The Art of Prayer in Art
When we open ourselves up to exploring our creativity, we open ourselves up to God: good orderly direction. As we open our creative channel to the Creator, many gentle but powerful changes are to be expected.
- Meditations from the Artists Way by Julia Cameron
When I first began to create visual art, it never occurred to me that this would lead me on a journey into a deeper act of participation with God. Once I got over trying to copy what I saw in a photograph, a still life, or a landscape I relaxed and became friends with art and discovered the true meaning of seeing, listening, creating.
Creating a new work is much like Lectio Divina with its four distinct movements of Read, Reflect, Respond and Rest.
The prayer begins.
Setting up my work area and preparing the surface I plan to paint on helps to open my mind into the journey on which I will embark. I usually have at least one or more photographs along with thumbnail sketches and colour studies placed around my “station” for quick reference. This is the first “movement” … Read.
Reflecting how I will execute the work, sometimes I will read a poem, inspirational or meditative writing, children’s illustrated books, or even watch a video on an art technique. Often, I just sit and study the reference work while listening to quiet music. On a cold dark winter evening it is delightful to be in my studio, light a candle, and sit in prayer for 15-20 minutes. This helps me clear and set my mind on its path. This is the second “movement” … Reflect.
“Porch Light”
Now I can set my hands to work pulling it altogether using the brush, paints, and tools to wander down the creative way. Sometimes the road signs are clear on where to let the brush travel. Other times it takes a slight turn or even comes to a complete halt. I have learned not to let this upset or bother me any longer. It can often mean that I just need to go to another place on the canvas, create another sketch, try another colour, or even take a break. Sometimes I need to go back to reflect on what this scene is trying to tell me; I must be still and “listen.” It will eventually reveal itself—sometimes in unexpected ways. This is the most delightful part when a revelation breaks through. An “aha” moment or in my case a “hee-hee” sneaks into the work. I wholeheartedly believe God has a sense of humour. This is the third “movement” … Respond.
The fourth “movement” is often the hardest. To rest. Put the brush down. Give the work a rest. Go about your other daily tasks before you come back to look again … Rest.
“Westham Weekday”
Just as Lectio Divina and Contemplative Prayer has changed how I listen and think about God, the act of creating art (not copying) has changed my reason for why I create art. What began as a desire to simply make a picture to cover the walls in my own living space has gone on to become a ministry in a sense. The whimsy and bright colours have become more intentional. It’s my way of countering all that is sad, painful, joyless, and angry in this world. It takes the saying “Ora et Labora” to another level—not just praying while you work but the work itself becomes a prayer. My work becomes my prayer for those that view it and I pray they take joy in what they see.
I would be the first to say my work is perhaps not great art but it is done with great love.