Introduction
- As part of a prophetic conference hosted by Kathleen de la Hunt and The Oasis Church, I had the privilege of coordinating and leading art workshops at The Oasis Church in Howick. I’ll unpack as an example one of these workshops from 2013. The workshop, titled “Prophetic Art,” was a significant event that welcomed both artists and non-artists alike. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to express what God was saying to and through them using various creative mediums such as drawing, painting, collage, and photography/digital art.
- But it didn’t end there—this workshop was just the beginning! It aimed to release and train people in hearing God’s voice, not only for their own healing but also for encouraging others on their journey toward wholeness and freedom from their own hurts.
Background
- The inspiration behind the workshop stemmed from hearing people’s stories about how they felt a sense of release and freedom as they expressed themselves through art. Recognizing the profound impact that creative expression can have, I aimed to offer a course on creativity to help participants develop their imagination and explore various forms of expression. This, in turn, could lead to innovative solutions and ideas, fostering personal growth and healing.
- The inspiration behind the workshop stemmed from hearing people’s stories about how they felt a sense of release and freedom as they expressed themselves through art. Recognizing the profound impact that creative expression can have, I aimed to offer a course on creativity to help participants develop their imagination and explore various forms of expression. This, in turn, could lead to innovative solutions and ideas, fostering personal growth and healing.
- To achieve this, I planned a course that included many practical exercises designed to unlock the candidates’ creative flow. Alongside these hands-on activities, I incorporated a bit of theory on the elements of art, such as form, line, shapes, tone, and shading, to name a few. This combination of practice and theory aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of artistic expression.
- Ultimately, the teaching was meant to unlock understanding and hearts, enabling participants to use artistic expression and key elements to communicate what God was saying to them individually and, possibly, to others. The act of engaging in the process itself was meant to be freeing and inspirational.
Example Activity: Expressive Collage Creation
One of the activities we conducted during the workshop was creating expressive collages. Here’s how it went:
Materials Needed:
- Magazines, newspapers, and printed images
- Scissors
- Glue sticks
- Large sheets of paper or canvas
- Markers and colored pencils
Steps:
- Introduction: I began by explaining the purpose of the activity, which was to use collage as a medium to express what participants felt God was saying to them.
- Selection: Participants were asked to browse through the magazines and newspapers to find images, words, and colors that resonated with them or caught their attention.
- Cutting and Arranging: They then cut out these elements and started arranging them on their paper or canvas, experimenting with different layouts and combinations.
- Creation: Once they were satisfied with their arrangement, they glued the pieces down. They could also add personal touches using markers and colored pencils to enhance their collages.
- Reflection: After completing their collages, participants were encouraged to reflect on their work and share their thoughts and feelings with the group. This step was crucial for understanding the deeper messages and insights that emerged through their creative process.
This activity was designed to be both freeing and inspirational, allowing participants to tap into their creativity and hear God’s voice in a unique and personal way.
The Event
Setting the Scene
- The workshop took place in a warm and inviting space at The Oasis Church in Howick. The room was filled with natural light, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere. Tables were arranged in a semi-circle to encourage interaction and collaboration among the participants. Each table was equipped with a variety of art supplies, including paints, brushes, markers, colored pencils, magazines, and large sheets of paper.
- Soft background music played, setting a peaceful tone and helping participants feel relaxed and open to the creative process. Inspirational quotes and scriptures were displayed around the room, serving as gentle reminders of the workshop’s purpose and encouraging participants to connect with their inner selves and with God.
- The overall vibe was one of anticipation and excitement, as participants eagerly awaited the start of the workshop. The combination of thoughtful setup and a welcoming environment helped create a space where everyone felt comfortable to explore their creativity and express themselves freely.
Expressive Collage Creation:
- Materials Needed: Magazines, newspapers, printed images, scissors, glue sticks, large sheets of paper or canvas, markers, and colored pencils.
- Steps: Introduction, selection, cutting and arranging, creation, and reflection.
- Purpose: To use collage as a medium to express what participants felt God was saying to them.
Impact
The impact of the workshop was profound and multifaceted. Here are some key areas where it made a significant difference:
Personal Growth and Healing
Many participants reported experiencing a deep sense of personal growth and healing. Engaging in the creative process allowed them to explore and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. This expression often led to breakthroughs in understanding and processing their feelings, contributing to their overall well-being.
Enhanced Creativity
The practical exercises and theoretical lessons helped participants unlock their creative potential. They learned new techniques and gained confidence in their artistic abilities, which they could apply in various aspects of their lives. This newfound creativity often translated into innovative solutions and ideas in both personal and professional contexts.
Spiritual Connection
The workshop facilitated a deeper spiritual connection for many attendees. By using art as a medium to hear and communicate God’s voice, participants felt more attuned to their spiritual journey. This connection provided them with guidance, encouragement, and a sense of purpose.
Community Building
The workshop fostered a sense of community among the participants. Sharing their creative works and personal stories helped build strong bonds and mutual support. This sense of community extended beyond the workshop, with many participants continuing to stay in touch and support each other in their creative and spiritual journeys.
Testimonials
Here are a few quotes from participants that highlight the workshop’s impact:
- “This workshop was a turning point for me. It helped me unlock my creativity and connect with God in a way I never thought possible.”
- “I felt a sense of freedom and healing as I expressed myself through art. It was truly a transformative experience.”
- “The community we built during the workshop has been a source of ongoing support and inspiration. I’m so grateful for this experience.”
Conclusion
- Reflecting on the 2013 art workshop at The Oasis Church in Howick, it’s clear that the event was a remarkable journey of creativity, healing, and spiritual growth. The workshop provided a unique space for both artists and non-artists to explore their creative potential and connect with God in a deeply personal way. Through practical exercises and theoretical lessons, participants unlocked their creative flow and learned to use art as a medium for expression and communication.
- The impact of the workshop was profound, fostering personal growth, enhanced creativity, and a stronger spiritual connection. It also built a supportive community that extended beyond the event, with participants continuing to encourage and inspire each other on their journeys toward wholeness and freedom.
- Looking back, the workshop was not just an event but a catalyst for transformation. It highlighted the power of art to heal, inspire, and connect us to something greater than ourselves. As we move forward, the lessons learned and the connections made during this workshop will continue to influence and shape our creative and spiritual paths.
Follow us here for more examples and art lessons or exercises focussed on unlocking our creative gifting to as to both hear God and receive healing from Him!