In 2002, I put together a kit for painting outdoors (en plein air). Since I live in a city (Los Angeles), I went mostly to a street corners to paint.

Art Opens Doors

I have learned a great deal about the spiritual plight of people on the 300+ street corners where I have painted. I've learned that art opens doors for friendly conversation. More importantly, I have watched God open hearts.

Seeking the Lost

Initially, I went out specifically to seek the lost. I would somewhat dismiss Christians who stopped to watch me paint. Then, one day when I read Luke chapter fifteen, I saw something that changed my idea of seeking the lost. We know the story of the lost sheep, the lost coin and the prodigal son. Might the prodigal also be considered as a lost son? As I began to spend time with those Christians I met on street corners, I discovered that some (indeed, many) of them were lost; lost from hope, lost from determination and lost from their talent.

When the prodigal son returned, his father gave him a party. There was music, dancing and much merrymaking. In other words, people got creative. Visual arts is among the means God uses to satisfy the need for creative expression among many of His children.

Many people I met, both on and off the streets confessed to having artistic talent, but for some reason had abandoned it or allowed it to lie dormant.

If you are that person, God wants to awaken that talent. Or, you may be active with your art. God wants to take it even higher.

A Call to Action

Are you affiliated with a group (church, art club, social, etc.) and would like to have me speak and/or conduct a plein air workshop? Please contact me. Let's arouse that sleeping giant in you.

A word of caution: Procrastination is one of the biggest thieves of creativity.