Although I would probably be quite happy to confine my artmaking to the Canadian Reformed reality in which I thrive, my simulaneous engagment with other communities (the secular, the artistic, the academic) presents not only a challenge, but also a glorious opportunity to connect people and ideas. So far, I haven’t found a metaphor better than “bridge building”. Someday I’ll make a painting on the topic to enrich the meaning a little; but for now, an Andy Goldsworthy arch will suffice.

Andy Goldsworthy - Ice Arch

At least one thing, though, remains certain: somewhere between the conversations I have at home in my Reformed world, and the interchanges that happen in Art 4C06 (my final course as an undergrad at McMaster) there is a common understanding and an overlap of interest. We can and should learn from each other. It is in this spirit that my art proposal for the year is written: The Fabric of Faith – Towards a Reformed Visual Theology.

As my mind begins to settle back into the Canadian reality, I have to realize the implications of who I am: an ex-Genevan intern, an ever-reformed christian, a traditional-digital artist, a part-time student, a penny-less fool. These realties imply responsibilities. Now is the time… to figure out what I learned in Europe, to glorify God, to create a new body of work, to give myself to the Mcmaster community, to find a way of getting paid through the activities that God has enabled me to love.

Here, I want to give some structure and focus to the poems and paintings and thoughts saved in spaces on my harddrive and in my head. In my previous blogs, I occasionally posted poems or pictures, but only as an aside to other kinds of documentation. Now I want to thrive on the creative urgency that wells up inside me: the feeling and the knowing that it’s better for me to take full responsibility for what I say (and paint). I want to fully realize that both my brain and my hands are equally called to follow Christ. So, there are things I clearly need to learn about humility. But perhaps by balancing conviction and an open mind, I will more fully engage you with my art, and more honestly consider your response.