Did you know God has an incredible purpose for your art that goes far beyond decoration or hobby? He designed your creativity to be a doorway where Heaven meets Earth. When you create, you’re not just expressing yourself — you’re partnering with the Holy Spirit to release transformation, reveal His heart, and awaken others to His love. That means your art, your hands, your imagination — all of it — is sacred ground where God longs to move.
You were created to bear His image, to be a reflection of His nature in the world. That’s what makes your creativity supernatural. The very act of making becomes worship, intercession, and revelation. So this week, I want to help you rediscover that divine partnership — the joy of creating with God, not for Him, and stepping boldly into the calling He’s placed inside you.
May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.
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Airbrushed Faith: The Art of Trusting God’s Timing
This week, meet Steve Nunez, a full-time artist whose vibrant airbrushed paintings celebrate the beauty of God’s creation—and the faith it takes to wait for His provision. Through prayer, patience, and perseverance, Steve continues to create art that reflects both nature’s wonder and the quiet confidence of an artist trusting in divine timing. Read More…
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Scripture:“Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness.’” — Genesis 1:26 (NKJV)
God’s first introduction to humanity wasn’t as a judge or ruler — it was as an Artist. He created, imagined, shaped, and spoke beauty into being. And then He made us in His image, giving us the same creative DNA. That means creativity isn’t optional — it’s who you are. You are God’s masterpiece, His poema (Ephesians 2:10), created to reveal His beauty and goodness in the world through the work of your hands.
Prayer: Father, thank You for creating me in Your image — full of imagination, beauty, and divine purpose. I invite You into my creative process this week. Let every brushstroke, every song, every word become a space where Heaven touches Earth. Use my art to reveal Your heart. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Action Step: Before you begin creating this week, pause for five minutes of stillness. Ask, “Holy Spirit, what are You creating through me today?” Write down what you sense — then create from that place of partnership.
CLARIFY
Your supernatural calling doesn’t begin with what you make — it begins with who you are. You are an image-bearer of the Creator. When you understand that, your goals, your business plans, even your daily studio routine shift from striving to stewardship. You’re not trying to make something happen for God; you’re cooperating with what He’s already doing.
This week, ask yourself: Am I trying to perform for God, or am I creating with Him? Let His Spirit lead both your inspiration and your direction. The more you align your art with His presence, the more clarity and confidence you’ll walk in.
Action Step: Review your goals for this month. Which ones feel heavy or forced? Surrender those to God and rewrite them as partnership goals — statements that start with, “God and I are creating…” Need help? Get your Core4 Focus Planner today.
CREATE
Scripture:“The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” — Job 33:4 (NKJV)
Your creative process is a sacred conversation. Each time you create, the breath of the Almighty flows through you. Just as God spoke light into darkness, He now speaks through your imagination to bring beauty, truth, and revelation to life. You’re not alone in your studio — Heaven is hovering, waiting for your “yes.”
This week, create with expectancy. Believe that God will meet you in the process — not only to inspire what you make, but to use it as a vessel of His love in someone’s life.
Studio Action Step: Set aside one creative session this week to “co-create.” Begin by praying, “Holy Spirit, what’s on Your heart today?” Then simply follow His lead without overanalyzing. Let intuition and worship guide your movements.
CULTIVATE
As artists in the Kingdom, our calling isn’t just to create—it’s to reveal the nature of God through what we share. That means your art carries prophetic power to speak, comfort, and awaken hearts. Don’t hide that light! Every time you share your art online, display your work publicly, or tell the story behind a piece, you’re extending Heaven’s invitation to those who encounter it.
Think of your audience not as customers, but as people God has hand-picked to receive what’s inside you. Your art is a bridge for divine connection.
Action Step: This week, post one piece of art online with a short story or Scripture that reveals its meaning. Invite your followers to share how it speaks to them. Watch how God uses that simple act to open conversations of faith.
WATCH & LISTEN
“Your Supernatural Calling as an Artist” Listen Now »
In this week’s episode, I unpack how God designed your creativity as a prophetic tool — a sacred doorway where Heaven meets Earth. You’ll learn five key truths about your supernatural calling:
Creativity is God’s nature.
All creativity comes from Him.
God can use any artist — but invites you to partner with Him.
Your art carries prophetic purpose.
You are called to co-create with God.
Key Takeaway: You’re not creating for God’s approval — you’re creating from His presence. When you realize that, art becomes worship, rest replaces striving, and your studio becomes a sanctuary of transformation.
Ever wish you could ask me questions 24/7 about your art, faith, or business journey? Now you can — through UncleMatt.ai. This powerful AI mentor was built from my 15+ years of teaching and mentoring artists. It’s like having me in your pocket — helping you pray through creative blocks, write artist statements, plan social content, or clarify your next steps in business and purpose.
This Week’s Tip: Ask UncleMatt: “How can I partner with the Holy Spirit more intentionally in my creative process?” You’ll be amazed at the biblical, practical, and encouraging wisdom it gives back.
This week’s worship song echoes the heartbeat of your supernatural calling: “We’re ready for You to move.” Let it remind you that the same Spirit who hovered over creation still hovers over your canvas, your kiln, your words, and your imagination today.
For Steve Nunez, creativity and faith intertwine like light through leaves—revealing the beauty of God’s creation and the patience of an artist waiting on divine timing. Based in the United States, Steve is a full-time artist whose work celebrates the splendor of the natural world through vibrant airbrush and hand-painted techniques.
“I find great beauty in nature, as it has been created by God. Consequently, I often engage in the creation of nature-inspired art… My preferred mediums include acrylic paints, which I apply using an airbrush, as well as hand painting.”
A Brush with Faith
Steve’s art is both a reflection of creation and an expression of worship. Each painting begins and ends with prayer—a conversation with the Creator about purpose, provision, and excellence.
“Prior to and during the creation of my artwork, I express my sincere prayers to the Lord, seeking that my creations are pleasing to God and that they provide me with increased opportunities to pursue a full-time career and ensure adequate financial provision for my family.”
Gratitude in Every Season
As a full-time artist who relies on commissions, Steve understands the ebbs and flows of creative business. Yet through every waiting season, he has learned the spiritual rhythm of gratitude.
“I find myself constantly expressing gratitude for the projects that come my way, as well as during periods of reduced activity. This reliance has instilled in me patience and trust in the divine power to accomplish extraordinary feats.”
Even in challenging times, Steve’s faith keeps him steady. Though he admits he hasn’t yet seen the full impact of his art on others, he holds fast to the promise that God will use his hands for His glory.
“I have been repeatedly informed that the Lord will bless my artistic endeavors and that I should persist in pursuing my career as the Lord will soon favor my work.”
Creating for the Glory of God
For Steve, the message to fellow artists is clear: keep your creative life aligned with Heaven’s purpose.
“I strongly advise Christian artists to prioritize the creation of art that aligns with divine principles, as the Scriptures emphasize the importance of glorifying God through all our actions.”
Even as he navigates the realities of the art world—balancing commissions, marketing, and moments of uncertainty—Steve continues to trust that every brushstroke brings him one step closer to breakthrough. His story reminds us all that faith, perseverance, and prayer are the most powerful tools in an artist’s studio.
“I’m trusting in the Lord’s favor.”
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.
Have you ever felt like God gave you this creative gift but forgot to include the roadmap? You show up, you pray, you work hard—but nothing seems to move. You start wondering if maybe you misheard Him or missed your moment. Friend, I’ve been there. Years ago, I remember that same ache, asking God why the results didn’t match the effort. What I didn’t realize back then was that He wasn’t ignoring me; He was forming me.
The truth is, trusting God’s plan as an artist is rarely about instant clarity—it’s about faithful consistency. It’s about believing that His timing and process are perfect, even when ours feels painfully slow. This week, I want to encourage you to embrace that process and allow God to build not only your art career but also your character, dependence, and peace. The waiting season is never wasted when your heart is anchored in Him.
May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.
Cheering you on, Matt Tommey
PS – I’m super excited to let you know we’re releasing our new UncleMatt.ai mentoring tool for artists today. Find out more.
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Painting the Seen & Unseen Beauty of God’s Creation
This week, our featured artist is Helen Read who sees her art not only as a way to capture the beauty of God’s creation, but as a spiritual language of communion with her Creator. Read more…
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Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”
When life feels uncertain, trust becomes the brushstroke that shapes everything. God invites you to surrender your need to understand and simply walk with Him. Even when you can’t see what He’s doing, He’s weaving beauty behind the scenes. The creative process mirrors this truth—every unfinished canvas is full of hidden potential, waiting for the next stroke of His guidance.
Prayer: Father, I choose to trust You in the places I don’t yet understand. Help me release my need to control outcomes and rest in the confidence that You are working all things together for my good. Align my creativity with Your peace and purpose. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Action Step: Take five minutes today to quiet your mind and simply invite the Holy Spirit into your creative process. Write down one area where you need to trust His timing.
CLARIFY
When momentum slows or opportunities feel distant, clarity begins by asking: “What is mine to do today?” Not tomorrow. Not next year. Today. God rarely shows the whole roadmap because He’s inviting you to walk in daily dependence, one obedient step at a time.
Reflect on what God has already said—through Scripture, promises, or prophetic words. Which of those truths is He asking you to act on right now? Let that become your anchor.
Action Step: Write a short “Today’s Focus” statement in your journal. Keep it simple: “Today, I will ___ in faith.” Then, commit to doing just that one thing.
CREATE
Every brushstroke of faith matters, even when no one sees it. The seasons that feel hidden are often the most formative. Remember David tending sheep after his anointing or Bezalel quietly preparing before building the tabernacle. God is using your studio time to build not just your art, but your trust.
Instead of striving for inspiration, create in obedience. Let your art become a living “yes” to God’s invitation. Fruitfulness always follows faithfulness.
Studio Action Step: Choose one unfinished pie
CULTIVATE
Faithfulness in your relationships mirrors faithfulness in your calling. While you’re trusting God’s unseen plan, don’t forget to nurture the people He’s already placed in your world—your collectors, followers, and creative friends. Ministry often looks like presence more than performance.
Be generous with encouragement. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses or stories of how God is working in your creative life. You never know who’s watching, waiting for a reminder that God is still faithful.
Outreach Action Step: Send a voice message, DM, or handwritten note to one person who’s supported your art. Thank them and speak a short blessing over their life.
Have you ever wondered if you missed God’s plan for your life? In this week’s episode, I share the story of how God used a season of frustration to form me into the artist I am today.
You’ll learn three powerful truths for trusting His timing, even when progress seems invisible—and how to build a daily rhythm of faith through the Core4 Focus Framework™.
TECH TIP FOR THRIVING
The brand-new UncleMatt.ai is here—a personal creative companion built from my 30 years of teaching and mentoring artists. Think of it as having me in your pocket 24/7, ready to help you refocus on God’s plan, renew your mind, and take confident next steps in your art and business.
Ask it about pricing your art, creative blocks, renewing your mind, or biblical principles for thriving as a Christian artist—it’s all in there. Designed for Spirit-led artists who want wisdom, not overwhelm.
When you can’t see what God is doing, worship is the bridge that carries you forward. This song perfectly captures the surrender that comes when we trade control for trust. Let it be your soundtrack in the studio this week.
For artist Helen Read, painting is not only a way to capture the beauty of creation—it’s a spiritual language of communion with the Creator. As a long-time member of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, Helen has grown in both confidence and clarity, learning to view her art as a collaboration with the Holy Spirit.
“Beyond the compelling need to create, I’m finding great joy in learning to work with the Holy Spirit and realizing this is a way God designed me to know Him more intimately.”
Painting the Landscape of Faith
Helen’s work is rooted in landscape painting, where she uses the rich texture of oil paint on canvas and gessoed panels to portray scenes that shimmer with divine wonder. Her goal is to capture not just what the eye can see, but the spiritual essence of the moment—what she calls “the unseen of the renewed earth.”
Recently, she’s also begun exploring abstract painting, finding inspiration in Scripture—especially the Psalms—to express invisible truths and emotions that words cannot convey.
“Abstract painting is challenging, but it’s the perfect genre to express abstract concepts—especially those found in Scripture.”
A Journey of Trust and Provision
Four years ago, Helen retired from full-time teaching to focus on her art and online courses. It was a leap of faith—and God has shown Himself faithful every step of the way.
“It’s been a walk of faith with a vastly reduced income, and yet my trust in the goodness and provision of God has grown. When I’ve needed provision, it has come. When I’ve needed encouragement, it’s been given.”
That same faith now fuels her generosity. Each quarter, Helen gives away a small 3×3″ original painting to someone on her email list. She often receives heartfelt notes from recipients who describe how those little works of beauty bring joy and encouragement into their daily lives.
“It’s a way that God speaks a blessing over the recipient. Even a small piece of art can have a profound, uplifting impact.”
Walking in Step with the Spirit
Each day begins with prayer, journaling, and listening for the Lord’s direction. Helen approaches her work with intentional flexibility—having a plan, but allowing space for divine interruptions.
“I’m learning to see what I do artistically as a collaboration. I receive His help with new ideas, problem-solving, and ways of seeing differently.”
Her encouragement for fellow artists? Stay faithful. Stay curious. Stay connected.
Be persistent. Growth comes through consistent practice and a mindset that refuses to give up.
Renew your mind daily. Surround yourself with Scripture and encouraging voices.
Keep a growth mindset. Remember that artistic and spiritual growth are intertwined—and that God delights in the journey.
“We honor Him as we pursue the design He’s given us. We have an exciting opportunity to make what is unseen seen through our work—and I think God is delighted to work with us in that pursuit.”
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.
Real Stories of Transformation from the Created to Thrive Community
My friend, you’ve probably heard me share about the power of artist mentorship, but today I want to step back and let the voices of our Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring community speak directly to you—artists just like you who took a step of faith and found their lives and creative practices transformed through quality mentorship.
These aren’t just success stories—they’re testimonies of God’s faithfulness when we say “yes” to the journey He’s inviting us into.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Finding Confidence
Julie Bagamary: From Self-Doubt to Embracing Her Calling
“I found the strength to overcome the lies that kept me from embracing my call to be a thriving fiber artist in God’s Kingdom. The mentoring program has helped me transform my thinking and see myself through God’s eyes.”
Julie’s journey represents what so many artists experience—that moment when the lies that have held them back for years finally lose their power through community, mentoring, and alignment with God’s truth.
Rachel Painter: Rejection Transformed into Divine Redirection
“After being rejected from art school and thinking my dream of being an artist might never come true, my life was transformed through the mentoring program. My growth accelerated and my entire life was transformed as I stepped into God’s calling for my art.”
Rachel’s story reminds us that rejection isn’t the end of the story—sometimes it’s just the beginning of a different, more aligned path that God had in mind all along.
Financial Transformation and Business Growth
Ann from Oregon: From Struggling to Six Figures
“I have increased my art teaching income over 60% and am on my way to a 6-figure year after doing the Artist Cashflow Bootcamp and becoming a member of CTT!”
Ann’s experience shows us what’s possible when artists receive not just inspiration, but practical, proven business strategies specifically designed for the creative mind.
Lance from Wisconsin: Quadrupling His Art Income
“Since I joined the mentoring program and started doing the work, I’ve increased my art business income by over 4x!”
Notice Lance’s key phrase: “and started doing the work.” Quality mentorship provides the roadmap, but it’s those who implement with consistency who see these kinds of remarkable results.
Lisa from California: $60K Growth in Art Business Revenue
“After becoming a member of CTT and implementing Matt’s teachings, I’ve increased my art business income from $32k to over $92K!”
Lisa’s testimony powerfully illustrates that professional-level income isn’t reserved for a select few in the art world—it’s available to committed artists who learn and apply the right principles.
Breaking Free from Stuckness and Self-Sabotage
Maria from Texas: From Debt to Passive Income and Gallery Success
“Within months I got out of debt, created passive income, stopped self-sabotaging. A year later I have a great monthly membership course and a cool gallery representing me.”
Maria’s journey highlights the comprehensive transformation possible through quality mentorship—financial healing, mindset renewal, and new opportunities that seemed impossible before.
Jan Tetsutani: From Self-Sabotage to Thriving Full-Time Artist
“I pushed past my fear and self-sabotage to walk into my calling as a thriving full-time artist. The mentoring program gave me both the spiritual foundation and practical tools to make this transition with confidence.”
Jan’s story speaks to the artists who know they’re called but have been held back by fear—showing that with the right support, breakthrough is not just possible but inevitable.
Finding Community and Belonging
Toni Wesner: Discovering Authentic Artistic Community
“My first Mastermind group call was this past Thursday… it was amazing! God was showing me the vital importance and blessing of community. Your mentoring group is the first real community I’ve experienced, Matt. I’m deeply humbled by it and realize the incredible amount of love and work you put into it.”
Toni’s experience reflects the deep longing many artists have—not just for techniques or business strategies, but for genuine connection with others who understand their journey.
Wendy B: Spiritual, Emotional, and Business Transformation
“This mentoring program has been truly transformative for both my art business and my spiritual and emotional growth. Through its teachings, I’ve been able to refine my style and hone my skills, all while feeling deeply supported by the CTT team and its community. It’s honestly ‘the best’ and has been a constant source of inspiration and blessing in my life.”
Wendy’s testimony beautifully captures the holistic nature of true mentorship—touching every aspect of the artist’s life, not just their creative techniques.
Clarity, Direction, and Purpose
Amy Kane Smith: Finding Confidence and Direction
“Being a part of the Created to Thrive group has been a huge benefit to me in my art practice and business. Matt’s mentoring has encouraged me to be confident in doing the work I am called to do. I have also been able to really narrow my focus and begin to formulate and work a plan to take my art business to the next level. I am taking myself and my art so much more seriously now. I know my work is good, I know what I am capable of and I am going for it.”
Amy’s journey illustrates the power of clarity—how finding focus and direction can transform not just what you create, but how you see yourself as an artist.
Jill Williams: Integration of Spiritual and Artistic Growth
“Being a part of the Created to Thrive group has enabled me to gain wisdom and insight about the process of making and selling art that I’ve been unable to access on my own because of my limited experience. Matt acknowledges that success is different for each person and doesn’t force a one-dimensional agenda. He’s also very generous with practical information and I’m learning that my spiritual and artistic growth are completely connected and should develop accordingly to experience true peace in my process.”
Jill’s testimony speaks to the unique integration of faith and art that sets Kingdom-minded mentorship apart—recognizing that true artistic flourishing happens when we align with our spiritual design.
Healing and Hope Restored
Gabe Gibitz: Breaking Through Depression After Years of Struggle
“After releasing three albums independently, I hit a dark valley of depression with my music that didn’t lift for four years. Nothing seemed to help. I tried self-motivation, goal setting, counseling and even deliverance sessions. Since I have joined Matt Tommey’s mentoring group, I have seen marked change in a matter of weeks. The Truth that Matt speaks is setting me free — Jesus is setting me free.”
Gabe’s powerful story reminds us that artistic blocks often have deeper spiritual roots—and that true healing comes through truth, community, and realignment with God’s heart.
Shanon Roberts: From Discouragement to Breakthrough Sales
“I had a major breakthrough and started successfully selling my art just 2 months after joining Created to Thrive! After years of feeling like my art wasn’t ‘good enough,’ I finally found the confidence and practical steps to share my work with the world—and the response has been incredible.”
Shanon’s experience shows how quickly transformation can happen when artists find the right support at the right time.
Marriage and Family Transformation
Couples Finding Harmony in Art and Life
Many couples in our community have shared how mentorship has strengthened not just their art businesses, but their marriages as well:
“Thriving in their Marriage & Art Business – This couple has found new joy and purpose as they built their art business together, strengthening their marriage while pursuing their creative calling.”
When both partners understand the unique challenges and opportunities of the artistic journey, deeper connection and collaboration become possible.
Men’s Journeys: How Male Artists Find Transformation in the Created to Thrive Community
While Created to Thrive serves artists of all backgrounds, many men in our community have found unique value in the program’s blend of spiritual guidance, practical business instruction, and authentic community. For male artists who may have struggled with vulnerability, career transitions, or balancing family responsibilities with creative calling, the mentorship program offers both the structure and support needed to thrive.
Matt Philleo: From Fear and Doubt to Flourishing Portrait Art
Matt Philleo’s journey as a portrait painter was marked by a familiar struggle—a heart full of artistic dreams but a mind filled with doubt. Though skilled in creating luminous acrylic portraits with his unique glazing technique, Matt hesitated to fully embrace his calling.
“What do you believe God has called you to do?” his mother-in-law once asked. Matt’s answer revealed his inner conflict: he longed to paint full-time but questioned whether he could trust God for provision.
In 2009, Matt took that leap into full-time artistry with initial success. But when portrait commissions suddenly dried up, leaving his family financially vulnerable, he found himself at a crossroads familiar to many male artists—questioning his decision and feeling the weight of provider responsibilities.
Everything changed when Matt discovered the Created to Thrive program. Beyond just art techniques and marketing strategies, Matt found something more valuable—a renewed foundation for his identity as both an artist and a man of faith.
“The program helped me understand that my worth wasn’t tied to my financial success, but my financial success could flow from my alignment with God’s purpose,” Matt shares. “I went from questioning my calling to confidently building a thriving portrait business with a steady stream of commissions.”
Today, Matt teaches art classes from a beautiful studio on five acres of land—tangible evidence of the transformation that began with addressing the core beliefs that had limited both his art and his life.
Phillip Ortiz: Breaking Through Financial Barriers
For Phillip Ortiz, a graphic designer and artist from Kansas City, the challenge wasn’t a lack of technical skill—it was a seemingly immovable financial ceiling that kept him struggling despite years of experience.
Working from his basement as a freelance designer, Phillip felt trapped by financial limitations that affected not just his art but his sense of purpose as a husband and father. The stress and frustration became constant companions.
“I was skeptical at first,” Phillip admits about discovering Matt Tommey’s work through a friend’s Facebook link. “I’d seen plenty of programs promising transformation, but something about Matt’s message resonated differently—it spoke to both the artist and the provider in me.”
What surprised Phillip most about joining Created to Thrive were the introductory “heart modules.” As someone with years of industry experience, he expected to focus primarily on business strategies. Instead, he found himself examining his fundamental relationship with both his art and himself.
“That’s when I realized the breakthrough I needed wasn’t just about technique or marketing—it was about aligning my vision with God’s provision,” Phillip explains. “Just like Peter, the professional fisherman who caught nothing until he followed divine guidance, I needed to listen and align my actions with God’s plan for my work.”
This shift transformed Phillip’s approach to both his art business and his family life, allowing him to break through the financial barriers that had previously limited his success.
“You don’t have to create from pressure; you can create from life, joy, and the goodness of God,” Phillip now encourages other male artists. “That’s a game-changer not just for your art, but for how you show up in every area of your life.”
Gabriel Stockton: Finding Direction and Community as a Watercolorist
As a watercolor artist, Gabriel Stockton appreciated the fluidity and spontaneity of his medium, but his creative practice lacked the structure and purpose needed for sustainable growth. Like many male artists, Gabriel enjoyed the solitary aspects of creation but hadn’t yet discovered the power of intentional community.
“I was creating beautiful pieces, but without a clear strategy or purpose,” Gabriel reflects. “As both an artist and a father, I felt disconnected from any sense of artistic community that could help me navigate both roles effectively.”
The Created to Thrive program introduced Gabriel to structured goal-setting that transformed his approach. Rather than seeing planning as restrictive to his creativity, he discovered how intentional strategy could actually enhance his artistic freedom and productivity.
But the most profound transformation came through the program’s emphasis on community connection. For Gabriel, who had primarily viewed art as a solitary pursuit, discovering the value of transparent relationships with fellow artists was revolutionary.
“The vulnerability I found within the group—particularly among the other men—changed everything,” Gabriel shares. “We could openly discuss not just art techniques, but the challenges of balancing creative work with family life, financial pressures, and spiritual growth.”
This newfound community empowered Gabriel to embrace a role he hadn’t previously considered—mentoring other artists. He realized that his journey wasn’t just about personal achievement but building relationships that nurtured both artistic and spiritual growth.
“I’ve learned that strength comes not just from mastering your craft, but from connecting authentically with others who understand your struggles and celebrate your victories,” Gabriel says. “That’s a lesson that has transformed both my art and my role as a husband and father.”
Trace Chiodo: Aligning Passion with Purpose
After 25 years as a graphic designer, Trace Chiodo had developed impressive technical skills in digital art, illustration, and photography. His work beautifully integrated his lifelong passions for golf and fishing—creating unique pieces that captivated art lovers.
But despite his experience and talent, Trace faced financial uncertainty and lacked clarity about how to navigate the art market independently after years of working for others.
“I needed more than just better marketing techniques,” Trace explains. “As a man of faith, I wanted my entire approach to art to reflect my belief in living by faith. I was searching for a way to fully align my artistic career with God’s purpose.”
The Kingdom-focused approach of the Created to Thrive program provided exactly what Trace was seeking—a mentorship experience that addressed both artistic growth and spiritual alignment. Through the program, Trace experienced concrete transformations:
“I now have my own dedicated studio space, which has been crucial for my creative process,” Trace shares. “I’ve developed additional income streams that provide stability for my family. I’m exhibiting beyond just local art centers, and more people are discovering and connecting with my work.”
For Trace, the mentorship program offered a holistic framework that honored his desire to be both successful in business and faithful to his spiritual convictions—a balance that many male artists struggle to achieve.
“The program gave me permission to pursue excellence in both my art and my business without compromising my values,” Trace says. “That integration has been the key to becoming truly successful as an artist and as a man.”
The Unique Value for Men in Artistic Community
These stories highlight how male artists in the Created to Thrive community have found unique value in a program that addresses their specific challenges:
Identity and Purpose: Many men struggle with questions of identity when pursuing creative careers. The program helps them integrate their artistic calling with their sense of purpose and responsibility.
Authentic Vulnerability: The community provides a safe space for men to be vulnerable about their struggles without fear of judgment—often a rare experience in male-dominated environments.
Practical Stewardship: The program’s emphasis on good business practices resonates with men’s desire to be good stewards of their talents and resources.
Integrated Faith: For men of faith, the program offers a way to align their creative careers with their spiritual values without compromise.
Balancing Roles: Many male artists in the program have found strategies for balancing their artistic calling with their roles as husbands, fathers, and providers.
Through the testimonies of artists like Matt, Phillip, Gabriel, and Trace, we see how the Created to Thrive program addresses the whole person—not just artistic technique or business strategy, but the heart, mind, and spirit of the artist. For these men and many others in our community, this holistic approach has been the key to lasting transformation in both their art and their lives.
Could Your Story Be Next?
These testimonials represent just a small sample of the thousands of artists who have found transformation through the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program. Each journey is unique—reflecting God’s individual design for each artist—yet all share common threads of breakthrough, growth, and alignment with divine purpose.
As Paulette Insall so powerfully stated: “I just have to say it is the BEST investment I’ve made in my career as an artist! He covers all the bases; business, mindset+spiritual, and creativity. If you are ready to stop making excuses and get to work on stepping fully into the artist God created you to be, you need to go sign up!”
My friend, I believe your story of transformation is waiting to be written—and it could begin today. What limiting beliefs, financial challenges, creative blocks, or sense of isolation might be overcome through the right mentorship community?
As Judy Goddard wisely observed: “Matt Tommey is a successful artist whose love of the Lord is deep and intimate. That relationship informs every part of his life. He is sharing what he’s learned on his spiritual journey, as it pertains to thriving and prospering as an artist. I highly recommend that any Christian who has been called to the arts, and desires to flourish in them, work with Matt and see the difference it will make in their lives.”
The question isn’t whether transformation is possible—these testimonials prove that it is. The question is whether you’re ready to say “yes” to the journey God has for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Artist Testimonials
Are these results typical for members of the Created to Thrive program? While each artist’s journey is unique, the transformations shared in these testimonials represent common patterns we see among members who actively engage with the program resources and community. The degree and pace of change varies based on factors like starting point, consistency of implementation, and individual circumstances. However, our members consistently report meaningful growth in areas of mindset, spiritual connection, creative confidence, and business acumen. Those who experience the most dramatic results typically commit to regular participation in live sessions, community engagement, and consistent application of the principles and practices taught in the program.
How long does it typically take to see results like these? The timeframe for experiencing transformation varies based on individual circumstances, but many members report noticing initial shifts in their thinking and creative approach within the first 30 days of joining the program. Tangible business results, such as increased sales or higher pricing, often emerge within 3-6 months of those who implement the business strategies consistently. Significant transformations like career changes or substantial income increases typically occur over 6-12 months of dedicated engagement. The stories shared here represent members at various stages of their journey—some who’ve been with us for several years and others who experienced breakthroughs within their first few months.
What if my situation or creative medium is different from these testimonials? Created to Thrive serves artists across virtually every creative medium—painters, sculptors, fiber artists, photographers, jewelers, woodworkers, potters, and many more. The principles of Kingdom creativity, mindset renewal, and art business development apply universally, while the specific application is tailored to your unique circumstances. Our community includes artists from diverse backgrounds, geographic locations, and stages of development. The varied testimonials shared here reflect this diversity, showing that transformation is possible regardless of your starting point, medium, or specific challenges.
Can I connect with these artists to hear more about their experience? Many of the artists featured in these testimonials actively participate in our community and regularly share their ongoing journey in our live sessions, BackStage Pass interviews, and Case Studies. When you join the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, you’ll have opportunities to connect directly with fellow members, ask questions, and learn from their experiences. We also frequently feature in-depth interviews with members who have experienced significant breakthroughs, allowing you to gain deeper insights into their transformation process and apply relevant strategies to your own journey.
