Here we go. Pull up a chair, get a cup of coffee and enjoy the show. Bill Pratt is amazing. You will love this interview, so please read to the end.
1. Who are you and what is your "art"?
I am Bill Pratt.
I suppose I am a digital artist, though I might be a musician and/or a photographer. Maybe life is my art, but in that case, I'm not very good at it, and sometimes I enjoy creating puns (is that art?).
I play a lot of music on instruments with strings and frets, though quite often the frets are mere graphics and I use a metal slide to change notes, as well as levers, pedals... it's a little complicated...
I take a LOT of photographs, even more since freeing myself of chemical addiction (going digital).
I work with digital multi-media:
sound & music;
photography, video, graphics & digital imagery;
text and spoken word.
2. How long have you been doing what you do? How did you get started?
There was a guitar under the Christmas tree 45 years ago. I played a ukulele from my grandmother's attic for a short time before that, and totally rocked out on Steven Collins Foster tunes, having no one to rebuke me for political incorrectness, since it hadn't been invented yet. A Christmas or two later I got my first reel to reel tape recorder, and from there it was a long slide into the current abyss. In college my roommate had a banjo, which is nothing other than a desperate cry for serious help, but I was hooked, so when I out I bought my own.
But I digress...
When I was in high school, companies like Texas Instruments and Royal Typewriter were just beginning to create programmable calculators. Back in those days the geeks carried slide rules in little belt holsters. (this is not a joke) All these programmable calculators would get dropped off at the school by salesmen as 'demos' and the math teachers would call me because I had a knack for figuring out how to work the things. I especially had a knack for creating bizarre outcomes the machines were never meant to produce, and, sadly, that started me on the path that led to becoming the geek I am today.
But I digress...
At around 10 years old, my grandmother (the ukulele one) gave me an Ansco Twin Lens Reflex camera with a huge flash reflector and leather case. My other grandparents also fed my addictions - they're the ones who bought me my first electric guitar, a Tiesco Del Ray in the classic pizza spatula style, 3 pickups and a whammy bar...
But I digress...
Music, photography and technology all became fascinating to me at a young age, and I followed them here.
3. How does your art fit into your schedule? When, where do you get it done?
It's never done (did I mention I enjoy puns).
Truly, I engage things creatively all day every day (in this weird, little mind of mine), and then work them out as time allows. I generally pray and meditate in the morning, then may do some artwork for awhile before going to work. I may create photographs as the day unfolds, and then work on various projects in the evening. Lisa (my bride) and I try to observe our Sabbath from Friday afternoon to Saturday afternoon. During that time, it seems, lots of ideas emerge.
My answer, then, is I am always seeking and always creating, art is my schedule.
4. How and where does God fit into your "art"?
God is first, last, and preeminent in all things. He is the source of inspiration, the source of any gift which allows us to create anything, and, if we are proper in serving the inspiration, (practically impossible in our fallen nature) He is the object of celebration in our work and product. He is the true possessor of our gifts, tools and time and the true decider of the outcome.
5. What is your definition of "art"?
Art is a human response to God.
To being made in His image (In the beginning God created...)
To His revelation in the form of His Creation, His Word, His provision in all things, and The Spirit's work in our lives.
To His awesome power and transcendence - we respond to His Truth, Beauty and Goodness.
That the artist may be unaware of these things in no way changes the essence of art.
6. Why do you love what you do?
It is what I was made to do.
It pleases God.
It may open the eyes of an audience to God's power, provision, transcendence, revelation and presence.
It may encourage other artists to engage their inspiration.
7a. Do you see your art as being mainly for you, for others, or for God?
At different times, in various ways it is for any combination of all three constituencies. In all cases I pray it is pleasing to God. I love the idea of worship and intimacy between God and me with no other purpose - for example sitting home alone singing worship songs, or just improvising. I am blessed ANY time He uses my work to encourage His body or open the eyes of seekers to His presence and power.
7b. Do you ever have trouble finding balance between those?
Sure. I am selfish and broken (wretched, depraved, without hope except for Jesus... I digress).
A quote from Del Tackett's introductory text for Lesson 8 of the Truth Project: "...it is the powerful human hunger for significance... that constitutes the single most formidable barrier to intimacy, communion, and oneness. All too often, we forsake the Lord and cut ourselves off from others in attempting to puff up our own sense of self-importance."
Guilty.
8. How is what you do "creative"? Do you see it as "art"?
Gruel is survival. Great soup is art.
Gruel may fill and fuel. Great soup responds to something beyond the basic need, and requires skill and creativity.
Music, photography, multi-media compositions are creative by nature - they respond to something beyond basic needs (though they can be profaned into acquisition, prideful self-promotion, etc., etc.)
Ansel Adams said, "Any art, to be good art, requires the utmost from the artist."
When I have been true to the vision God has given, I am comfortable calling the work art.
9. What inspires you?
Primarily God's Creation.
His Word, The Sacrifice of the Cross and examples of human nobility are pretty powerful as well.
10. Is there an artistic accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
Interesting question, if we claim "Soli Deo Gloria."
I provided several instrumental tracks for two albums recently released by Knoxville songwriter Greg Adkins. From my perspective, I was able to serve the work as well as any I've done, and I am pleased to have had a part in the productions.
11. What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
The relationships that have resulted, including intimacy with God and fellowship with other artists.
12. What is most challenging about what you do?
Committing to excellence rather than completion.
13. Share some of your philosophy about creativity.
Inspiration comes from the purest of places.
Our call is to respond in a way that honors the source, regardless of whether it will sell, impress, validate, or shock. Any of those may occur, but whether or not they do is God's business, not the artist's.
14. If there were no barriers (money/time restraints, location, etc.),what
would you love to create?
For a while I've wanted to create a multi-media installation called "Reverence," using a dedicated room, incorporating projection of still images and video, sound, music, lights, text and photographs.
I would also like to do a set of images to illustrate Psalm 104, perhaps for a book or video in the style of my recent Genesis project on the Art for the HEart blog.
15. Who are some of your favorite artists?
Ansel Adams (photographer), Paul Franklin (pedal steel guitarist), Garrison Keillor (story teller), Mary Chapin Carpenter (singer/songwriter).
16. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Lay your entire life before the God of the Universe. Admit you are of unclean lips in a culture of unclean lips and offer every corner of your life to His will and purpose. Then listen, and create excellent responses to His inspiration.
17. Is there a verse or quote that inspires you?
Philippians 4:8-9 Finally... whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
18. What is your next "Art Project?
I have several projects underway, in a variety of media, but I would love to do a festival worthy film - perhaps a documentary or an inspirational piece.
19. How can we pray for you?
Pray for clarity in discerning God's call and inspiration, courage in carrying it out, and a persistent commitment to excellence. (Thanks)
Bill Pratt
Monday, November 26, 2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Interview with Tom the Bomb
I first met Tom the Bomb when he heard that there was a magician at Calvary. (He was a magician in his "younger" days. He still is.) I met him, showed him a few tricks, and thus started our friendship. I performed on a three day tour performing magic for camps, daycares, etc. with Tom and I had a blast! Tom is a great guy and I think you will enjoy reading his interview. Please read to the end.
1. Who are you and what is your "art"?
Tom "the Bomb" Miyashiro; Author, Radio Personality, Evangelist
2. How long have you been doing what you do? How did you get started?
I went into ministry the same year I got saved... when I was 16, which was nearly 10 years ago!! I went into radio also at 16. I wrote the book by accident... I sent my manuscript to a publisher for feedback just to see if it was any good and ended up with a book deal!
3. How does your art fit into your schedule? When, where do you get it done?
I have been in full time ministry since January of this year. Before then, I spent all my spare time developing my radio program, Real Life Radio. I wrote the bulk of my first book on the plane ride home when we came back to America!!
4. How and where does God fit into your "art"?
God is at the center of all I do. I love to share the gospel with people that don't know Christ using any means, which includes all my talents and skills.
5. Why do you love what you do?
I love sharing the gospel because there is no better thing in life then to know that you have changed someone's forever. I love radio because I love talking and I love entertaining - I have been doing that my whole life! I also find that radio is a great way to proclaim Christ. I love writing because it is like leaving a legacy. When you publish something, it has the potential to outlive you. Writing is better than speaking because you have to spend more time thinking about how you want to communicate something in a way everyone can understand.
6. Do you see your art as being mainly for you, for others, or for God?
I think the cool thing about what I do is that it fills all three needs equally. By doing what God has called me to do, I get to do what I love, which serves others and meets their need, whilst obeying God! What a blessing!!
Do you ever have trouble finding balance between those?
Sometimes one can get so busy doing God stuff that one can miss God in it all. Sadly, this happens to me sometimes so I have to find a balance in coming back to God's throne and renew that personal relationship that God desires to have with all of us...
7. How is what you do "creative"? Do you see it as "art"?
I know that what I do takes a bit of creativity, but on a normal day, I don't really have time to think about it. I just do it.
8. What inspires you?
People who are on fire for God. God's miracles! Encouraging notes when I feel like giving up. Testimonies of people who find Christ in strange places. Stuff like that.
9. Is there an artistic accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
My first book was definitely a big (and unexpected accomplishment). It has been a great experience!
10. What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
I love to see people's lives changed... obviously. I think I already said that?
11. What is most challenging about what you do?
Sometimes it feels as though the world is overcome with sin. Sometimes it seems like what God says is possible is impossible. Yet, God always comes through...
12. Share some of your philosophy about creativity.
I think creativity is something that everyone has to some degree or another. God is a creative being and I think he puts that trait in us - as we are created in his image. As we draw closer to Christ, I believe that we become more creative as individuals because when we hang out with our creator, we start doing stuff we were created to do.
13. If there were no barriers (money/time restraints, location, etc.),what would you love to create?
I would love to create Christian TV to reach more people for Christ. Although Christian programming is getting better, I still find it lacking and I would love to create real innovative material to reach non Christians in a meaningful and modern way.
14. Who are some of your favorite artists?
In radio - a guy named Mike Rimmer. He has a show called Rimmerama in the UK and I learned a lot about interviewing bands by listening to him.
In evangelism- Luis Palau is definitely a hero of faith to me. He has dedicated his life to share the gospel with millions in a clear and relevant way.
In music- my friends, thebandwithnoname. They have found a way to share their faith in a no-compromise kind of way in public schools and still have some of the coolest music on earth!
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Be led by God. Jump first, think later.
16. Is there a verse or quote that inspires you?
2 Chron. 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
17. What is your next "Art Project?
I am currently writing a new book, but I can't say much about it right now. All I can say is that Amy and I have been through a lot and we both have much to say about it.
18. How can we pray for you?
Pray that God continues to use me and my ministry -Faith 2 Faith- to reach thousands of young people for Christ!
~ Tom "the Bomb" Miyashiro
http://f2fmi.org/
http://thelifecrew.com/
http://www.schizophrenicbook.com/
1. Who are you and what is your "art"?
Tom "the Bomb" Miyashiro; Author, Radio Personality, Evangelist
2. How long have you been doing what you do? How did you get started?
I went into ministry the same year I got saved... when I was 16, which was nearly 10 years ago!! I went into radio also at 16. I wrote the book by accident... I sent my manuscript to a publisher for feedback just to see if it was any good and ended up with a book deal!
3. How does your art fit into your schedule? When, where do you get it done?
I have been in full time ministry since January of this year. Before then, I spent all my spare time developing my radio program, Real Life Radio. I wrote the bulk of my first book on the plane ride home when we came back to America!!
4. How and where does God fit into your "art"?
God is at the center of all I do. I love to share the gospel with people that don't know Christ using any means, which includes all my talents and skills.
5. Why do you love what you do?
I love sharing the gospel because there is no better thing in life then to know that you have changed someone's forever. I love radio because I love talking and I love entertaining - I have been doing that my whole life! I also find that radio is a great way to proclaim Christ. I love writing because it is like leaving a legacy. When you publish something, it has the potential to outlive you. Writing is better than speaking because you have to spend more time thinking about how you want to communicate something in a way everyone can understand.
6. Do you see your art as being mainly for you, for others, or for God?
I think the cool thing about what I do is that it fills all three needs equally. By doing what God has called me to do, I get to do what I love, which serves others and meets their need, whilst obeying God! What a blessing!!
Do you ever have trouble finding balance between those?
Sometimes one can get so busy doing God stuff that one can miss God in it all. Sadly, this happens to me sometimes so I have to find a balance in coming back to God's throne and renew that personal relationship that God desires to have with all of us...
7. How is what you do "creative"? Do you see it as "art"?
I know that what I do takes a bit of creativity, but on a normal day, I don't really have time to think about it. I just do it.
8. What inspires you?
People who are on fire for God. God's miracles! Encouraging notes when I feel like giving up. Testimonies of people who find Christ in strange places. Stuff like that.
9. Is there an artistic accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
My first book was definitely a big (and unexpected accomplishment). It has been a great experience!
10. What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
I love to see people's lives changed... obviously. I think I already said that?
11. What is most challenging about what you do?
Sometimes it feels as though the world is overcome with sin. Sometimes it seems like what God says is possible is impossible. Yet, God always comes through...
12. Share some of your philosophy about creativity.
I think creativity is something that everyone has to some degree or another. God is a creative being and I think he puts that trait in us - as we are created in his image. As we draw closer to Christ, I believe that we become more creative as individuals because when we hang out with our creator, we start doing stuff we were created to do.
13. If there were no barriers (money/time restraints, location, etc.),what would you love to create?
I would love to create Christian TV to reach more people for Christ. Although Christian programming is getting better, I still find it lacking and I would love to create real innovative material to reach non Christians in a meaningful and modern way.
14. Who are some of your favorite artists?
In radio - a guy named Mike Rimmer. He has a show called Rimmerama in the UK and I learned a lot about interviewing bands by listening to him.
In evangelism- Luis Palau is definitely a hero of faith to me. He has dedicated his life to share the gospel with millions in a clear and relevant way.
In music- my friends, thebandwithnoname. They have found a way to share their faith in a no-compromise kind of way in public schools and still have some of the coolest music on earth!
15. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Be led by God. Jump first, think later.
16. Is there a verse or quote that inspires you?
2 Chron. 7:14 If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
17. What is your next "Art Project?
I am currently writing a new book, but I can't say much about it right now. All I can say is that Amy and I have been through a lot and we both have much to say about it.
18. How can we pray for you?
Pray that God continues to use me and my ministry -Faith 2 Faith- to reach thousands of young people for Christ!
~ Tom "the Bomb" Miyashiro
Monday, August 13, 2007
Absolutes and Art
The interviews will continue!!! Soon!!! Every now and then, I may post some of my own thoughts. Recently I have been thinking about absolutes in art. Everything is NOT relative. Is beauty really in the eye of the beholder? I am going to listen to a podcast from apologetics.com about this subject but I wanted what to hear you guys thought first.
So, what are your thoughts?
Magically yours,
Zach Ivins
My NEW website!!!
www.zachivins.com
(That is a shameless plug.)
So, what are your thoughts?
Magically yours,
Zach Ivins
My NEW website!!!
www.zachivins.com
(That is a shameless plug.)
Saturday, June 23, 2007
An Interview with Zach Ivins
It was an absolute delight getting to know Zach Ivins a little better. Zach is 14 years old, a home schooler and a member of our church. If you've seen his magic shows, you might know him as The Great Zacchini. After this interview, he'll be taking over as host of this blog- interviewing various creative people in our church. I know you'll enjoy reading his answers to my interview questions! Get ready to be amazed and inspired. Please read to the end.
1. Who are you and what is your "art"?
I am Zach Ivins and I am an artist. My art form is performing on stage, My specialty is performing magic.
2. How long have you been doing what you do? How did you get started?
I saw my first Magician when I was four years old and I don't remember seeing him. It's true, I don't remember my first experience with magic. The Magician (named Billy Riggs) is a Christian magician who performed at some of the local churches in the area. Although I don't remember seeing him I have a video of him performing. My journey in magic started before I can remember, I can't remember not having magic in my life.
3. How does your art fit into your schedule? When, where do you get it done?
Magic is the main thing in my life. (Beside Jesus, my Family and the Church.) I have acted a few times, (most recently in the Forgiven play.) but Magic is the by far the main thing I do. Because my art is my business, I am constantly practicing for my next show. I am also always thinking of new ideas for routines or shows. I get it done whenever, and wherever I can.
4. Why do you love what you do?
I love showing people that the impossible is possible. I love making people laugh. I love telling a story. I love making people think. But why? Why do I love to do these things? I have no idea. It must be because God gave me these desires. I think God gave me a little bit of himself that makes me love what I love.
5. Do you see your art as being mainly for you, for others, or for God? Do you ever have trouble finding balance between those?
Truthfully, I think I do magic for myself. However, Magic has to have an audience. I love being around people. Fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ in particular. But I am supposed to do everything for the glory of God alone. (Soli Deo Gloria) I think I do magic for everyone.
6. How is what you do "creative"? Do you see it as "art"?
Magic, and any art is just as creative as you make it. I am a very creative person. I enjoy brainstorming and putting my ideas into practice. In magic I have to come up with plots and stories. Magic is a visual art so the magic must be appealing to the eyes, But magic is almost entirely ineffective without sound. Whether music or speech. Yet magic is most affective when it is personal. So your sense of touch is very important. It's coming up with creative ways of putting all three together in a coherent fashion. Magic is a science. Magic is an art. Or art is magic. I think true, pure art is magic. Artists are just finding, revealing the magic in different ways. That is the real magic.
7. What inspires you?
Everything inspires me. God inspires me. My family inspires me. Music inspires. Movies inspire. Blogs inspire. Other magicians inspire. Actors inspire. Speakers inspire. Musicians inspire. Quotes inspire. Living inspires. Christians inspire. Fighting the Good Fight of Faith inspires. Nature inspires. Young people inspire. Children inspire. Books inspire. Photography inspires. People inspire me.
8. Is there an artistic accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
This is the hardest Question so far. I am not a very prideful person so this is hard. I am proud that I came in first in a youth magic competition in Boston. I am proud of the library show I am performing this summer. I am proud of a performance I did for the Christ Lutheran Church coffeehouse talent show. I think I am normally most proud of the last show I did but some performances outshine others. I am proud of performing my first gig for the third time this year. I am proud of performing a the Groton Public Library twice, soon to be three times. Maybe this isn't so hard.
9. What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
Laughter. Smiles. The look of shock on peoples' faces. The rush that for a short amount of time people around me are happy and so am I. That everything is okay.
10. What is most challenging about what you do?
Practicing. The preparation from having the idea complete and making it super smooth.
11. Share some of your philosophy about creativity.
I think creativity is very important! I need to start carrying a notebook in my pocket so whenever I have an idea I can write it down. Don't throw away an idea just because you don't think it is a good idea. Creativity is something near and dear to my heart. And close to God's heart. The first thing God did was create. (Genesis 1:1) Orson Welles said, "The absence of limitations is the enemy of art." So as you are being creative it is important to have an idea about what you are looking for. Or the kind of idea. For example if you like taking photos of landscape, can't travel outside of twenty miles of your house, and have to take the photos during the day. Why are you thinking of taking pictures of Eskimos ice fishing? A little extreme but you get the point. Having limitations helps me. William James said, "Genius means little more than the faculty of perceiving in an unhabitual way." Creativity is just thinking outside the box. If you are creative you are a genius. I am always working on new stuff. Creativity is forced. Taking five minutes just to come up with ideas can be one of the best things you can do. The more ideas you have, the more options you have for your next piece of art.
12. If there were no barriers (money/time restraints, location, etc.),what would you love to create?
I would have my own theater and stage show. I would bring in other acts to perform. My show would have a Christmas show and I would always be adding new routines to the show. I would create a show that was true art. I would give people the emotion of wonder. I would create a show that God would be proud of. I would create a show that people could see over and over again. Never getting bored and never seeing anything but the magic. I would create a show that embodied who I am. Ben Okri said, "Magic becomes art when it has nothing to hide." I would create a show that had nothing to hide.
13. Who are some of your favorite artists?
Young David Copperfield, Weird Al Yankovic, Tim Ellis, Sue Anne Webster, Andy Dallas, Switchfoot, Bill Watterson, Charles Schulz, Gary Larson, Johnny Hart, Brant Parker, Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, J.K.Rowling, Eoin Colfer, Garth Nix, The Waifs, Mark Schulz, David Garrity, Maeve, Walt Disney, C. S. Lewis, Jim Henson, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Brad Paisley, Robert E. Lee, Kevin Johnson, MercyMe, George Lucas, Tom Hanks, And many, many others. My absolute favorite artist is God! God is the best artist ever!
14. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Be yourself. Tell a story. Tell your story. Always do what you do for God. Love what you do. Your journey starts with one step and you probably have already taken it. Find your magic and give it to the world.
15. Is there a verse or quote that inspires you?
"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." ~Walt Disney
"Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not actrightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have thosebecause we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence,then, is not an act but a habit." ~ Aristotle
1. Who are you and what is your "art"?
I am Zach Ivins and I am an artist. My art form is performing on stage, My specialty is performing magic.
2. How long have you been doing what you do? How did you get started?
I saw my first Magician when I was four years old and I don't remember seeing him. It's true, I don't remember my first experience with magic. The Magician (named Billy Riggs) is a Christian magician who performed at some of the local churches in the area. Although I don't remember seeing him I have a video of him performing. My journey in magic started before I can remember, I can't remember not having magic in my life.
3. How does your art fit into your schedule? When, where do you get it done?
Magic is the main thing in my life. (Beside Jesus, my Family and the Church.) I have acted a few times, (most recently in the Forgiven play.) but Magic is the by far the main thing I do. Because my art is my business, I am constantly practicing for my next show. I am also always thinking of new ideas for routines or shows. I get it done whenever, and wherever I can.
4. Why do you love what you do?
I love showing people that the impossible is possible. I love making people laugh. I love telling a story. I love making people think. But why? Why do I love to do these things? I have no idea. It must be because God gave me these desires. I think God gave me a little bit of himself that makes me love what I love.
5. Do you see your art as being mainly for you, for others, or for God? Do you ever have trouble finding balance between those?
Truthfully, I think I do magic for myself. However, Magic has to have an audience. I love being around people. Fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ in particular. But I am supposed to do everything for the glory of God alone. (Soli Deo Gloria) I think I do magic for everyone.
6. How is what you do "creative"? Do you see it as "art"?
Magic, and any art is just as creative as you make it. I am a very creative person. I enjoy brainstorming and putting my ideas into practice. In magic I have to come up with plots and stories. Magic is a visual art so the magic must be appealing to the eyes, But magic is almost entirely ineffective without sound. Whether music or speech. Yet magic is most affective when it is personal. So your sense of touch is very important. It's coming up with creative ways of putting all three together in a coherent fashion. Magic is a science. Magic is an art. Or art is magic. I think true, pure art is magic. Artists are just finding, revealing the magic in different ways. That is the real magic.
7. What inspires you?
Everything inspires me. God inspires me. My family inspires me. Music inspires. Movies inspire. Blogs inspire. Other magicians inspire. Actors inspire. Speakers inspire. Musicians inspire. Quotes inspire. Living inspires. Christians inspire. Fighting the Good Fight of Faith inspires. Nature inspires. Young people inspire. Children inspire. Books inspire. Photography inspires. People inspire me.
8. Is there an artistic accomplishment you are particularly proud of?
This is the hardest Question so far. I am not a very prideful person so this is hard. I am proud that I came in first in a youth magic competition in Boston. I am proud of the library show I am performing this summer. I am proud of a performance I did for the Christ Lutheran Church coffeehouse talent show. I think I am normally most proud of the last show I did but some performances outshine others. I am proud of performing my first gig for the third time this year. I am proud of performing a the Groton Public Library twice, soon to be three times. Maybe this isn't so hard.
9. What do you find most rewarding about what you do?
Laughter. Smiles. The look of shock on peoples' faces. The rush that for a short amount of time people around me are happy and so am I. That everything is okay.
10. What is most challenging about what you do?
Practicing. The preparation from having the idea complete and making it super smooth.
11. Share some of your philosophy about creativity.
I think creativity is very important! I need to start carrying a notebook in my pocket so whenever I have an idea I can write it down. Don't throw away an idea just because you don't think it is a good idea. Creativity is something near and dear to my heart. And close to God's heart. The first thing God did was create. (Genesis 1:1) Orson Welles said, "The absence of limitations is the enemy of art." So as you are being creative it is important to have an idea about what you are looking for. Or the kind of idea. For example if you like taking photos of landscape, can't travel outside of twenty miles of your house, and have to take the photos during the day. Why are you thinking of taking pictures of Eskimos ice fishing? A little extreme but you get the point. Having limitations helps me. William James said, "Genius means little more than the faculty of perceiving in an unhabitual way." Creativity is just thinking outside the box. If you are creative you are a genius. I am always working on new stuff. Creativity is forced. Taking five minutes just to come up with ideas can be one of the best things you can do. The more ideas you have, the more options you have for your next piece of art.
12. If there were no barriers (money/time restraints, location, etc.),what would you love to create?
I would have my own theater and stage show. I would bring in other acts to perform. My show would have a Christmas show and I would always be adding new routines to the show. I would create a show that was true art. I would give people the emotion of wonder. I would create a show that God would be proud of. I would create a show that people could see over and over again. Never getting bored and never seeing anything but the magic. I would create a show that embodied who I am. Ben Okri said, "Magic becomes art when it has nothing to hide." I would create a show that had nothing to hide.
13. Who are some of your favorite artists?
Young David Copperfield, Weird Al Yankovic, Tim Ellis, Sue Anne Webster, Andy Dallas, Switchfoot, Bill Watterson, Charles Schulz, Gary Larson, Johnny Hart, Brant Parker, Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, J.K.Rowling, Eoin Colfer, Garth Nix, The Waifs, Mark Schulz, David Garrity, Maeve, Walt Disney, C. S. Lewis, Jim Henson, Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Brad Paisley, Robert E. Lee, Kevin Johnson, MercyMe, George Lucas, Tom Hanks, And many, many others. My absolute favorite artist is God! God is the best artist ever!
14. Do you have any advice for aspiring artists?
Be yourself. Tell a story. Tell your story. Always do what you do for God. Love what you do. Your journey starts with one step and you probably have already taken it. Find your magic and give it to the world.
15. Is there a verse or quote that inspires you?
"All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." ~Walt Disney
"Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not actrightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have thosebecause we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence,then, is not an act but a habit." ~ Aristotle
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Test Post
Janet's latest blog idea. Here we go. Hoping this will be a place where young Zach Ivins will interview the creative peeps of Calvary Chapel. This is Your blog, God. If You like the idea, help it happen:)
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