Artful Faith — My top ‘art & faith’ book picks and wishlist

A column in which Marzanne Slabbert explores the enigmatic fusion of faith and art in South Africa. Join her on an artistic journey and explore the many ways in which God is using the visual arts!

As we journey through the intersection of creativity and spirituality, I’ve compiled a list of enlightening reads that offer a fresh perspective on the profound connection between our artistic expressions and faith. Here’s a rundown of books that have deeply influenced my views, with others I’m eager to dive into soon.

Recommended Reads

1. Art and Faith: A Theology of Making by Makoto Fujimura

Makoto Fujimura’s book, developed over three decades in his studio, explores the deep link between creativity and spirituality. Fujimura combines aesthetic creation, using crushed minerals on handmade paper, with theological reflection, involving practices like awareness, waiting, prayer, and praise. Drawing from biblical texts, T.S. Eliot, Mark Rothko, and Kintsugi, he shows how art deepens our divine understanding and advocates for “slow art” as a method of cultural and spiritual engagement. Described by Christian Wiman as an “accidental theologian,” Fujimura’s work offers art as a means of hope, redemption, and spiritual encounter, encouraging readers to find renewal through creating.

2. Born to Create: Stepping into Your Supernatural Destiny by Theresa Dedmon

In Born to Create, Theresa Dedmon merges creativity with divine destiny, drawing from her experiences at Bethel Church. She asserts that all believers are inherently creative, made in the image of the Creator, and urges them to use their gifts to impact the world positively. The book offers a practical approach, featuring modern-day testimonies and scriptural insights emphasising the importance of skill and spiritual anointing. Dedmon explores how creative freedom in fields such as art, business, and education can release healing and God’s love into society. Her narrative invites readers to engage deeply with their creative talents as a way to connect with the Creator.

3. Unlocking the Heart of the Artist by Matt Tommey

This book is a must-read for artists battling self-doubt and creative blockages.

It provides practical strategies to overcome these issues, focusing on how Christian faith can help restore and reignite an artist’s passion and purpose. Tommey emphasises spiritual and practical exercises that help artists reconnect with their creative callings, addressing both the emotional and spiritual wounds that impair creativity. The book encourages artists to view their work as a divine gift, aiming to enrich both their personal growth and the wider community.

4. The Artists’ Way by Julia Cameron

This international bestseller continues to touch the lives of Christian creatives years after its initial publication. Drawing from her own experiences as an artist and teacher, Cameron presents a transformative guide for individuals seeking to unlock their creative potential and live more fulfilling lives. Through a series of practical exercises, insightful reflections, and inspirational anecdotes, Cameron guides readers on a journey of self discovery, encouraging them to overcome self doubt, fear, and other obstacles that hinder their creative expression.

Central to Cameron’s philosophy is the belief that creativity is not a talent reserved for a select few but an innate human birthright. She advocates for a holistic approach to creativity — one that integrates mind, body, and spirit, and emphasises the importance of cultivating a sense of curiosity, playfulness, and gratitude in one’s creative practice. The Artists’ Way is a compelling roadmap for anyone seeking to tap into their creative potential, offering practical tools and timeless wisdom to help individuals unleash their inner artist and embrace a life of authentic expression and fulfilment.

My Wishlist

1. Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith by Russ Ramsey

Rembrandt Is in the Wind by Russ Ramsey is a captivating exploration of the spiritual dimensions of art, particularly the works of Rembrandt. Drawing from his own encounters with art, Ramsey demonstrates how art has the power to inspire, challenge, and illuminate the human spirit, offering a pathway to encounter God in unexpected and profound ways. This compelling book not only enriches readers’ spiritual lives but also serves as a valuable introduction to art history, philosophy, and biblical study, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to cultivate a deeper connection between their faith and their appreciation of art.

You can find a full book review here: https://www.shelfreflection.com/blog/rembrandt-is-in-the-wind

2. Imagine: A Vision for Christians in the Arts by Steve Turner

“Imagine art that is risky, complex, and subtle. Imagine music, movies, books, and paintings of the highest quality. Imagine art that permeates society, challenging conventional thinking and standard morals to their core. Imagine that it is all created by Christians! This is the bold vision of Steve Turner, who has worked among a wide variety of artists for decades. He believes Christians should confront society and the Church using art’s powerful impact. Art can faithfully chronicle the lives of ordinary people and express the transcendence of God. And Christians should be involved in every level of the art world and in every medium. In this revised and expanded edition of a contemporary classic, Turner builds a compelling case for Christians in the arts. If Jesus is Lord of all of life and creation, then art is part of his cultural mandate. It can and should be a way of expressing faith through creatively, beautifully, and truthfully arranged words, sounds, and sights. Now includes study questions for individual reflection or group discussion.” – Barnes & Noble

3. Art for God’s Sake: A Call to Recover the Arts by Philip Ryken

Philip Ryken’s book addresses the need for a renaissance of Christian art. Art for God’s Sake provides a concise, compelling argument for the role of art in the church and the world, emphasising that art should be a reflection of God’s beauty, truth, and goodness.

4. Walking on Water by Madeleine L’Engle

“There are those who write about art-making as if they’re detailing the techniques of a heart surgeon. Then there are those, like Madeleine L’Engle, who simply show you their heart. Like the words of Jesus to the fisherman brothers, the words of Madeleine are ‘follow me’ words. Through the pages of Walking on Water hungry, thirsty folks have been following for two decades – quickly recognizing that the reason Madeleine is worth following is that she follows Jesus.” – Charlie Peacock-Ashworth, record producer and author of At the Crossroads: An Insider’s Look at Contemporary Christian Music

These books, those I’ve read and those I’m eager to explore, offer rich insights into the relationship between art and faith. They suggest that creating is not just a human endeavour but a divine dialogue, rich with opportunities for expression and discovery. Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or someone interested in the spiritual dimensions of creativity, these books are sure to enrich your understanding and inspire your journey.

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