ODJ: art and balance
August 1, 2011
We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago (Ephesians 2:10).
READ: Ecclesiastes 9:11-18
Organizers call it a “radically open art competition.” It’s also highly democratic. ArtPrize lures artists to my hometown with the possibility of winning substantial cash—if the attendees like what you create. Art aficionados can wander past hundreds of exhibits scattered throughout the city, but they can vote for only one.
Many of the works are awe-inspiring. An elaborate, multicolored ice sculpture took 9 months to create. A pencil drawing of cavalry soldiers appears so realistic, it’s almost indistinguishable from a photograph. (It was later judged to be the contest’s grand prize winner!) My favorite is a sculpture fashioned from a massive tangle of tree roots. The weathered face of an old man extends into branches that twist into shapes of animals.
So much talent should be rewarded. Yet the creators of the vast majority of these entries will receive nothing. Sadly, several exhibits have been the targets of vandalism. “The skillful are not necessarily wealthy,” said Solomon (Ecclesiastes 9:11). And “one sinner can destroy much that is good” (v.18).
Thankfully, the earthbound view of Ecclesiastes is not the end of God’s story. If we took such an attitude, we might grow frustrated in the face of deliberate destruction. On the other hand, if we believe that this world is of no consequence at all, we might think that art is a waste of time.
God designed us in His image. When we create artwork, we emulate our Creator. It’s a twisted soul who defaces beautiful art—destroying the work of another for no reason. Such acts are evil.
One day, God will make “everything new” (Revelation 21:5). Until then, let’s enjoy using our creative abilities for His glory. It’s good—and godlike—to enjoy art for art’s sake. —Tim Gustafson
Is your day-to-day philosophy earthbound? Or could your attitudes be too “heavenly”? How can you strike a balance of living in the world and following Jesus?
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HI! i’m an artist
but i quite dont understand the point of this…can anyone elaborate? Thanks! God bless