity of the gospel & Christian life:  LOVE!
May this simple message of love impact me to the core & how I live, work, play, interact...love!

In Christ Jesus....AMEN

Ummmmm.....

Do you ever come across those 

pictures that make ya giggle...

like a middle school boy???  

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Things Above

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Colossians 3:1-2

Grant Wood is an amazing American artist best know for his painting American Gothic, but it is his landscapes I love.  I grew up in the Midwest, and his idealized landscapes/farm scenes truly appeal to me.  The order and simplicity he brings to his paintings shows a Utopian view of rural life.  Though it is lovely.. it is not reality. It comes off a bit peculiar/ plastic 

Many idealize the time, place, and life we find ourselves.  The conveniences, advancements, wealth, and opportunity become gods.  Though we are somewhat aware of the issues of our world, we continue on in our bubble of self importance & self sufficiency. 

We idealize our role in this world.  We minimize our negative impact on it.  We show the world what we want them to see...important, powerful, pre-packaged perfection. 

In Colossians 3:1-2, we are asked to set our hearts & minds on things above, and not on things of this earth.  Our hearts and minds should be on the Lord!  If they are then we'll not concern ourselves with the things of this world.  Not that we should go live in a cave somewhere to avoid "THE WORLD", but that when we have our hearts & minds on Him...the things of this world do not distract us.  We do not waste time trying to obtain meaningless things or approval.  We do not worry about an idealized version of ourselves...because all we know to be is real...authentic.  That's what "the world" needs...real people loving God...living life...making a difference for Him!  

PRAYER

Dear Lord, thank you for loving me.

 Thank you for Your Word.

 Allow me to keep my heart & mind on You,

 and may my life reflect those things.

May this world lose it's appeal,

 but let my heart break for those trying to be like it.

May Your grace & love guide my tongue as I speak

    to those you place in my path as long as I have life.   

In Your Name Lord Jesus,

AMEN

Tree Weavings: 4th Grade

Tree Weavings in Progress

This is the lesson made famous by Mrs. Cassie Stephens!  I usually do a more traditional rectangle 9in x 13in weaving.  However, time seemed in short supply this year.  The tree weaving takes a lot less time & is more forgiving for those students that struggle with hour glassing.  Week one I had students draw & paint a landscape for the background.  Week two they warped their loom & started the first string.  Week three students continued the weaving and began adding beads.  Most students are almost finished after week three.  It will take a partial class to finish the rest.  They've loved it!!  Adding the beads was a new trick for me....but I really like it.  Even if I return to the rectangular weaving...I think I'll keep the beads!!  

                                     

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: Perspective

'As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.  Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.  There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called, one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all.  

Ephesians 4: 1-6

I really enjoy teaching perspective drawing, and one point perspective is my favorite. It is a concept that most students will wrestle with at first.  Making sure that EVERYTHING is lined up with that point can be a struggle.  Even one line that does not line up with the point can throw the whole thing off.  However, once they get that "THE POINT OF THE POINT IS TO GO TO THE POINT" they are able to draw with great success.  

Our lives are very much like one point perspective.  We must line EVERYTHING up with the Lord.  Anything not in alignment with the Lord & His Word will throw things off. We allow selfishness, anger, greed, apathy...or a host of other things to take our focus off of God, and our lives will not look as they should.  Ephesians 4:1-6 feels like perspective to me.  We are reminded of our calling, to be humble, loving, and united in Him. If we have those things in perspective, then our lives will operate as God intended.  For those of us who know the Lord, we should pray that God will make us aware when our lives begin losing focus on Him.  We should also strive to have brothers & sisters in the Lord that will hold us accountable and know us well enough to call us out when they see things are not right.  

The Point of the Point is to Go to the Point!  

In this crazy world where distractions are EVERYWHERE....KEEP THE POINT THE POINT! 

PRAYER

Lord, let our life focus on you. May everything we do line up with Your will and desire for our life. May our attitudes and actions reflect that focus of our hearts.  

Amen

Pattern Fish: 1st Grade

        

End of the year is almost here!  I like to do some projects with my younger ones to make sure they they have mastered some of the important skills.  Cutting, gluing, pattern, craftsmanship(in coloring)...stuff like that!  These fish get all those skills into one project(two class times).  We looked at Zentangles for inspiration.  I feel that some of the sites out there can really open students eyes up to patterns being more than circle square circle square!!!  

   

     

Oh Georgia!

          

I tend to put some of my best student work on my blog....I think most of us do that.  However, like you....some of my students struggle to follow directions, complete tasks, or give me their best work.  Aren't we all like that from time to time? 

So how do we motivate the student that is not meeting grade level expectations?

PATIENCE is a big thing!  At the end of the school year...I know it can be in short supply.  Many of our children need to be loved & encouraged through the struggles.  Sometimes those struggles are not reflective of their feelings/abilities for art...but go deeper into personal/home life issues.  Not that we need to make excuses...but have understanding.

Next...don't let them get away with it!  Call them out on what they are doing wrong.  They won't grow if they don't know...or aren't made aware that you expect more from them.

Spend time with them...set down and work beside them with one of your examples.  Model good artist behavior...model good craftmanship.  Things like this are better caught than taught.  They "catch" you doing the right thing...they may try to "copy" that behavior!!  

Not long now...you can do it!!!  Help your kids finish out strong!!

Teacher Appreciation Week

If no one else tells you....I APPRECIATE YOU!

  Your efforts may go unnoticed by many...but I know the thought, energy, and effort that goes into what you do.  You reach children in a way that other subjects can't!  You may be misunderstood by some, but the kids get you & what you do....and really....that is why we do what we do!!!  You are a creative power house! You bring a skill set others dream about.  You bring heart to the institution of education.  

YOU. ARE. AWESOME.

As an art educator & a father of three...I say to you...you are loved, valued, and appreciated!!  Know you make a difference. I know that your beauty makes school more beautiful for hurting children, for frustrated children, for kids that are just about ready to give up!  

YOU. BRING. HOPE.

So dear friends...if you are feeling unappreciated...if you are feeling burn out...if you aren't sure you can go on another day(or another year)....please know your worth is not in the frustrations...but the successes that happen on a daily basis in your classroom.  

THANK. YOU. FOR. BEING. AN. ART. TEACHER.

Sunday Devotional With Mr. E: PRAISE

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth.  Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.  Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.  For great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; he is to be feared above all gods.  For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the Lord made the heavens.  Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and glory are in his sanctuary.

Psalm 96: 1- 6

When I first saw Christo's work, 

I thought it was.....interesting.

The grand scale was enough to cause awe/wonder,

 but I still wondered WHY? 

Have you ever taken something/someone for granted?  You get use to it/them.  They no longer seem special.....just "the norm".   A new restaurant, romance, recreation, friend...at first you talk about them to everyone you know(and some you might not know).  Then you mention it every once and awhile.  Soon people are having to ask you...."Hey, what was that restaurant you went on and on about?"  "How is your relationship going?"  "Are you still enjoying working out?"  

As I asked the question "WHY?" about Christo's work....I realized something.  I was noticing something I might have overlooked otherwise.  Somehow the art brought attention to what had been right in front of me all along.  Though I appreciate his work....it made me appreciate "HIS" work even more!  Christo's art brings back the awe & wonder to what had been there all along.  

Too often I find myself use to the goodness of God.  I take for granted His gift of love & life.   I forget the blessing I have in His Word!   I want to point people to the Lord.  I want to put a spot light on His awesomeness.  I want to bring Him honor...and glory.  He is great and worthy to be praised!  May I never become so use to His creation...His grace...His presence in my life that I "forget" or "forgo" giving Him the praise!

PRAYER

Dear Lord,  Thank you for who You are,

for all you've done,

and for loving me so beautifully.

Lord may Your praise be on my lips.

May it be uncontainable.

May my eyes & my heart see how worthy you are to be praised....EACH & EVERY DAY!