Created to Create for God’s Glory
Arts Fellowship Orlando plein-air painter: Jonathan Stemberger in action
“The most important work of an artist is not what he or she creates. It is in the work of being created by the grace of God. The primary focus of the artist is the working out of his salvation. What the artist creates or produces in terms of works of art is always secondary to becoming a work of art in reality…He does not simply paint on canvas; he himself becomes a painting for the glory of God.”
–Jonathan Jackson, The Mystery of Art: Becoming an Artist in the Image of God
Journeying with and mentoring this year’s Arts Fellowship Orlando (AFO) fellows has been a deep joy. God is forming our four male fellows into a creative brotherhood marked by creativity and collaboration in the cross-section of art and faith. Throughout the six-month fellowship, each artist shares his work-in-progress three times to differing sized audiences. During these showcases, the artists invite attendees into their creative process and offer a glimpse into what God is creating in them and through them as they bring their vision to life.
An important part of the fellowship experience is helping the artists uncover the deep story behind their work that fuels their creativity. Equally essential is equipping the artist to communicate that story through their art and their words. Karen (my partner) and I are committed to developing these gifted artists holistically so that they can meaningfully connect with a culture that is longing for truth, beauty, and hope.
Jonathan shares about his process of painting the Greek Orthodox Church, intentionally integrating a passerby and an ice cream truck that happened to be parked in front of him that day
I asked Jonathan if he would share a taste of what he is experiencing in AFO. Here is what he said,
“Arts Fellowship Orlando is not a prize to be won, but a commission to be carried out. At the intersection of art and faith I’ve been evaluating how my relationship with God aligns with my artistic discipline of plein-air painting. I’ve found AFO to be an engaging program filled with mentorship and theological study along with guidance and support in the skills of communication and public presentation. The impact has been encouraging! I’ve encountered a unity among believers within a community of creatives sharing the love and hope of Christ.”