This week I have had the great fortune of coming across two different forms of artistic expression that exhibit the same subject in very different ways. The subject is religion, of course. I want to use this blog to introduce both of the artists I came across. Later, I will write two feature articles on them, for your reading pleasure.
In my life I have had some unique experiences with religion. I, like many others, have struggled with my "religious identity," or lack there of. Last weekend when I was getting my hair cut, Stacy, the hairdresser, was sharing her philosophy on religion. She said that religion, despite how controversial it is in conversation, has been the showcase for centuries of art. Artists from every era have used religion in their work. Some of the most renowned art pieces are based on religion, such as, The Last Supper.
This week, I just happened to be bombarded by two totally different religious messages in a 24 hour period. I had been looking for some good artists to profile for my internship blog, and after I had these two different artists cross my path, I came up with this. 1A Expression, or 1st Amendment Expression. That's what I'm calling this series of artist's profiles. The 1st Amendment is the cornerstone for artists, media, and millions of religious followers. It is the, in short, freedom of the press, freedom of speech, and freedom of religion, all in one amendment. Our right to expression has been both valued and demonstrated since the Constitution was drafted. So, allow me to take you on a journey through one of our country's core values, freedom of expression.
First, a musical artist who found God in some of the darkest moments of his life. He uses his music to praise and to spread the joy and word of his savior.
Next I'll introduce to a woman who has had her share of trials, and in the dark she has found that religion is sometimes...contradictory. She has used religion as a basis for her current works of art--a line she calls "Heresy."