• Recognizing God’s Voice in Your Art

    Recognizing God’s Voice in Your Art

    ,

    ISSUE #018

    You ever have one of those moments in the studio where something just clicks—where your hands are moving, the paint is flowing, and suddenly you realize you’re not just making art… you’re being led? That still small voice isn’t just for prayer closets or quiet time. It shows up right there in the swirl of color, the rhythm of your process, and the ideas that come out of nowhere yet land with eternal purpose. This week, we’re diving into what it means to recognize God’s voice in the midst of your creativity—and how to cultivate a life that’s tuned in and ready to respond.

    Isaiah 30:21 reminds us, “Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go,’ whether to the right or to the left.” When you embrace that truth as an artist, everything changes. You stop striving, start listening, and find a flow that’s not just beautiful—it’s sacred. Whether you’re picking up the brush for the first time in a while or you’re in the thick of creating something new, I hope this issue encourages you to lean in and let God lead the way.

    May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    PS – If you’re ready to go deeper in hearing God’s voice—not just in your art, but in every part of your life—I want to personally invite you to start the Foundations Course. This is where I teach the core principles that help Christian artists renew their minds, overcome fear, clarify God’s vision for their life and confidently walk in alignment with God’s voice and purpose. 

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

    Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

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    “Your own ears will hear him. Right behind you a voice will say, ‘This is the way you should go.’” – Isaiah 30:21 (NLT)

    God doesn’t just speak to pastors and prophets—He speaks to artists, too. And more often than not, He speaks in the process. That moment when you’re deciding on a color palette or composition and a sudden clarity washes over you? That can be Him. Learning to recognize God’s voice in your creative flow starts by expecting that He wants to speak.

    Prayer
    Lord, I want to hear Your voice clearly as I create. Quiet the noise, calm my fears, and tune my heart to Yours. Help me recognize Your guidance in every brushstroke, sketch line, and moment of inspiration. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step: Before your next creative session, pause and ask the Holy Spirit, “What do You want to express through me today?” Write it down. Trust it. Create from it.

    CLARIFY

    If God really is speaking, the question becomes: are you making space to listen? The creative life is full of motion—ideas, deadlines, distractions—but clarity comes when we slow down enough to ask, “Lord, what are You saying to me this week about my art, my goals, and my calling?” The more you practice that alignment, the more confident you’ll become in your direction.

    Whether you’re planning a new collection or wondering which opportunities to pursue, don’t just look at the numbers or what’s popular—ask God. He loves to partner with you.

    Reflection Prompt: Where in your creative life do you need clearer direction this week?

    Action Step: Write down 3 current goals. Next to each, ask: “Did God lead me here, or am I just filling space?” Then, revise your priorities to reflect what feels truly Spirit-led.

    CREATE

    You don’t need to wait for a booming voice from heaven to know that God’s in your studio. Often, His presence shows up in peace. In joy. In the little nudges that whisper, “Try this.” Maybe it’s layering in a new texture, experimenting with color, or revisiting an old sketch with new eyes. That’s where creativity becomes collaboration.

    And here’s the thing—when you trust that flow, you don’t just make better art… you make art with a message. Whether it’s subtle or bold, your creative offering becomes a seed that the Holy Spirit can breathe on.

    Studio Action Step: Choose one piece of art in progress. Ask God what message or emotion He wants to convey through it. Then finish it, not from pressure, but from presence.

    CULTIVATE

    Recognizing God’s voice doesn’t stop in the studio—it moves through your audience as well. When your art speaks to someone’s heart, you’re witnessing a divine echo. That’s why sharing your work matters. You never know who’s been waiting for what only your voice can release.

    Ana Quintana’s journey is proof that showing up daily, building community, and staying aligned with God can open unexpected doors—like magazine features and gallery opportunities that started with a simple “yes.” Be bold in showing your work. Be faithful in connecting.

    Outreach Action Step: Choose one recent piece that carries a story. Share that story in a social media post or email this week, highlighting how God led you in the process. Ask your audience how it speaks to them.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Meta Business Suite is your one-stop command center for managing Instagram and Facebook. You can schedule content, reply to messages, and most importantly—analyze what’s actually working.

    Click on the Insights tab this week and take note of your top 3 performing posts from the last month. Were they personal? Process-driven? Studio shots? Use that insight to shape your future posts and align more deeply with your audience.

    Use Meta Business Suite

    Action Step: Jot down your top 3 posts. What themes or visuals stood out? What responses did you get? Ask yourself, “What felt authentic and aligned with my message?”

    INSPIRE

    Trashing Trash – Turning Sea Debris into Art That Educates

    This week’s story comes from a beautiful partnership between artists and National Parks educators. Instead of tossing collected marine litter like water bottles and fishing nets, artists turned it into sculptures that now grace coastal trails. The installations don’t just spark curiosity—they inspire action.

    As Kingdom creatives, this is our reminder: your art can make change. You can reflect beauty and purpose even from broken pieces.

    Read the Full Story

    LISTEN / WATCH

    LISTEN NOW

    Have you ever wondered if the inspiration you feel while creating could actually be God speaking to you? What if your art isn’t just a product of your imagination but a divine invitation into deeper relationship and purpose?

    In this episode of the Thriving Christian Artist podcast, How to Hear God’s Voice When You Create, we explore practical and spiritual ways to recognize and respond to God’s whispers during your creative process.

    Drawing from Isaiah 30:21, we talk about:

    • How to cultivate a quiet, sacred space to hear God clearly
    • Journaling, sketching, and reflection practices to amplify your spiritual sensitivity
    • Overcoming fear and stepping out in faith to release your work boldly
    • Trusting that God will use your art to speak to others in ways you could never imagine

    Whether you’re a painter, writer, musician, or any kind of maker, this episode will inspire you to embrace your creativity as a sacred dialogue with the Lord.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Ana Quintana

    Fluid Art, Divine Flow, and a Bold Leap into Calling
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Ana Quintana, art is more than a creative pursuit—it’s a bold surrender to God’s timing, movement, and unexpected surprises. After a thriving career in the tech industry and a lifetime of appreciation for beauty, Ana followed a divine nudge to fully embrace her calling as an artist—and she hasn’t looked back.

    Ana is a fluid acrylic artist who creates expressive works using her hands, intuition, and a willingness to let go of control.

    “I don’t use brushes—just my hands and a desire to let the paint speak,” she says. “Each painting is a dance between intention and surrender, like life itself.”

    She draws inspiration from the natural world, spiritual themes, and the vibrant landscapes of the American Southwest and Mountain West. Her pieces feature rich pigments, shimmering mica, and mesmerizing textures that pull the viewer into a visual and emotional journey.

    “Color is my creative language,” Ana shares. “Each painting is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends chemistry, passion, and divine influence.”

    Ana’s spiritual and artistic breakthrough came through the Foundations Course.

    “Week 7 was a game-changer. I realized I had been defining success by sales, but God showed me that true success is obedience, joy, and purpose. That shift freed me.”

    And God has been opening doors. One of Ana’s church elders introduced her to a local publisher, which led to a magazine cover feature and a commission from a new collector. “None of that would’ve happened without being planted in my church community,” she reflects. Another divine connection came through a friend’s request for a Northern Lights-inspired series—a project that challenged Ana’s approach but led to stunning results and a reconnection in faith and friendship.

    Ana’s creative process is steeped in daily inspiration and spiritual sensitivity. She fills her studio with printed quotes, Scriptures, and podcast insights from The Thriving Christian Artist, and seeks the Holy Spirit’s guidance before beginning each series.

    “I’m always wondering, ‘What will He inspire me to create next?’”

    Her advice to fellow creatives is rooted in faith and diligence:
    🎨 “Be patient and stay encouraged. Network, take opportunities seriously, and do something every day to move forward in your calling. God blesses what you put your hands to—so make space for Him to move.”

    Today, Ana’s work is featured in galleries in Denver and Santa Fe, and she’s expanding her reach through juried exhibitions via platforms like CaFE.org. Her steady faith, vibrant voice, and daily obedience are turning her creative calling into a growing movement of color, energy, and worship.

    Ana Quintana is living proof that when you embrace the process, trust the timing, and surrender the outcome, God will do more than you ever imagined—one fluid masterpiece at a time.

    Ana Quintana_Fluid Art_Ice & Snow – No. 1 – 24 x 24
    Ana Quintana_Southwest Splendor_24 x 24
    Ana Quintana_Planetary Windstorm_24 x 24

    Apply to Be a Featured Artist

    Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? We love sharing the work from our friends around the world who create unique, beautiful and inspired art, regardless of creative medium. And just a reminder, your work does NOT have to be overtly faith-based to be considered. Interested? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

    Resources for Christian Artists

    If you’re ready to grow as an artist in your faith, art and even business, then check out these affordable resources for artists just like you.

  • Practical Steps to Hearing God’s Voice for Artists

    Practical Steps to Hearing God’s Voice for Artists

    ,

    ISSUE #017

    Have you ever felt like you were straining to hear God’s voice in the middle of your day-to-day life? Maybe in the chaos of emails, family needs, art deadlines, and general busyness, you’re wondering, “Is God even speaking?” Let me encourage you—He is. And not only is He speaking, He wants you to recognize His voice with clarity and confidence. That’s not a far-off ideal for the spiritually elite—it’s a promise straight from Jesus’ own words in John 10:27: “My sheep hear My voice.” Hearing God is not a bonus feature for the Christian life—it’s foundational.

    This week, we’re diving into the spiritual practice of listening. Whether you’re seeking direction in your art, parenting, finances, or spiritual walk, tuning your heart to God’s voice is a game changer. And good news—you don’t have to go to a mountain or monastery to hear Him. It’s about being present, quieting the noise, and creating space for His whispers, even in your studio, your car, or the middle of making dinner. My hope is that this issue encourages you to lean in and cultivate that listening heart today.

    May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    PS – If you’re ready to go deeper in hearing God’s voice—not just in your art, but in every part of your life—I want to personally invite you to start the Foundations Course. This is where I teach the core principles that help Christian artists renew their minds, overcome fear, clarify God’s vision for their life and confidently walk in alignment with God’s voice and purpose.

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

    Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

    CONNECT

    “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”
    —John 10:27 (NKJV)

    Jesus didn’t say some of His sheep hear His voice. He said His sheep do. That includes you, right now, in whatever season you’re in. But hearing isn’t just about our ears—it’s about posture. Are we slowing down? Are we turning down the volume of distraction long enough to recognize His whispers? His voice comes with peace, clarity, and always aligns with His Word. When you create space to listen, you’ll find He’s been speaking all along.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You that You are always speaking and that You’ve given me the ability to hear You. Help me quiet the noise, soften my heart, and tune into the voice of the Good Shepherd. I want to walk in step with You in every area of my life and creativity. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step:
    Set aside 10–15 minutes each morning this week to sit quietly, journal, and ask God one question: “What do You want me to know today?” Then listen. Write what you sense.

    CLARIFY

    Hearing God’s voice starts with intention. That means making space in your schedule and your heart for clarity to flow. Instead of rushing into your day with a to-do list, try starting with a to-be list: “Today I will be available. I will be attentive. I will be open.” God doesn’t compete with chaos. He invites us into alignment so we can receive the guidance we need for the week ahead.

    Take a moment to reflect: What’s one area of your life where you’ve been seeking God’s direction? What would it look like to pause, listen, and allow His voice to guide you there?

    Practical Action Step:
    Write down your top 3 goals for this week. Then pray over them. Ask God to highlight which ones align with His heart—and which ones may need to wait or shift.

    CREATE

    You know those moments when you’re creating and time just slips away? That sense of flow and presence? That’s a prime place for God to speak. Creativity is a sacred portal for connection. As artists, our senses are already tuned to beauty, form, and movement—what if you leaned in a little more this week, not just to express yourself, but to listen?

    Keep your journal nearby while you create. If a Scripture, phrase, or impression comes, pause and write it down. Your art can become a conversation—a visual echo of heaven’s whispers.

    Studio Action Step:
    Next time you’re in the studio, begin your session with a short prayer: “Holy Spirit, speak through my hands today.” Then create with the expectation that He will meet you in the process.

    CULTIVATE

    Hearing God’s voice isn’t just about personal guidance—it’s about releasing life to others. Your art can become a vehicle of encouragement, healing, and clarity for those who encounter it. Whether you share a finished piece, a journal excerpt, or a short reflection, your obedience in listening and creating can spark something profound in someone else.

    Remember, people aren’t just buying art—they’re connecting with the story, spirit, and presence it carries. When your art comes from a listening heart, it carries Kingdom weight.

    Outreach Action Step:
    Choose one piece of art this week and share a short caption or story behind it on social media. End with a question like, “Has God ever spoken to you through creativity?”

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Linktree

    Linktree makes it super easy to direct your audience to all your most important links from your Instagram bio. Instead of picking just one, now you can include your website, email list signup, online store, and even your latest artwork.

    Tool Tip:
    Create a free Linktree account. Add links to:

    • Your website or shop
    • Your Instagram
    • Your email signup page
    • One featured artwork

    Then add that Linktree URL to your IG bio. Simple, clean, and super effective for building connection and increasing engagement.

    INSPIRE

    Reimagining Barn Raising as Creative Community-Building

    I came across a beautiful story about architect and artist Erin Besler, who’s revived the age-old American tradition of barn raising at Art Omi, a sculpture‑and‑architecture park in New York

    Read the story here

    Instead of a traditional barn, Besler designed a timber frame structure that deliberately never becomes a functional building. The goal? To invite people—professionals and newcomers alike—to build together, learn, and be part of the creative process. Over the next few weeks, the project features hands‑on workshops, evening talks, and community‑led construction events before the big barn‑raising day on July 26, 2025.

    What really stood out to me is how art becomes instruction, inclusion, and relationship—all in one project. Besler’s approach shatters the idea that art is only for the elite—it’s an open invitation to join in, contribute, and be seen. Plus, using untreated local wood speaks to sustainability rooted in place. As Christian, Kingdom creatives, we get this: art isn’t just about our individual voice—it’s about building together, stewarding creation, and teaching others the joy of making with their own hands.

    LISTEN

    Episode: How to Listen for God When Life Gets Noisy

    LISTEN NOW

    Ever felt like God’s voice was lost in the shuffle of your everyday life? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the spiritual and practical ways you can position yourself to hear from God—right where you are.

    We’ll uncover some myths around who can hear God and how He speaks, and I’ll walk you through how to create sacred space even in the middle of a noisy world. From journaling impressions to listening during your creative process, this episode will help you identify God’s voice with confidence.

    Key Takeaway:
    Hearing from God is not a rare experience—it’s your Kingdom inheritance. You just need to create space to listen.

    WATCH

    If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to truly hear God’s voice—not audibly, but in the stillness of your heart—this song will take you there. “Voice of God” by Dante Bowe, featuring Steffany Gretzinger and Chandler Moore, is a worshipful meditation on the nearness and beauty of God’s presence.

    From the first note, you’re invited into an atmosphere where Heaven feels close. It’s not just a song—it’s a sacred space. Whether you’re journaling, creating, or simply sitting in silence, this is the perfect anthem to accompany your time with the Lord this week.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Julia Kuklis

    From Despair to Destiny: Painting with Purpose and Power
    Website | Instagram

    For Julia Kuklis, painting is no longer just a creative outlet—it’s a sacred assignment, a lifeline, and a testimony of God’s redeeming power. Her journey into prophetic art began not in a studio, but in a moment of desperation.

    “I cried out to God at 3am, telling Him that if He wanted me to paint, He would have to bring me a mentor—someone who was an artist and loved the Lord.”

    Just two weeks later, Julia discovered the Artist Rise Up workshop and the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program—a divine answer to her prayer.

    “The mentorship broke decades of despair and lies off my life. I went from not knowing what prophetic art was to now serving as the Assistant Prophetic Art Director at my church. My entire life has changed.”

    Julia creates non-representational abstracts using vibrant color, texture, and movement. Her “scratch-through” technique and layered approach give her work a sense of emotional depth and revelation. Whether she’s responding to Scripture, worship, or simply the beauty in nature, every piece is an act of co-creating with the Holy Spirit.

    “Color excites me the most! But even more, I love that the Lord meets me in the process—reminding me of who He is and who I am.”

    She recalls a powerful moment when a young man approached her after she painted during a church service. Her semi-abstract piece deeply resonated with him, and as they talked, he began to cry—feeling seen, uplifted, and ministered to.

    “That’s the beauty of prophetic art,” she says. “Even abstract work can carry a word from God directly to someone’s heart.”

    Julia balances her artistic calling with the demands of homeschooling, often painting in short, focused blocks of time. Whether she has 20 minutes or a couple of hours, she makes space to be present with God, letting the process flow. Some days are less productive, but she’s learned to give herself grace and stay connected by organizing her studio, listening to worship music, or simply observing the beauty around her.

    Her encouragement to other artists?
    🎨 “Don’t let the enemy rob you of your creative birthright. You’re creating for an audience of One—and He delights in you!”

    From juried shows to commissions and church ministry, Julia is seeing God expand her influence, even in a season where she paints part-time. Her obedience, vulnerability, and trust have opened doors for healing, impact, and purpose in ways she never imagined.

    Julia’s life and work are a living testimony: when you surrender your art to God, He doesn’t just restore what’s broken—He releases beauty that touches the world.

    Apply to Be a Featured Artist

    Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? We love sharing the work from our friends around the world who create unique, beautiful and inspired art, regardless of creative medium. And just a reminder, your work does NOT have to be overtly faith-based to be considered. Interested? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

    Resources for Christian Artists

    If you’re ready to grow as an artist in your faith, art and even business, then check out these affordable resources for artists just like you.

  • Breaking Through Creative Roadblocks

    Breaking Through Creative Roadblocks

    ,

    ISSUE #011

    We’ve all hit that invisible wall—the one where you show up to the studio with high hopes and leave discouraged, wondering where your spark went. This week, I want to speak directly into that moment. The truth is, creative blocks are not signs of failure—they’re invitations. They’re signposts that something deeper might be going on beneath the surface, something God wants to address, heal, or renew.

    Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things—including push through creative resistance—through Christ who strengthens us. So if you’re facing a block right now, take heart. There is grace available. There’s clarity waiting on the other side of confusion. And there’s a river of creativity that flows when we lean into God’s presence instead of our performance.

    May this week be filled with supernatural insight, released pressure, and a fresh awareness of God’s power flowing through your creativity.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

    Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

    CONNECT

    Scripture: Philippians 4:13

    Creative blocks don’t just appear out of nowhere—they often point to areas where we’ve believed lies, absorbed fear, or tried to operate in our own strength. Paul’s words in Philippians 4:13 aren’t about hustle. They’re about surrender. When we abide in Christ and depend on His strength, we’re not just empowered to create—we’re liberated to be fully ourselves.

    Prayer:
    Jesus, I lay down every fear, every mental block, and every bit of pressure I’ve been carrying. I believe You’ve called me, and You will strengthen me. Speak into the dry places and reignite my heart with Your beauty. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step:
    Identify one lie or pressure you’ve been carrying about your art, and write a biblical truth to replace it. Declare it aloud every time resistance surfaces.

    CLARIFY

    Sometimes the biggest block isn’t artistic—it’s mental clutter. Clarity often comes when we pause long enough to discern what’s draining us. Are you overcommitted? Overstimulated? Have you been comparing your work to others or working for validation instead of overflow?

    God’s strength doesn’t rush—it flows. Take a moment to ask Him where your creative energy is getting stuck.

    Reflection Prompt:
    What’s been clouding my focus or draining my passion this week?

    Practical Action Step:
    Write out three clear, doable creative priorities for the week that align with peace and purpose—not pressure.

    CREATE

    Creative blocks are real, but they’re not permanent. Often, the best way to break through is not by waiting on inspiration—but by creating anyway. Give yourself permission to make without perfection. Just like priming a pump, consistent motion awakens momentum.

    And remember, Jesus is with you in the process. Even your ‘messy’ art time can be a sacred offering.

    Studio Action Step:
    Choose one medium and set a timer for 20 minutes. Create without judgment. No editing. No erasing. Just flow. Notice what God stirs as you move freely.

    CULTIVATE

    Creative blocks can isolate us, but connection re-energizes us. Sharing what you’re navigating—even if it feels vulnerable—creates bridges. When you show up in honesty, your audience leans in. They don’t want perfect—they want real.

    Marketing Insight:
    This week, tell your audience about a creative block you’ve faced and how you’re pressing through it with God. This not only builds trust—it invites others into transformation too.

    Outreach Action Step:
    Post a short reflection, a before/after, or a simple question: ‘What helps you break through creative blocks?’

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Artrooms

    Artrooms is a powerful app that lets you visualize your artwork in realistic interior settings—making your online presentation stronger and more engaging. Collectors want to imagine your art in their space. Artrooms helps them do just that.

    Creative Tip:
    Upload three of your pieces to Artrooms and explore how they look in various room mockups. Choose one and share it on Instagram to boost engagement and professional polish.

    Link: https://artroomsapp.com

    INSPIRE

    Murals That Mend: Art, Faith & Social Justice

    In Millvale, Pennsylvania, a striking story of faith-driven art conservation is unfolding around the 80-year-old murals painted inside St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church by Maksimilijan ‘Maxo’ Vanka. These vivid murals, blending traditional religious imagery with bold social commentary, depict the struggles of immigrant mothers, war, and economic injustice—earning them the nickname ‘The Sistine Chapel of Pittsburgh.’

    Thanks to the Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals, sections of the artwork were restored in May 2025, now shining as they did 80 years ago. Supported by grants and community outreach, this project reminds us that art can be a spiritual declaration and a tool for justice.

    Takeaway:
    Think beyond the canvas. Could your next project preserve legacy, restore truth, or build community through beauty?

    Find out more about this inspiring story

    LISTEN

    Episode Title: Breaking Through Creative Roadblocks

    In this episode, I share the three major causes of creative blocks: spiritual warfare, internal clutter, and inspiration gaps. You’ll learn how to confront fear-based thoughts with biblical truth, partner with the Holy Spirit in the midst of resistance, and apply practical tools to get the creative flow going again. If you’re feeling stuck, this one’s for you.

    Listen Now

    WATCH

    Song: ‘Break Every Chain’ – Jesus Culture

    This week’s worship pick is all about spiritual breakthrough. As you listen, let the declarations of freedom soak into your spirit and push back against creative resistance. You are not stuck—you are being strengthened.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Mark Lee

    Redemption, Reinvention, and Art with a Second Chance
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Mark Lee, creating art isn’t just about crafting something beautiful—it’s about telling a story of redemption, second chances, and the God who makes all things new.

    Mark is the creative force behind One of a Kind NZ, where he repurposes vintage objects into functional, one-of-a-kind works of art. From clocks and lighting fixtures to Bluetooth stereos and sculptural pieces, his designs breathe new life into forgotten items. “I transform vintage objects that have outlived their original purpose,” he explains. “In many ways, my work mirrors my own journey—infused with themes of redemption and second chances.”

    That personal journey has been shaped and strengthened by his connection to the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.

    “When I was just getting started, CTT’s teaching, fellowship, and encouragement were invaluable. To realize there are so many others gifted and called to the creative arts—and to journey with them toward success and fulfillment—is amazing.”

    Mark describes that unmistakable moment of creative joy when you’re completely aligned with your calling: “You’re working on a piece and you just know—you were 100% created for this.”

    As he’s grown in his calling, Mark has found that the foundation for all he does is rooted in identity:
    🎯 “It all starts with understanding how God sees me. Once we understand His love for us, it’s much easier to understand His purpose for us.”

    That clarity has opened the door for many powerful God-moments—especially in the sale of his work. “What others may call coincidence or karma, I call God doing what He does,” he says. Mark regularly experiences divine timing and unexpected provision through his business. Whether it’s a high-end piece or a $7 card, he always stops to give thanks. “Every time I sell something, I thank God immediately. I recognize His hand in it all.”

    In addition to being a skilled artist and craftsman, Mark also brings years of experience as a graphic designer, which shines through in his polished branding. Everything from his signage to his social media is a reflection of the excellence and thoughtfulness he puts into his creative business. It’s no surprise that other artists often ask him for guidance and advice.

    Mark Lee’s work is a testament to what’s possible when artistry, identity, and purpose come together. Through every piece he creates, he’s not just restoring objects—he’s releasing hope, excellence, and the unmistakable touch of the Creator.

    Apply to Be a Featured Artist

    Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? We love sharing the work from our friends around the world who create unique, beautiful and inspired art, regardless of creative medium. And just a reminder, your work does NOT have to be overtly faith-based to be considered. Interested? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

    Resources for Christian Artists

    If you’re ready to grow as an artist in your faith, art and even business, then check out these affordable resources for artists just like you.

  • Transforming Your Creative Process through Mindful Daydreaming

    Transforming Your Creative Process through Mindful Daydreaming

    ,

    ISSUE #010

    Hey there, friend. Let me ask you a question: When was the last time you let your mind drift in peace, without guilt or pressure to “get something done”? As artists, we often find ourselves battling the tension between productivity and presence. But what if I told you that daydreaming—yes, that quiet, unstructured wandering of the mind—isn’t a waste of time, but a doorway to divine inspiration?

    This week, I want to encourage you to step back, breathe deeply, and allow your thoughts to wander in the light of God’s truth. Philippians 4:8 reminds us to dwell on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. That kind of thinking isn’t fluff—it’s fuel. It’s creative fertilizer that nourishes our inner world so something beautiful can grow on the canvas, the page, or in the studio.

    May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.

    I’m cheering you on always!

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

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    Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

    CONNECT

    Scripture: Philippians 4:8

    In a noisy, fast-paced world, our thoughts can easily become scattered or focused on things that don’t align with God’s best for us. But Scripture gives us a beautiful filter in Philippians 4:8—a checklist of things worthy of our attention. As creative people, our thoughts often spark our next masterpiece. So why not fuel them with truth, beauty, and goodness?

    God created our minds to be fertile soil for His inspiration. When we anchor our thoughts in what is noble, lovely, and admirable, we give the Holy Spirit a place to stir our creativity in ways that reflect His heart. Rather than chasing fleeting trends or comparing ourselves with others, we learn to stay grounded in what’s eternal.

    Prayer:
    Father, train my thoughts to rest in what You say is lovely, pure, and worthy of praise. Let my imagination be shaped by Your truth, and may everything I create reflect the beauty of Your nature. Help me tune out the noise and tune into Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step:
    Set a timer for 10–15 minutes each morning this week. Read Philippians 4:8 slowly, and then quietly sit with the Lord. Ask Him to show you how He sees you, your art, and the world. Write down any images, phrases, or impressions you receive.

    CLARIFY

    Creative overwhelm often stems from trying to do too much at once—or not being clear about what really matters. When we pause and clarify our goals in light of God’s direction, we stop chasing and start creating from a place of peace. This kind of clarity doesn’t come from hustling harder; it comes from aligning our priorities with Kingdom values.

    You don’t have to accomplish everything this week. But you can move forward with purpose when your heart and goals are aligned with the truth. So take time to reflect—where is God leading you? What would bring the most life, joy, and alignment to your creative process this week?

    Reflection Prompt:
    What goals have I been striving toward that no longer feel in alignment with where God is leading me creatively? What one or two things could I focus on this week that feel life-giving, meaningful, and aligned?

    Practical Action Step:
    Choose three clear goals for your week that reflect your current season and God’s direction. Write them down and post them somewhere visible in your workspace. Let these goals become your creative compass.

    CREATE

    Let’s be honest—it can feel counterproductive to stop and do “nothing” when there’s so much to make, market, or manage in your art business. But your most meaningful work often comes not from effort alone but from giving your mind the space to breathe, play, and explore.

    Mindful daydreaming isn’t escapism—it’s a sacred part of the creative process. It’s in those unstructured moments that God can whisper fresh ideas, patterns, metaphors, and colors that are uniquely yours. Think of it like letting a field lie fallow for a season so it can yield a better harvest.

    Studio Inspiration:
    This week, pick one new medium, material, or subject you wouldn’t normally use. Don’t plan. Just play. Use the time as a creative “wander session” and don’t worry about the final product.

    Creative Action Step:
    Each day, carve out 15–20 minutes where you step into your studio, not to produce, but to explore. Use that time to fiddle, doodle, layer, experiment, or even just journal. Record anything interesting that emerges without judgment.

    CULTIVATE

    People don’t just want to buy your art—they want to know you. They want to understand the story behind your work, what inspired it, and how your faith shows up in what you create. When you share your journey with vulnerability and intention, you invite your audience into something much bigger than just a transaction.

    Connection creates trust. Trust leads to impact. And impact opens the door for deeper relationship and future opportunities.

    Marketing Tip:
    Rather than just posting a finished piece online, consider writing a short narrative post or recording a voice memo to share the backstory behind your creative process. Tell your audience what you were thinking about, what God was speaking, or what challenge you overcame in the making of it.

    Outreach Action Step:
    Share one story this week on social media or your email list about the process behind your favorite piece of the week. Include a photo or video and ask a thoughtful question to encourage engagement. Example: “Where do you see God showing up in your creative process lately?”

    INSPIRE

    Seeds of Wonder – Nature as a Creative Spark

    In a beautiful commentary published by STLPR, artist and writer Sarah Hermes Griesbach explores how seeds—yes, literal seeds—have become a vibrant metaphor for her creative life. She writes about the wonder of nature’s hidden potential, and how something so small and overlooked can carry within it a vast world of creative possibility. Her words remind us that inspiration often comes from the quiet, the humble, and the overlooked.

    Whether you’re working in paint, clay, fabric, or metal, her reflections on the beauty of seeds will rekindle your sense of awe and invite you to see nature as both teacher and muse.

    Read the full article:
    Seeds Are a Good Source of Inspiration for Visual Artists – STLPR

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Voice Memos (iPhone or Android)

    Have you ever had a brilliant idea while driving or walking that was gone five minutes later? Your phone’s Voice Memos app can be one of the most powerful (and underused) tools in your creative arsenal. It allows you to instantly capture inspired thoughts, project ideas, spontaneous prayers, or studio revelations—without needing to stop and write.

    This is especially helpful for artists who think better out loud or who get “downloads” when their hands are busy but their hearts are open.

    Pro Tip:
    Create a folder in your Voice Memos app titled “Creative Ideas” or “Holy Spirit Sparks.” When inspiration hits, hit record—even if you’re mid-paint or mid-walk. Later, you can transcribe or organize these thoughts into project plans, journal entries, or blog content.

    Link to Learn More:
    Voice Memos App Support

    LISTEN

    Podcast Title: Mindful Daydreaming: Unlocking Creative Potential
    Listen Now

    In this powerful episode, we unpack how purposeful reflection and spiritual daydreaming can become the fuel for creative flow. I share stories from my own artistic practice where moments of silence, margin, and imagination led to breakthroughs I never could have strategized. You’ll also hear simple, actionable ways to incorporate sacred rest into your week so your ideas can grow from within.

    Key Takeaway:
    Creativity flourishes in wide, open spaces. When we slow down, God often speeds up the flow of inspiration and insight. Making room to dream is a powerful act of trust in your creative process—and in the God who leads it.

    WATCH

    Song: “Getting Ready” – Maverick City Music x UPPERROOM
    This worship anthem invites us into a place of joyful expectation and sacred preparation. It’s a beautiful soundtrack for creative reflection, especially when you’re pondering what’s next, what God is birthing, or simply sitting in His presence. Let it accompany your studio time this week as a reminder that Heaven is always near—and creativity is part of your preparation.

    Watch Now on YouTube

    FEATURED ARTIST: Sandra Lett

    From Brokenness to Beauty—Painting Healing Through Every Stroke
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Sandra Lett, art is more than her profession—it’s her calling, her healing, and her ministry.

    Sandra has been a professional visual artist for 27 years, working with bold acrylic florals, birds, nature-inspired pieces, expressive portraits, alcohol inks, and vibrant resin home décor. But it was in a season of deep personal struggle—when her son was battling addiction and she was facing anxiety, depression, and spiritual warfare—that God met her in a powerful way through the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.

    “Matt’s testimony came across my Facebook feed at a time when I was desperate for hope. His story touched me, and I jumped right in. CTT propelled me into a new season—one of healing, restoration, and powerful new vision.”

    Sandra’s journey in the program opened her eyes to a new understanding: that art can be ministry. “I had been a Christian all my life,” she says, “but I had never heard that my art could be a ministry to others. That changed everything.”

    One of her most powerful projects came through a Holy Spirit nudge to explore healing through brokenness. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of Kintsugi—the art of mending broken pottery with gold—Sandra created a series of six life-sized portraits called the Kintsugi Women, featuring raised gold-leaf cracks and stories of restoration. Not only did every piece sell, but her posts reached over 10,000 reactions on Facebook, with messages flooding in from people deeply touched by her vulnerability. “They told me, ‘You’re painting my story.’ But really—I was painting mine,” she says. “And God used it to minister to both of us.”

    Each piece Sandra creates begins with prayer and intentional surrender. She invites God into every brushstroke, trusting Him for guidance and impact. “He never disappoints.”

    Through her time in Created to Thrive, she’s learned to release control, receive Christian counseling, and surrender expectations for others while allowing God to do a deep inner work in her. That release, she says, brought breakthrough.

    Her encouragement to other artists is as bold and clear as her color palette:
    🎨 “Don’t resist change. Let go of what’s holding you back and ask God to give you new thoughts and creative anointing. He will.”

    And when it comes to growing your art business? Sandra doesn’t mince words:
    📢 “Put yourself out there. Post, post, post. Promote yourself, and allow God to do the rest. If your heart is aligned with Him, He’ll bring people to you.”

    Sandra’s work continues to touch lives through beauty, transparency, and truth. And in every piece, she’s living proof that God can use art to bring light, healing, and hope—one canvas at a time.

    Here’s a transformation video we did about Sandra several years ago. Enjoy!

    Apply to Be a Featured Artist

    Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? We love sharing the work from our friends around the world who create unique, beautiful and inspired art, regardless of creative medium. And just a reminder, your work does NOT have to be overtly faith-based to be considered. Interested? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

    Resources for Christian Artists

    If you’re ready to grow as an artist in your faith, art and even business, then check out these affordable resources for artists just like you.