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” (Ecclesiastes 9:18).
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.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Luke 10:25-42
More:
Check out Exodus 35:30-35 to catch a glimpse of God’s views on art and creativity. Read Ephesians 2:8-10 and ponder how you are God’s work of art.
Next:
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?
lindagma on August 1, 2011 at 6:34 am
This is truly uplifting Tim. I’m an artist of sorts…kind of dabble in a lot of different media but I’ve been discouraged with the “wisdom” that few artist really make money with their talent. I also write, and all the experts say, “don’t quit your day job.” It’s frustrating to have the gift of artistic talent that will reap nothing in the way of support. Especially when you are in desperate need of an “income producing” career.
It is a lovely thought that I emulate God when I use my artistic talent. All is not lost.
tim gustafson on August 1, 2011 at 6:50 am
Thanks, Linda. As a young writer, I heard much of the same: “You’ll never make money.” I guess there’s a biblical precedent of sorts with the apostle Paul and his tent-making career that apparently helped fund his ministry. I’ve got friends who are ministers but hold second jobs. I think it comes down to this question: What gives me joy? We should be doing what God designed us to do.
winn collier on August 1, 2011 at 7:48 am
I love the notion of our creativity being participation in this act of God’s renewal.
OnMyWayHome on August 1, 2011 at 10:55 am
I have always loved working in construction the joy of creating something and to do good work for others. Many of times I would even say, “I get paid for doing what I love to do”. Even more was seeing the talent of others that was even better and greater than mine and I got to work on the same job as them.
I am older and also sick as of late and I look back and wonder will I ever get a chance to build with my hands to forge ahead on another project? Then I think and I say I am thankful that the Lord gave me the strength for the days that I work.
I do so miss working along side others and the camaraderie and the love of helping others.
tim gustafson on August 1, 2011 at 11:34 am
Excellent point! A big part of the Exodus 35 passage is that God seems to take joy in the fact that gifted people can contribute to designing and building things for His glory. I think we feel alive when we are able to do that. It’s a double benefit when we are able to create something as part of a team.
mike wittmer on August 1, 2011 at 9:39 pm
The destruction for no reason reminds me of Augustine’s boyhood story of stealing pears just so he could throw them away. Even small acts of destruction, when done for no benefit at all, are a reflection of an evil soul.
marvin williams on August 2, 2011 at 8:33 am
Each act of destruction, no matter how small, really is a vandalism of shalom, isn’t it? If I sit idly by and do nothing about small acts of destruction of which I am aware, am I not a participant and just as culpable? Great article, Tim and very thought-provoking comments, ODJ community.