Pursuing Christ. Creating Art.: Exploring Life at the Intersection of Faith and Creativity

by Gary A. Molander

PURSUING CHRIST. CREATING ART. is written for people who are living in the intersection of the Christian faith, and the creation of art. By their nature, artists look at a life of faith differently, and that unique journey warrants an exploration of what it means to be a Christ-follower and an artist. The book intentionally veers away from tips and techniques and formulas, while concentrating on the journey, the mystery, and the heart.

Genres: Art, Christian, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Theology

176 pages, Hardcover

First published June 24, 2011

Reviews

[Annette Ridenour · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although not every moment was a bit, the intersection of faith and creativity and especially how it collides with the church is a unique intersection with not a lot of authors. Therefore, there were many quotes that grabbed me and ideas that made me think. I thought the reflection on church marketing at the end was right on and fascinating, and the reflection of the church culture itself, the same.

[Ruben Santa-Cruz · Rating 1 out of 5]

First things first. I bought this book over a decade ago and it lived a decent life on my book shelf ever since. In lieu of making more room for future books, I’m making a conscious effort of chipping away at my forsaken library.

That said, this book was a hodgepodge of entries that would’ve been better left unwritten. A robust Christian framework for art and artistic development is an important topic. Unfortunately, you won’t find any substance here.

[Gideon Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the marriage of simplicity and depth of heart! I went through this with my worship team, and it was great! More a conversation-starting type book, but still a solid, enjoyable, and easy read.

[hannah g · Rating 3 out of 5]

i read this book for my intro to media arts class. lots of good stuff in here, but it was a book of opinions. my professor has spoken with the author and he has rescinded some of his points, which isn’t the best look.

[Kevin Lucia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this some time ago, meant to leave a review, and never did. In any case - an interesting collection of essays about creating Art, and the intersection of art and faith. However, it's strong suit might also be viewed by some as it's weak point: that this collection of essays doesn't offer any answers. They're centered on the truth that, because we're human, and humans will always be flawed and conflicted, our pursuit of art is also always going to be flawed and conflicted. These essays don't offer answers so much as an honest grappling with this issue.

For me, it felt like a breath of fresh air. While not as well written as Madaleine L'Engle's WALKING ON WATER: MEDITATIONS ON ART AND FAITH, it did beat along the same rythmn: that a Christian heeding the desire to create Art isn't selfish, or serving our own needs: it's simply an outgrowth of our innate desire to imitate the Artist Himself.

[Nathan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great, short thoughts on doing creativity and ministry. I take many of our interns through this book each year because he brings up a wide range of topics you have to deal with as an artist and as a pastor / minister. I love his honest, realistic approach to the bitterness, disillusionment, and discouragement that can come from these sorts of roles and helps give some good thoughts for navigating.

[Jared Totten · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book. Humorous reflections from a Creative Arts director and a couple of his friends. If I had one critique, the title isn't really fitting. But while "Pursuing Christ" represents half the title, it represents less than half of the book. Light on the Christian element, heavier on the creating art and working with artists and your pastor element.

[Macie Cantrell · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pursuing Christ; Creating Art! This was an easy read. There were many parts that I connected with. Although, I felt it was a bit redundant at times and often skipped around. It seemed like it was written from random thought as opposed to thought out reflections. It was still a read I will not regret and would recommend for any artist.

[Zackary Russell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great devotional book for artists using their skills for God's kingdom. This author is very much a pastor to fellow artists, and he addresses honestly and deeply a ton of heart issues that we face. He encourages, warns, instructs and inspires, with lots of wisdom and great humor as well. I consider this to be a critical read for those involved in media ministry.

[mark meeks · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a pastor and creative director, this book is the first recommendation I give to my volunteers. its a great insight into burn-out, purpose, calling, and creativity. Especially for artists, but applicable for everyone. can't recommend this enough!!

[Pam Howell · Rating 4 out of 5]

This would be a good book to go through with your team. It is written in pieces, which makes it easy to read some & discuss with the others you serve with.

[Mitch Bolton · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's encouraging as an artist in the church. It certainly challenged me as an artist, and Gary Mo transformed how I view my identity as an artist and a Christ-follower.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a word, I'd say this book was Encouraging. A must-read for Christian artists.

[Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books on being an artist and following Jesus I have ever read. Candid, real, honest, and refreshing. Pick it up now.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review forthcoming

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encouraging. I will definitely be reading this one again. :)