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Athentikos, Art and the Presence of Jesus

Athentikos, Art and the Presence of Jesus

For most of my life, I have underestimated the power of the arts. I have had the privilege of taking colors, music, and words for granted. I have been ignorant to the influence they have had on me and the influence they have throughout all of humanity. However, one of the things that Athentikos has offered me is a renewed understanding of art. The deeper I dive into myself, the more I understand the profundity of art (and I have Athentikos to thank for nudging me in this direction).
The better I know myseIf, the more I understand how much I owe to writing. I have experienced so much growth and peace through my journals. In fact, I would even say that they have been a catalyst in my relationship with Christ. It’s helped me understand God, myself, and my place within His movement. It’s shown me another side to Him, for I now understand how much God cares about beauty. Why else would there be so many different kinds of flowers? Or change of color in the sky? Art is a way we can embody Him, and art is one step further into the presence of Jesus.
Not only has Athentikos exemplified the power of art to me, but they have also given me a chance to put this revelation into practice: as an Artist in Residence, I have an opportunity to share this beauty and transformation with others. As an Artist in Residence, I am hosting weekly art clubs (with the help of Kathlyn) for various groups from January-May 2020. How lucky am I??? I hope to accompany others in their relationship with Jesus through the arts. I hope to make His love known through His beauty. It is such a privilege to be able to praise Him with colors! 
– Elianah, ART TERM Intern