Canton First Friends Encourages the Arts
What began eight years ago as an Art Show to encourage artists within the church, expanded this year into two events: an Art Show and an Arts Conference.It began with the desire to use God-given artistic talents to worship God. Over eight years ago, a group of artists began meeting monthly to encourage each other in their art. The informal group prayerfully defined their purpose as follows: The arts committee embraces all forms of art, seeking to encourage artists as they develop their skills while celebrating the gifts God has given.
These meetings grew into the annual Art Show at Canton Friends, under the coordination of Phil and Londa DiSabatino. In June, this year's Art Show brought together 63 artists displaying 93 items including paintings, sculptures, photographs, textiles, drawings, and carvings.
On July 19th and 20th, the Arts Committee added a new dimension to their ministry with an Art Festival. The Conference brought together artists representing media as diverse as oil painting, dance, creative writing, photography, and hand drumming.Friday night's kickoff worship performance was structured as an uninterrupted flow from the Temple's Outer Court, through the Inner Court, and finally the Holy of Holies. Post-concert comments were universally positive. All agreed that the worship was excellent and Spirit led, and a number of attendees showed up and registered for Saturday's conference to keep the inspiration flowing.
On Saturday, 13 presenters, all professionals and most of whom are members of the First Friends family, led 15 workshops and conducted three energetic panel discussions to the delight of 61 registered participants.The three whole group sessions focused on teaching three steps of the artist's Christian walk through with same temple-model used the night before at the concert. Pastor Stan Hinshaw and Living Fountain Dance Company Director Kimberly Payne led the teaching. Worshipful singing concluded the conference.
One participant commented, "I'm really glad First Friends offered this conference. I was able to invite a friend whose interest is art but has never seen this church. I was also able to try something [an art medium] I had never done before. It was great!"
Thanks to Pastor Phil DiSabatino whose leadership made this conference possible, his wife Londa for coordinating the Art Show, and thanks to all who offered their gifts and talents to make both events a success.
Information taken from the Canton First Friends Newsletter,
Article written by Leslie Nielsen, 2004 Arts Conference Director.
World Outreach Center (EFC-ER Office) | 1-800-334-8863 | 330-493-1660 | Fax: 330-493-0852 | 5350 Broadmoor Cir. NW Canton, OH 44709
