• Honoring God through Your Art

    Honoring God through Your Art

    ,

    ISSUE #030

    Have you ever wondered what it really means to honor God with your art—not just in words, but in your daily creative rhythm? So often, artists think honoring God means making “Christian art” or adding a spiritual label to what they create. But it’s much deeper than that. Honoring God begins in the heart—with gratitude, faithfulness, and a willingness to create in partnership with the Holy Spirit.

    When your art becomes an offering instead of an obligation, everything changes. You start to see your creativity not as a performance, but as a conversation—a sacred space where Heaven meets Earth through your brush, your hands, your vision. In this week’s issue, I’ll share five powerful ways to honor God with your art and step fully into peace, purpose, and partnership with Him.

    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

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    Beauty for Ashes: How God Turned Yvette’s Pain into Purpose

    This week, meet Yvette McLaughlin, a pop artist whose vibrant, glittering portraits tell a story of healing and hope. What began as an outlet during a painful season became a powerful testimony of God’s grace. Through bold color, detailed patterns, and unwavering faith, Yvette has discovered how art can transform brokenness into beauty—and inspire others to trust the Creator who restores all things. READ MORE…

    CONNECT

    Scripture: James 1:17 (NLT) — “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.”

    Everything good in your creative life starts with gratitude. The fact that you can see beauty, imagine, and create is not random—it’s a reflection of God’s own image within you. Gratitude turns your art from striving into worship. Each time you thank Him for your creative gift, you realign your heart with Heaven and release comparison, pressure, and perfectionism.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for the gift of creativity. Thank You for designing me as an artist on purpose, for Your pleasure and glory. Teach me to create from gratitude, not for approval. May my art become an offering of worship that delights Your heart. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Action Step: Start or end your studio session with five minutes of gratitude. Speak it out loud: “Lord, thank You for the joy of creating with You.”

    CLARIFY

    The first step in honoring God with your art is showing up—faithfully and consistently. God can’t multiply what you don’t offer Him. Every time you step into your studio, even on the uninspired days, you declare, “This gift matters to God.”

    Ask yourself: What does faithfulness look like for me this week? Maybe it’s finishing a piece that’s been sitting unfinished, organizing your workspace, or dedicating specific hours for creating. Honoring God isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.

    Action Step: Block off one sacred studio session this week on your calendar. Label it “Time with God in the Studio.” Protect it as you would a divine appointment.  Get your Core4 Focus Planner today.

    CREATE

    Inviting the Holy Spirit into your creative process is where transformation happens. As Philippians 2:13 reminds us, “God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” You’re not creating for God as if He’s watching from afar—you’re creating with God, in partnership.

    So before you start, pause. Breathe. Ask, “Holy Spirit, what do You want to express through me today?” Let Him flow through your colors, textures, movements, and ideas. The creative flow you feel isn’t random—it’s relationship.

    Studio Action Step: Begin your next session with worship. Turn on music that invites God’s presence, pray briefly, and then create freely—trusting that what flows is inspired.

    CULTIVATE

    Honoring God with your art also means growing—both spiritually and skillfully. Bezalel, the first artist mentioned in Scripture, was “filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship.” (Exodus 31:3)

    Excellence is not striving; it’s stewardship. Every new skill you develop expands the language the Holy Spirit can use through your art. When you grow in both spiritual depth and artistic excellence, you give God more to work with—and more ways to speak through your creativity.

    Outreach Action Step: This week, share a post or story showing your artistic process and how God is teaching you through it. Invite others into your journey of being both filled and skilled.

    WATCH & LISTEN

    Episode: 5 Powerful Ways to Honor God with Your Art

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    In this week’s podcast, I share five foundational ways to honor God through your creativity—without striving, guilt, or burnout. You’ll learn how gratitude, faithfulness, collaboration with the Holy Spirit, skill development, and rest all work together to create a life that glorifies God.

    Key Takeaway: When you create from gratitude, faithfulness, and rest, your art becomes worship—and God’s joy flows through every brushstroke.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Meet your new creative companion, UncleMatt.ai — a 24/7 mentor built from decades of my real-world experience helping artists thrive spiritually, creatively, and professionally.

    Need biblical encouragement before heading into the studio? Stuck on pricing, confidence, or creative blocks? UncleMatt can help you think through it with wisdom rooted in Kingdom principles.

    🎨 Ask it anything from “How do I renew my mind as an artist?” to “How should I price my art?” — and get real answers that bring peace and clarity.

    👉 Explore UncleMatt.ai

    WORSHIP

    This week’s worship song is a gentle reminder that honoring God with your art begins in stillness, not striving. “Be Still” invites us to rest in God’s presence and remember that the One who called us is faithful to complete what He started.

    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.

  • Trusting God’s Plan in Your Creative Journey

    Trusting God’s Plan in Your Creative Journey

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    ISSUE #028

    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…

    CONNECT

    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.

    WATCH & LISTEN

    Listen on ApplePodcast

    Listen on Spotify

    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.

    👉 Find Out More & Enroll Today!

    WORSHIP

    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.

    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.

  • Discovering Your Artistic Strengths

    Discovering Your Artistic Strengths

    ,

    ISSUE #026

    One of the greatest joys of being an artist is discovering the unique ways God has wired you to see, interpret, and create. Romans 12:6 reminds us that “In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.” That includes the gift of creativity. You don’t have to be like anyone else, and you don’t have to compare your journey with another’s. The way you create, the materials you love, and the stories you tell through your art are all intentional expressions of His design in you.

    When you begin to embrace the strengths He’s placed inside of you, your creativity becomes more than just self-expression—it becomes Kingdom expression. My encouragement for you this week is to lean into the beauty of what makes your art distinct. Explore, experiment, and trust that the Holy Spirit is guiding you not only in your spiritual walk but also in your creative journey.

    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

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    Meet Muriel Luedeman…

    In our Featured Artist section this week, meet a former Hallmark artist who opened her studio at 72 and discovered a second voice in Holy-Spirit-led abstracts. Her realism makes you linger; her abstracts make you worship. Come see how daily faithfulness turned into JOY and FREEDOM in the studio.

    See Her Art, Read Her Story

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “In His grace, God has given us different gifts for doing certain things well.” — Romans 12:6 (NLT)

    God has uniquely gifted you as an artist. Your strengths aren’t random—they’re fingerprints of His creative DNA in your life. As you grow in intimacy with Him, He’ll reveal not only what you can do but also why it matters.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for the unique creative strengths You’ve placed in me. Help me stop comparing myself to others and instead walk boldly in the gifts You’ve entrusted to me. Teach me to use my art as a reflection of Your grace and beauty in the world. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step: Write down three artistic strengths you recognize in yourself this week, and thank God for each one.

    CLARIFY

    Sometimes the hardest part of moving forward is simply recognizing where your strengths lie. When you focus on the gifts God has placed inside you, clarity begins to emerge about where to invest your time and energy. Ask the Lord: “What part of my creativity do You want me to lean into this week?”

    Action Step: Take 15 minutes to prayerfully list out your top three creative goals for this season. Circle the one that most aligns with your strengths, and commit to pursuing it intentionally this week.

    CREATE

    When you know your strengths, you can create with freedom instead of striving. For example, if you excel at color, lean into bold palettes. If your strength is storytelling, craft collections that weave a narrative. Whatever your gift, celebrate it in the studio this week.

    Action Step: Set aside one hour this week to create a piece of art that highlights one of your strongest artistic abilities. Don’t overthink it—just create as an act of worship and gratitude.

    CULTIVATE

    Your artistic strengths are not just for you—they’re a gift to others. When you share your work from a place of confidence in what God has given you, people are drawn to the authenticity and joy that radiates through your art. That’s how connection grows, both spiritually and in business.

    Action Step: Share one piece of art on social media this week with a short caption explaining the specific strength God has given you that shines through in that piece. Watch how it resonates with your audience.

    Are you loving this Core4 rhythm every week? Get the Core4 Focus Planner and let it help you create a daily rhythm of living and creating with God.

    This issue SPONSORED BY

    Discover your unique artistic voice and grow in faith, business, and community through the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program—your step-by-step path to thriving as the artist God made you to be.
    👉 Learn More Here

    WATCH & LISTEN

    In this episode of the Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, Matt Tommey unpacks how to:

    ✅ Recognize the whisper of your creative soul

    ✅ Decode your unique artistic DNA

    ✅ Cultivate your God-given gifts over time

    ✅ Share your art to create a ripple effect of impact

    Whether you’re just starting out or have been creating for years, this message will help you uncover your artistic superpower—not in a single moment, but through a faithful, ongoing journey with God.

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    And in this powerful episode of The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, I sit down with long-time friends Stephen and Tricia Preston, a creative couple whose lives are a beautiful example of artistry, ministry, and Kingdom impact working hand-in-hand. From running multiple creative ventures to hosting a thriving conference for artists in their church community, the Prestons have spent decades inspiring and equipping others to step boldly into their God-given creativity.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Pinterest isn’t just a place for recipes and DIY projects—it’s a powerful visual platform where creative buyers and collectors are already looking for inspiration. By creating curated boards, you can collect ideas that spark your creativity and showcase your own work in a visual way that builds trust with potential buyers.

    Pro Tip: Start a board called “Art Inspiration” and pin 10 images that reflect your style or inspire you. Then, add at least 3 of your own pieces to that board. This helps position you not just as an artist but as a curator of beauty.

    👉 Explore Pinterest here: https://pinterest.com

    WORSHIP

    This week, as we focus on Discovering Your Artistic Strengths (Romans 12:6), Pat Barrett’s powerful worship song Canvas and Clay reminds us that we are God’s masterpiece, shaped by His hands and designed with intention. Just like a potter molds clay or an artist paints on canvas, the Lord has given each of us unique gifts for His glory.

    Let this song encourage you to rest in the truth that He never makes mistakes. Every stroke of His brush and every detail of your design carries purpose. As artists and creatives, we can find fresh confidence in knowing our identity and strengths are formed by the Creator Himself.

    👉 Listen, worship, and be reminded: You are beautifully and wonderfully made in Christ.

    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.

  • Wake Up, Artists: Why Your Voice Matters Now More Than Ever

    Wake Up, Artists: Why Your Voice Matters Now More Than Ever

    ,

    ISSUE #025

    This past week has been sobering. The tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk reminds us that the enemy is not passive—he’s intentional about silencing voices of truth. But here’s the good news: just like the early church discovered, persecution does not stop the move of God; it multiplies it. What the enemy meant for silence becomes seed, and the voice of Christ continues to resound louder than ever.

    As artists, this is our moment. God has given you a creative voice not just for personal expression but as a Kingdom weapon—releasing beauty, hope, and truth right into culture. Your brush, your clay, your song, your movement—they are not small. They are assignments from Heaven designed to push back the darkness and reveal God’s glory. My prayer is that this week you’ll rise up with fresh courage, create boldly, and remember: Heaven is backing you up.

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

    Advancing God’s Creative Kingdom,
    Matt Tommey

    PS – be sure to listen to or watch my podcast this week… It’s a must for every artist who loves Jesus.

    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. 

    LISTEN & WATCH

    Episode: Wake Up, Artists – Your Voice Matters More than Ever

    In this week’s episode, I unpack the bold message that God put on my heart in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination. We talk about why this is not the time to shrink back, why your art is a weapon of light in God’s hands, and how to stand boldly in a culture that often tries to silence voices of truth.

    I’ll share five key takeaways that will equip you to overcome fear, embrace pushback as proof of your assignment, and release your creativity with fresh courage and conviction.

    Key Takeaway: Your art is not optional—it’s your assignment. Heaven is backing you up as you create.

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” —2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

    When darkness pushes against the people of God, the natural temptation is to shrink back in fear. But God calls us to the opposite: to stand firm, filled with His Spirit, creating from a place of power, love, and clarity. Your art carries His light, and it shines brightest in the darkest moments.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You that You’ve not left me powerless. Thank You for filling me with Your Spirit, for giving me courage when fear whispers, and for inviting me to shine Your light boldly in this generation. Teach me to release Your beauty, truth, and presence through my creativity, even when opposition comes. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step: Choose one Scripture that strengthens you against fear (like 2 Timothy 1:7) and post it in your studio. Let it fuel every creative act you make this week.

    CLARIFY

    When pushback comes, it’s not a sign that you’re off-track—it’s confirmation that your art is making an impact. Jesus Himself said the world would hate Him, and by extension, us. Resistance isn’t failure; it’s proof you’re advancing.

    This week, take a few minutes to clarify: where are you experiencing resistance right now in your creative life? Is it internal fear, external criticism, or just the enemy whispering that your voice doesn’t matter? Identify it, write it down, and then align yourself with God’s truth.

    Action Step: Journal one area of resistance you’re facing. Then write a bold declaration of truth in response. Example: “Fear says my art is insignificant, but God says my art is a weapon of light, revealing His beauty to the world.”

    CREATE

    The brush, the pen, the instrument, the movement—these are not hobbies; they are weapons. Every time you create with God, you’re making space for His Spirit to move. The early church used preaching, letters, and songs to spread the gospel. Today, God is using paint, clay, digital design, and music to do the same.

    Don’t underestimate the studio as a battlefield where the Kingdom advances. This week, create not just to make something pretty, but to release something powerful. Ask the Lord: “What do You want to say through me today?” Then, obey and create.

    Action Step: Dedicate one creative session this week specifically as a prophetic act of obedience. Invite the Holy Spirit into the process, and let your art carry His presence.

    CULTIVATE

    Artists are culture-makers. The enemy would love for you to stay hidden, fearful, and silent—but this is the hour to step out. Sharing your art is not about self-promotion; it’s about spreading light. When you release your work into the world, you’re giving God an opportunity to speak through it to someone who desperately needs hope.

    Don’t wait until everything feels perfect. Share your art boldly and let it do its work. The pushback you may get is simply proof that the light is shining.

    Action Step: Post one piece of art this week with a short caption that points to the hope, truth, or beauty of God. Pray over it before you hit “publish,” and trust God to use it.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Teachable
    Teachable is a powerful online course platform that allows you to share your skills, build your audience, and even create new income streams. You don’t have to be a tech genius to get started.

    Pro Tip: Record a simple 10-minute video on your phone teaching one small art skill (like mixing colors, sketching texture, or sculpting a basic form). Upload it as a free mini-course. Use it to grow your email list and start blessing others while building your business.

    👉 Check out Teachable

    INSPIRE

    This week, I want to highlight the boldness of artist Sam Ryan, who recently created a large portrait of Charlie Kirk as a gift to his family after Charlie’s tragic assassination. It wasn’t just a painting; it was an act of honor, a tribute, and a declaration that light will not be silenced by darkness.

    Sam shared the piece publicly, and the response was immediate. Over 22,000 people unfollowed him after the post. And yet, he stood firm. That kind of courage reminds us all that creating with conviction will sometimes cost us—but the Kingdom fruit is always worth it.

    Friends, this is what it looks like to release art that speaks truth in love, even when culture pushes back. Sam’s example challenges us: will we stay quiet, or will we let our art be a voice for God in this hour?

    👉 Watch the Reel Here

    WATCH

    Be encouraged as you watch this powerful video featuring the song “Break Every Chain”, knowing God has created you for such a time as this, to create art that He wants to use to break every chain of the enemy and loose freedom throughout the world.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Debbie Gallerani

    Whimsy, grit, and God’s gentle guidance in the desert
    📍 Tucson, Arizona • 🌐 debbiegalleraniart.com📸 Instagram: @debbieartworld

    When you step into Debbie Gallerani’s world, you’re greeted by sun-washed desert color, playful jack-rabbit sculptures, and mixed-media paintings with a joyful wink. A lifelong cartoonist turned fine artist, Debbie embraces a style that’s delightfully whimsical and folk-art inspired—proof that your “secret sauce” is often the very thing you once tried to hide.

    Watch Debbie’s Story Below…

    “I finally stopped trying to be someone else and accepted that I’m a cartoonist at heart. Once I let that shine, the work came alive.”

    From press-type to Palm Springs Life—then a holy pivot

    Raised in Palm Springs, Debbie chased creativity wherever she could find it: illustration, hand-painted signage, silk-screening, and eventually production and design at Palm Springs Life magazine (“$5 an hour and I was thrilled!”). Years of commercial work honed her eye—but hours at the computer brought pain and a longing to make with her hands again.

    A visit to her father, an oil painter, rekindled Debbie’s fine-art fire. The transition wasn’t instant—perfectionism and “is this real art?” doubts knocked loudly. But with prayer, courage, and community, she gave herself permission to blend her cartoon line, folk-art color, and desert motifs into something uniquely her.

    Art, hospitality, and holy conversations

    In Tucson, Debbie runs a cozy B&B—“La Casa de Artista (The Artist House)”—where musicians, poets, and painters swap stories over coffee and canvas. That same hospitality has opened kingdom doors: gallery guests became gallery partners, invitations multiplied, and Debbie’s work found a home in the very places that fit her voice best—mid-century-modern boutiques and desert-forward venues.

    • Scottsdale gallery show via B&B guests who fell in love with her work
    • Borrego Springs (CA): a mid-century shop invited her to a Christmas event…then full-time representation…then two solo shows
    • Current: a three-artist exhibition inside a classic mid-century hotel

    “God keeps steering me to the right people. My job is to keep my eyes and ears open—and say yes.”

    Teaching that heals the artist, too

    A season teaching high-school art became sacred ground. Debbie learned to break the process into simple, doable steps, calling out gold in students who were ready to quit. That same compassion now marks her studio practice and the way she encourages fellow creatives she meets through her B&B and shows.

    Created to Thrive + a new way of walking

    After joining our Artist Cashflow Bootcamp and Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, Debbie found fresh clarity and courage in both mindset and method.

    “Leaning into the Lord—and getting practical mentoring—shifted everything. I stopped striving and started partnering.”

    Daily rhythms that keep her grounded

    • Morning Scripture + prayer: “God meets me in the Word with exactly what I need.”
    • Studio play: folk-art color + cartoon line + desert critters = Debbie’s signature joy
    • Hospitality as ministry: art, conversation, and prayer with guests

    A desert lesson for every season

    Plumbing failures, summer slowdowns, and changing markets could rattle anyone. Debbie’s response? Flexible trust.

    “Some seasons are harvest, some feel like winter. God is constant in both. When there’s margin, I ask, ‘Lord, what do You want to grow now?’”

    Debbie’s encouragement to fellow artists

    • Honor your wiring: your “quirky” might be your calling.
    • Invite God into the process—every brushstroke, every decision.
    • Be patient and faithful: God rarely shows the whole map—just the next step.
    • Find your fit: place your work where your voice belongs (not every gallery is your gallery).

    What’s next

    Debbie’s exploring hand-painted handbags, considering teaching private lessons, and continuing to place her work in boutiques and venues that celebrate joyful desert design.

    Know an artist whose story would bless our readers? Apply to be featured in a future issue!

    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.

  • Creative Community Starts with You

    Creative Community Starts with You

    ,

    ISSUE #024

    What if the ache you feel for creative community isn’t a problem to solve—but a clue from the Lord?

    Throughout Scripture, God stirs compassion, conviction, and holy burden before He releases assignment. Jesus was “moved with compassion” (Matt. 9:36). David felt a righteous provocation (1 Sam. 17:26). Nehemiah wept and then built (Neh. 1:4). That same stirring may be what you’re sensing right now for artists in your city—the nudge to open your home, gather a few creatives, and watch God breathe on it. You don’t need to be an expert. You just need a willing “yes.”

    This week, I’m inviting you to step into that yes—not someday, not when you feel more qualified, but now.

    Inside you is a simple, powerful seed: love Jesus, love people, make space. The Lord loves to multiply what we surrender, and I believe He’s raising up an army of artists through living rooms, studios, coffee shops, and church classrooms around the world.

    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

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    Scripture: “When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd… ‘The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.’” — Matthew 9:36–38 (ESV)

    Devotional: God often speaks through holy burden. That longing you feel for godly creative friends isn’t just about your need; it’s a Kingdom invitation. Compassion is Heaven’s way of tapping you on the shoulder. Like David and Nehemiah, the difference wasn’t expertise—it was yes. If you’ve been waiting to be invited, consider this your invitation to be the inviter.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for stirring my heart for community. I surrender my inadequacies and receive Your grace to open a simple, safe space for artists to gather. Show me who to invite, where to meet, and how to begin. Let Your presence bring healing, joy, and boldness as we create together. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step: Take 10 minutes today to pray over three names. Text or message them an invitation to meet this week (even casually) to talk faith, art, and creative community.

    CLARIFY

    God’s assignments gain momentum when we translate burden into next steps. Clarity doesn’t mean you must design a perfect ministry; it means choosing a faithful first step. Start small. Decide a simple rhythm (weekly or bi-weekly), a place (living room, studio, church room, café), and a purpose (prayer, encouragement, creative practice, discussion).

    Reflection Prompt: What specific outcome do I want for the first gathering? (e.g., “Pray together, share our current works-in-progress, and choose a resource to go through.”) Write one sentence that defines success for meeting #1.

    Practical Action Step: Pick a day/time and location, then send a concrete invitation to 5–10 people: date, time, place, purpose, and a friendly RSVP ask. (If you need a starting point and a listing on the global map, register your group at matttommeymentoring.com/smallgroup.)

    CREATE

    Creativity thrives in community because iron sharpens iron. When artists gather, courage rises, ideas cross-pollinate, and excellence grows. The goal isn’t to perform; it’s to practice together in a safe environment where the Holy Spirit leads and craft matures.

    Scripture: “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works… encouraging one another.” — Hebrews 10:24–25 (ESV)

    Studio Action Step: Plan one collaborative element for your first meeting—e.g., a 20-minute warm-up sketch, a shared color study, or a timed creative prompt—followed by 10 minutes of life-giving, specific feedback (what’s working, what to try next).

    CULTIVATE

    Community is also how you grow impact and income with integrity. As you gather, you’re nurturing relationships with future collectors, collaborators, and champions of your work. Share stories, process, and progress. Be findable and follow-up-able—consistently and kindly.

    Marketing Tip: Create a simple sign-in sheet (name, email, Instagram/website). After each meeting, send a short recap with 1–2 photos, a scripture, and next week’s details to keep momentum and deepen connection.

    Outreach Action: This week, personally invite one artist friend to your gathering—or simply to a conversation about starting it. Ask how your group could serve the community.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Zoom
    Why it’s great for artists: Perfect for hybrid or fully online meetups, screen-sharing WIPs, and breakout prayer/critique rooms. Record sessions for absent members and build an archive of encouragement and progress.
    Specific Tactic: Create a recurring Zoom link for the same day/time each week and enable Breakout Rooms (“Prayer & Check-In” and “Creative Critique”). Keep segments short (10–15 min) to sustain energy and give everyone a voice.
    Direct Link: https://zoom.us/

    LISTEN & WATCH

    LISTEN NOW

    In this week’s podcast, I share how God often turns holy burden into holy assignment. From Jesus’ compassion to David’s courage to Nehemiah’s tears, the biblical pattern is clear: say yes, then watch grace flow. I also tell the story of how a simple basement prayer meeting and a small Saturday gathering became the spark for a global movement of artists—and how the same can begin in your living room, studio, or coffee shop.

    Key Takeaway: You don’t need to be an expert; you just need to be willing. Say yes, set a time, invite a few creatives, and let God breathe on it.

    WATCH

    This week’s worship song couldn’t be more fitting. It’s an anthem of invitation, calling God’s Kingdom to come alive in our communities through everyday obedience and bold faith. The lyrics remind us that revival doesn’t start in grand arenas—it begins in hearts willing to say yes, in living rooms willing to open, and in small gatherings willing to pray, create, and believe together.

    As you watch and worship along with Rend Collective, let the song stir fresh courage in you. Imagine your own creative group, studio, or home becoming a seedbed for Kingdom life in your city. May this week’s worship fuel your prayer: “Lord, use me. Build Your Kingdom here.”

    FEATURED ARTIST: Wendy Michelle Davis

    Art, Community, and Saying “Yes” to God’s Gentle Nudges
    📍 Waco, Texas • 🌐 wendymichelledavis.com • IG: https://www.instagram.com/wendy_michelle_davis • 🎪 Austin Avenue Art Fair: austinavenueartfair.com

    When you meet Wendy Michelle Davis, you quickly discover two things: she’s a gifted painter—and a fearless builder of community. A full-time artist for the past four years, Wendy creates and curates spaces where artists can breathe, belong, and become. From intimate art retreats at her restful Waco property to The Austin Avenue Art Fair (now in its third year) and her Backyard Boutique Art Fair, Wendy keeps saying small, obedient “yeses” and watching God multiply them.

    “Everyone’s creative—because we’re made in God’s image. When we create, we share His attribute and find fellowship with Him.”

    A journey marked by faith and faithfulness

    Wendy’s path wasn’t a straight line. An English major and educator who lived in California and even overseas in Abu Dhabi, she always found a way to keep making art—ceramics, printmaking, painting, photography—until God opened the door for a full-time practice in Texas. During COVID, a local course through Creative Waco sparked momentum, shows followed, and her husband Rafael championed the leap into full-time art (bonus: he’s also the culinary genius behind those retreat meals guests can’t stop talking about).

    On the road, the couple travels in a toy-hauler turned tiny home + mobile studio, exhibiting at juried shows across the country and then returning to Waco to host retreats, Saturday open studios, and community events.

    Building a life that actually works

    Wendy is frank about the real business of art: there are seasons, spreadsheets, and stamina involved. She’s diversified income (shows, retreats, events, short-term rentals) and recently hired a studio assistant to free up more time for painting and client relationships.

    “I’m only one person. Focus on one or two things and do them well—then build from there. Get help when you can: an accountant, a part-time assistant, someone who loves your art.”

    A key to her sustainability? Sabbath rhythms and rest.

    “When I take time to rest and be with the Lord, it’s like I end up with more time. He’s our provider—He brings the fruit and the acceleration.”

    Why community matters (and can save a life)

    Artists often create in isolation. Wendy’s compassion for community runs deep, shaped in part by personal loss. With great tenderness, she encourages artists to find Jesus-centered community that counters the enemy’s lies with truth, prayer, and encouragement. Her retreats weave small-group shares, guest teaching, live painting, great food, and honest feedback—because breakthrough grows best in belonging.

    Saying yes to open doors

    Not every opportunity looked like a plan on paper. After a rejection from a big-name show, she noticed an available venue across the street. One email later, the Austin Avenue Art Fair was born.

    “Often, if the Lord’s leading you, the door will swing wide open the moment you knock. I never planned to run art fairs—but God had grace on it, and we just said yes.”

    A word of courage for fellow artists

    • Embrace your identity: imposter syndrome is common, but your creativity is God-given.
    • Take the next step: God rarely shows the whole map; follow the next nudge.
    • Guard your rhythms: rest, worship, and quiet with the Lord fuel the work.
    • Find your people: pursue communities that refresh faith and craft.

    Wendy often returns to Psalm 34:2–5 as a banner over her creative life: seek the Lord, boast in Him, look to Him—and become radiant. That’s the invitation she extends to artists everywhere: create with God, link arms with others, and watch Him do more with your simple “yes” than you imagined.

    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.

  • Dirt Becomes Destiny: Creating with God in the Kingdom

    Dirt Becomes Destiny: Creating with God in the Kingdom

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    Have you ever really stopped to think about what a miracle it is that God invites us — yes, you and me — to create with Him? Not just to make pretty things, not just to keep ourselves busy, but to co-create with the Creator of the universe.

    This morning on my walk (where God seems to love talking to me!), I felt Him pouring out this powerful download that I knew I had to share with you right away. Because here’s the thing: as Christian artists, we’re not here to just decorate the world. We’re here to transform it.

    Our creativity isn’t just a talent or a hobby — it’s a Kingdom assignment. It’s a sacred invitation to partner with God and become living intersection points where heaven meets earth through our art.

    The Divine Blueprint: God’s Original Creative Process

    When we look back to Genesis, we see something incredible. God spoke the world into being — light, sky, land, plants, animals — all with His words. But when it came to creating humanity, He did something different. He stooped down, took dirt from the earth, and formed Adam with His own hands. Then He breathed His very life into him (Genesis 2:7).

    Why did God get His hands dirty when He made us? Because He wanted to model what it looks like to create from a place of intimacy and partnership. He wanted to show us that transformation doesn’t happen from a distance — it happens when heaven touches earth through willing, surrendered hands.

    Dirt became destiny.

    Art as an Intersection of Heaven and Earth

    As Christian artists, we take raw materials — clay, paint, fabric, wood, metal, words — and we offer them up to God. We invite the Holy Spirit into our creative process. And just like that dirt in the garden, when the breath of God meets our work, transformation happens.

    Your studio is not just a workspace. It’s a sanctuary. Every brushstroke, every woven fiber, every piece of clay molded in your hands becomes an altar where God’s presence dwells. When people interact with your art, they’re not just seeing your technique — they’re encountering something deeper, something eternal, something from the heart of God.

    Ordinary Materials, Extraordinary Purpose

    Think about the first miracle Jesus performed at the wedding in Cana (John 2). He didn’t start His ministry with some flashy, showy act. Instead, He took ordinary water — the simplest, most common substance — and turned it into the finest wine. Why? Because He was moved by compassion, connected to the Father’s heart, and fully surrendered to the Spirit’s leading.

    Or consider the blind man in John 9. Jesus didn’t just speak healing from afar. He bent down, made mud with His own spit and the earth, and applied it to the man’s eyes. Again, God took something natural and infused it with divine power, bringing transformation and new life.

    Friend, do you see the pattern? Over and over, Jesus modeled how heaven and earth collide through simple, surrendered acts. And as artists, we’re invited to do the same.

    Your Art Is a Prophetic Act

    When you create with God, your art becomes more than decoration — it becomes a prophetic act. Your paintings, sculptures, writings, music, and designs become invitations for people to encounter God’s love and presence in a tangible way.

    Your art carries His heartbeat. It carries His compassion. It carries His transformative power. When someone stands before your work and feels deeply moved, when they say, “I don’t know why, but this piece speaks to me,” that’s not just about your skill. That’s the Holy Spirit working through you.

    This is why your art matters so deeply. It’s why the world needs what you carry. It’s why the enemy fights so hard to keep you small, stuck in striving and comparison, and disconnected from your true calling.

    The Power of Participation

    Romans 12:2 urges us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Transformation requires your participation.

    God isn’t looking for passive spectators. He’s looking for sons and daughters willing to get their hands dirty — willing to co-labor with Him. When you yield your hands, your imagination, your materials, and your process to Him, something supernatural happens.

    The kingdom isn’t about performance, hustle, or proving yourself. It’s about intimacy and obedience. It’s about saying, “Lord, I don’t just want to make art; I want to make art with You. I want my life and my creativity to be an ongoing encounter with heaven.”

    Heaven’s Invitation to You

    Your “dirt” — your raw materials, your ideas, your stories, even your weaknesses — can become your destiny when surrendered to God.

    God wants to take the mundane and make it miraculous. He wants to take the ordinary and make it extraordinary. He wants to take your art and make it an instrument of healing, hope, and transformation for the world.

    He’s not waiting for you to be perfect. He’s not waiting for you to have it all figured out. He’s simply waiting for your yes.

    When you step into your creative process with Him, you begin to experience what it means to truly thrive — not just survive or get by, but to flourish in the fullness of who He’s created you to be.

    P.S. If you’re ready to go deeper, to break free from striving and step fully into creating with God, I invite you to check out my Foundations Course for artists. It’s designed to help you renew your mind, align your heart with His, and confidently walk out your Kingdom calling as an artist.

    Remember — in His hands, your dirt becomes destiny. And you, my friend, were created to thrive.

  • Your Art Is Not Just a Hobby – It’s a Holy Calling

    Your Art Is Not Just a Hobby – It’s a Holy Calling

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    Have you ever found yourself wondering if your love for art — that creative spark that just won’t leave you alone — is really from God? Or is it just some side hobby that doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things?

    Friend, I know that struggle well. For years, I wrestled with the same questions. I thought my creativity was just a fun side note to my “real” spiritual life. I kept my art over here, my business over there, and my spiritual life tucked safely in another box. But everything changed when I realized this powerful truth: our creativity is not just a luxury or a distraction. It’s a divine gift, woven into the very design of who we are, intended to release God’s glory into the earth.

    If you’ve ever felt that tension, I want you to lean in. Because what I’ve discovered — and what I now spend my life helping other artists discover — is that your creativity isn’t just nice. It’s necessary. It’s not optional. It’s not “extra.” It’s an assignment straight from the heart of God.

    Created in His Image to Create

    Genesis 1:27 says we are created in God’s image. Think about that! The first thing God revealed about Himself in Scripture is that He is a Creator. And because we bear His image, we carry that same creative nature. Your desire to make art isn’t something you came up with to escape life — it’s a divine deposit, an invitation to partner with Him.

    Some might say, “Oh, isn’t art selfish? Shouldn’t I be spending more time volunteering or doing ‘spiritual’ things?” But friend, your art is spiritual. It’s not a distraction; it’s a powerful act of agreement with God’s design for your life.

    When you start seeing your creativity as a divine assignment, everything shifts. You begin to experience the abundant life Jesus promised — not just for yourself but as a conduit for others to encounter Him.

    Your Art: A Vessel of Encounter

    Whether you’re painting, weaving, writing, dancing, or composing, your creative expression becomes a vessel. Just like a song can bring tears streaming down your face in the car, your artwork can become a table where the Holy Spirit meets people right where they are.

    I love to say: your art is an invitation for heaven to meet earth. Romans 8:19 reminds us that all creation is eagerly waiting for the sons and daughters of God to be revealed. People are hungry for truth, beauty, and authentic connection. When you create, you’re not just making pretty things — you’re opening divine intersections where God can move powerfully.

    You’re an Ambassador

    2 Corinthians 5:20 calls us ambassadors of Christ. Think about an ambassador — they don’t act on their own authority. They carry the authority of the one who sent them. When you create as an artist in God’s Kingdom, you’re not just expressing your own ideas; you’re carrying His heart into the world. That’s not just a hobby — that’s a mission.

    It doesn’t matter if your art “looks” overtly Christian or not. It matters that you are a son or daughter of the King. When you create, His presence flows through you, transforming lives in ways you may never even see this side of heaven.

    Faithfulness Over Fame

    God isn’t looking for you to be the most successful, the most polished, or the most popular. He’s looking for your yes. Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.” Whether you’re making art part-time, as a side gig, or full-time — do it faithfully. Because in the Kingdom, growth and multiplication come from faithfulness, not hustle.

    When you bring your small loaves and fishes — your little bit of art, your hesitant steps of faith — God multiplies it beyond anything you could imagine. You might feel like you’ve only got a little to give, but He turns it into an overflow that feeds multitudes.

    Say Yes to the Calling

    What if today was the day you stopped treating your art like “just a hobby” and started embracing it as a holy calling? What if today you gave God your yes and agreed with His design for your life?

    I want to encourage you to pause right now and pray:

    Jesus, thank You for creating me in Your image and for giving me the gift of creativity. Today, I say yes to Your design and calling on my life as an artist. I choose to step into this divine assignment, to create in partnership with You, and to release Your glory into the world through my art. Thank You for the freedom, favor, and opportunities that come when I say yes to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Friend, if you just prayed that prayer, let me know — just say “YES” in the comments. Share your story. I want to celebrate with you and cheer you on.

    Remember, you were created to thrive — not just survive. You carry the Kingdom. You are an artist on divine assignment. And the world is waiting for what you carry.

    P.S. If this resonates with you and you want to go deeper, I’d love for you to check out my Foundations Course for artists. It’s a powerful discipleship journey designed to help you heal, grow, and step confidently into your God-given calling.

    Stay connected, keep creating, and remember — you were created to thrive.

  • Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think

    Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think

    ,

    ISSUE #014

    Have you ever wondered if your art really matters? If it’s just a hobby, something fun to do on the side—or if it actually has eternal significance?

    This week, I want to remind you that your art isn’t just a personal pastime; it’s a divine invitation. God planted creativity deep inside you as a reflection of His own heart, and when you create, you’re partnering with Him to release beauty, hope, and transformation into the world.

    In my new YouTube video, “Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think,” I explore this truth in depth. I believe it’s going to awaken something inside you and help you see your art through God’s eyes—full of purpose, power, and potential. 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!
    Matt Tommey

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

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    Scripture: Genesis 1:27 (NLT) — “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

    Devotional Thought:
    You were created in the image of a Creator. That’s not a coincidence; it’s a calling. Your creativity is a mirror reflecting His beauty and goodness to a world desperate for authentic hope. Whether you paint, sculpt, weave, or write—each brushstroke or word is an invitation for someone to encounter the heart of God.

    Prayer:
    Lord, thank You for making me in Your image and entrusting me with creative gifts. Help me to see my art as a holy calling and to use it to bring Your love and light into the world. Give me courage to share it boldly and faithfully. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step:
    Take 10 minutes today to journal about how your art reflects God’s image and ask Him to reveal fresh ways to use it to bless others.

    CLARIFY

    This week, let’s get super clear: Your art is not an afterthought—it’s an assignment. If God has given you this gift, it deserves your time, focus, and energy. Think of your creative practice as a ministry to both your own soul and to others who will experience it.

    Reflect on what it would look like to honor your art as a divine calling. What small changes could you make this week to treat it with the importance it deserves? Maybe it’s scheduling studio time, investing in new materials, or simply sharing a piece online.

    Action Step:
    Write down one concrete way you’ll prioritize your art this week—and put it on your calendar today.

    CREATE

    When we step into the studio, we’re not just making “things.” We’re participating in God’s ongoing act of creation. Every moment you spend creating is an opportunity to cultivate intimacy with Him and let His Spirit flow through you.

    Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” When you create, do it wholeheartedly, knowing you’re offering it as worship.

    Action Step:
    Set aside a focused block of time this week (even just an hour!) to create purely for the joy of it, inviting God into every brushstroke, stitch, or note.

    CULTIVATE

    Your audience isn’t just potential customers—they’re people who long to encounter hope and beauty. When you share your art, you’re opening a door for God to move in unexpected ways.

    Think about how you can invite people into your creative story this week. Maybe it’s a behind-the-scenes video, a personal post about what inspired your latest piece, or an in-person conversation at your church or local art fair.

    Action Step:
    Choose one piece of art and write a short story about its meaning or process. Share it on social media and invite your audience to respond.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    🎯 Pinterest: Your Visual Testimony Board
    Pinterest isn’t just a platform for recipes and home décor—it’s a powerful tool for artists! Create boards that share your creative journey, finished pieces, and process shots. Each pin becomes an opportunity for someone to discover your work and connect with the message behind it.

    Check out Pinterest for artists: https://business.pinterest.com

    INSPIRE

    At Waunakee High School in Wisconsin, many students thought 18-year-old Molly Schafer was a loner. But instead of withdrawing completely, Molly chose a surprising way to reconnect: she painted 44 stunning portraits of her classmates — spending over 600 hours in her garage loft to bring them to life.

    Her courageous gesture left her peers deeply moved and reflecting on the power of connection. Molly’s story reminds us that art can be a bridge to healing and unexpected friendship — if we’re willing to take the first step.

    Read the Full Story or watch below

    LISTEN

    Podcast Episode: Authentically Connecting on Social Media

    Gone are the days of just posting pretty pictures and waiting for sales. In 2025, it’s all about building authentic, heart-level connection. This week on the podcast, I’m sharing exactly what turns casual followers into passionate collectors — and spoiler alert: it’s not about algorithm hacks or perfect photos.

    We’ll unpack how to tell your story in a way that invites people into your world, use each social platform strategically (yes, even TikTok!), and make real invitations instead of surface-level announcements. Whether you’re on Facebook, Instagram, or anywhere else, this episode gives you practical steps to build a true community that loves your art and wants to support your journey.

    Key takeaway: When you lead with authenticity and connection, you don’t just gain followers — you build a family of collectors who believe in you.

    Listen Now

    WATCH

    “Canvas and Clay” by Pat Barrett
    This beautiful worship song captures the heart of being God’s artwork—shaped, molded, and refined by the Master Artist. Let it remind you that you are a masterpiece in progress and that your art can reflect His goodness no matter where you are on the journey.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Shana Grugan

    Layers of Beauty, Shadows of His Presence
    Website | Instagram

    For Shana Grugan, art isn’t just about what we see on the surface—it’s about uncovering the deep, unseen processes that reflect God’s presence and promises.

    Shana is an acrylic painter working on canvas, panel, and paper, inspired by the natural world, especially botanicals. But it’s not just the flowers and plants themselves that capture her imagination—it’s the story behind them. The seed buried underground, the rooting before sprouting, the play of light and shadows—all of it mirrors God’s ways in our lives.

    “My hope is that the final image of beauty beckons the viewer to lean closer to ponder the process beneath it,” she says.

    Her current body of work focuses on shadow shapes, each unique and fleeting—like a whispered promise from God that is here today and never the same again. This revelation began during a season of exhaustion when she noticed the dancing tree shadows on the pavement while taking her new puppy outside. Psalm 91:1 came alive: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” It was a moment of profound rest and covering that forever marked her creative path.

    Through the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, Shana went from wrestling with doubt and the question, “Am I good enough?” to becoming fully persuaded by God’s promises over her life.

    “I now have a God-given vision as my roadmap for my life, creative work, and business,” she shares. “I’ve learned to apply ‘faithful with little, ruler of much,’ and as I take steps of faith, God shows up!”

    One beautiful example of this was a recent divine connection with an author of a Christian mini-book series. Years after praying with her at church, Shana was invited to create art for the book’s cover—a commission she would have previously shied away from. She stepped out in faith and was blessed to see God use her art to encourage and inspire others through the book’s message.

    At the heart of Shana’s life and practice is journaling the voice of God. This is not compartmentalized—it’s foundational to every part of her creative and spiritual life. She writes, listens, and co-creates with the Lord, uncovering layers of His goodness along the way.

    Her encouragement to fellow artists?
    “Remember God’s vision for your life. Make it real by imagining it, regularly. Then take the one step He shows you and say yes to the invitation. Be faithful and joyful in the journey.”

    Currently in a season of “simplifying” and “fertilizing,” Shana is focusing deeply on her most fruitful gallery relationships, intentional learning, and meeting consistently with an artist friend for encouragement and accountability.

    Through every layer, texture, and shadow, Shana Grugan invites us to look deeper—beyond the surface—to see the hidden beauty of God at work in every season.

    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.

  • Your Studio is Holy Ground, Not Just a Workspace

    Your Studio is Holy Ground, Not Just a Workspace

    ,

    ISSUE #008

    Have you ever stopped to consider that your studio—whether it’s a spare bedroom, a corner of the garage, or a table in the kitchen—is more than just a place where you “make stuff”?

    According to Exodus 35:35, God gave Bezalel and Oholiab not only the skills to create but the wisdom and inspiration to do so in a way that honored Him. The same Spirit that filled them is alive in you.

    What if we began to treat our creative spaces like holy ground? Not because of the space itself, but because of the presence of the Creator meeting us there.

    This week, I want to help you reframe your studio time as sacred time. Let’s move from obligation to overflow, from hustle to holy ground.

    I’m always cheering you on!

    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

    “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work… and the ability to teach others.” – Exodus 35:35 NIV

    God didn’t just give Bezalel and Oholiab artistic skill—He gave them divine purpose and presence in the work. Your studio is no different. It’s the place where you and the Holy Spirit co-labor to release beauty, healing, and hope into the world. The paint, the clay, the fibers—they’re not just materials. They’re instruments of worship.

    Prayer:
    Holy Spirit, meet me in my studio today. Remind me that I’m not just creating alone—I’m co-creating with You. Let every brushstroke, sketch, and stitch become an offering that glorifies You. May this space be filled with Your peace, presence, and power. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step:
    Before you begin your next session, pause. Invite God into your creative time. Speak this out loud: “This studio is holy ground because You’re here.”

    CLARIFY

    This week, shift your focus from output to overflow. It’s easy to get caught up in what needs to be done—deadlines, shows, inventory—but what if your primary goal was intimacy with the Creator in your creative process? Invite God to set your priorities as you intentionally cooperate with Him.

    Strategic Reflection:
    Where have I been striving instead of abiding in my creative work?

    Action Step:
    Write a one-sentence declaration that aligns your week with God’s leading. Example: “This week, I will create from a place of peace and presence, not pressure.”

    CREATE

    When your hands move in alignment with Heaven, your art becomes more than aesthetic—it becomes prophetic. Whether you’re finishing a painting, shaping clay, or weaving a piece, remember: your creativity is part of your Kingdom assignment.

    Studio Action Step:
    Create one piece this week as a “firstfruits” offering—no pressure to sell or perfect it. Simply create with the Lord and ask Him what He wants to express through you.

    CULTIVATE

    People don’t just want to buy art—they want to feel something when they see it. And when your studio becomes holy ground, the art you make carries that presence with it. That’s something your audience can sense.

    Marketing Tip:
    When posting your art, invite engagement that connects viewers to God’s Word. Ask: “Which verse or word does this piece remind you of?”
    Then respond to every comment to deepen the connection.

    Weekly Outreach Idea:
    Post one new photo on your Facebook page or profile this week using that question. Then DM one or two thoughtful responders to thank them personally for engaging.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Facebook
    Tool Tip: Don’t underestimate Facebook! It’s still one of the best places to build authentic relationships with your community.

    Try this:

    • Post a new photo of your art.
    • Add the question: “Which verse or word does this piece remind you of?”
    • Engage thoughtfully with every comment to build genuine connection.

    Go to Facebook and try it today!

    LISTEN

    Episode: The Studio is Your Sanctuary – Creating with God, Not Just for Him

    Ever felt that creative spark and wondered where it truly comes from? This week’s podcast explores the profound truth that your studio isn’t just a workspace—it’s sacred ground. Just like Bezalel and Oholiab in Exodus 35, you’ve been filled with God’s Spirit to create in ways that carry His presence into the world around you.

    We’ll dive into the Hebrew roots of creativity—yetser (internal formation) and yatsar (external crafting)—and how your art becomes a powerful expression of what God is doing inside you. I’ll also share simple, practical ways to invite God’s presence into your creative space, whether it’s a full studio or a quiet corner in your home.

    Key Takeaway: When you dedicate your space to the Lord and assume His nearness, your creativity becomes more than output—it becomes overflow. Your art transforms from decoration into declaration, and you shift from working for God to working with Him.

    Tune in and share it with a fellow artist who needs to reclaim their creative space as holy ground.

    Listen now on your favorite podcast app or at http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/podcast

    WATCH

    To deepen this week’s theme—“Your Studio is Holy Ground”—immerse yourself in the live worship experience of Make Room by Kim Walker-Smith. This powerful anthem invites us to surrender our traditions and make space for God’s transformative presence. As you listen, let the lyrics inspire you to dedicate your creative space as sacred ground where divine collaboration unfolds.

    Let this song set the atmosphere in your studio, turning your creative process into a holy encounter.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Amy Peterman

    Painting the Trees, Telling the Stories
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Amy Peterman, painting the landscapes of Northern Michigan isn’t just about capturing scenic beauty—it’s about telling stories, connecting hearts, and releasing the comfort of God through every brushstroke.

    When Amy joined the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, her focus was clear: she wanted to grow her art business and connect with a community of like-minded Christian creatives. But what she found went far deeper.

    “CTT and the Mastery Program have been game-changers for me. Not only has my business grown, but I had no idea God would do such deep work in my heart. It’s the best investment I’ve made for my art and my heart.”

    Amy is a gifted landscape painter whose work resonates deeply with those who treasure the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Many of her collectors are seeking to capture that love through original artwork for their homes—and Amy considers it a joy to help them do just that.

    One powerful moment in her journey came during one of the 2-day destination Mastery Retreats, where fellow Created to Thrive member Beth Affolter led a Holy Spirit-led brain mapping session. “I very clearly heard God tell me I needed to paint trees,” Amy recalls. “Since then, they’ve been flowing off my brush—including my largest commission to date!”

    Her work doesn’t just connect visually—it connects emotionally and spiritually. At an art fair last summer, one man tearfully purchased a print that reminded him of a cherished path to the beach near a friend’s cottage. That friend had passed away, and another could no longer travel. Holding the print, he said: “I know it’s not THAT path, but to me it is.” Amy reflects, “What an honor to think that God had me paint that as part of His plan to comfort this man.”

    In the studio, Amy keeps a large Petoskey stone near her door—a visual reminder to release the mental weight she’s not meant to carry. “When I’m overwhelmed, I look at that stone and ask the Lord to take the heavy stuff so I can focus on what He’s called me to do.”

    On the business side, she’s learning valuable lessons as she grows. “Have a clear commission agreement. Seriously—it will save you so many headaches.” And when it comes to perfectionism, Amy encourages artists not to get stuck in fear.

    Her encouragement to fellow artists:
    🎨 “You don’t have to do everything perfectly. Just get out there and do your thing! You’ll learn as you go—and if you’re doing the CTT modules, you’ve already got a huge advantage.”

    Her outreach is working too—new clients are finding her through both social media and SEO, including a recent wholesale client who found her on Instagram and a commission client who simply searched “Michigan artist” online. WOW!

    For Amy Peterman, art is about more than paint—it’s about presence. The presence of God, the power of memory, and the joy of knowing that her art can bring healing and hope, one piece at a time.

    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.

  • 4 Habits to Help Christians Find Their Creative Rhythm

    4 Habits to Help Christians Find Their Creative Rhythm

    ISSUE #007

    Have you ever felt like your creative rhythm is just off? Like you want to be in the flow with God, with your art, and with your business… but something’s just not syncing up? I’ve been there too. In my early years as an artist, I was all over the place—starting things I didn’t finish, getting inspired but never building momentum, and wondering why I always felt stuck.

    What I discovered is that breakthrough isn’t about doing more—it’s about developing rhythms and habits that actually work for you, not against you.

    This week, I want to share 4 simple habits that can totally transform your life as an artist. These aren’t magic bullets, but they are proven pathways. When you cultivate a rhythm—spiritually, creatively, and practically—you create space for God to meet you in the everyday and accelerate what He’s already put in you. Let’s get you back in sync, steady on the path, and thriving right where you are.

    I’m cheering you on always!

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    Finally, a 90-Day Planner for Spirit-Led Artists!

    The Core4 Focus Planner™ is more than just a to-do list. It’s a spiritual and strategic companion for Christian artists who are ready to step into creative confidence, align with God’s purpose, and make meaningful progress every day.

    This 90-day planner weaves together spiritual alignment and practical planning using the Core4 Focus Framework™—Connect, Clarify, Create, and Cultivate. Inside, you’ll discover a simple rhythm of envisioning your year, setting 90-day goals, reviewing your week, and executing each day with focus and peace.

    Available Now in Spiralbound or Hardbound.

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

    (If you’ve not already, click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

    CONNECT

    Proverbs 21:5 (NLT): “Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.”

    In a world that glorifies hustle and overnight success, God invites us into something much deeper and truer: the slow, steady rhythm of diligence rooted in trust. As artists, our spiritual health is our foundation. Before the art, the marketing, the money… comes presence. Daily connection with the Lord aligns us, anchors us, and tunes our hearts to the divine rhythm He’s designed for our lives.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for being a God of order, peace, and purpose. Help me to resist the temptation of quick fixes and instead embrace the daily rhythm of walking with You. Remind me that You’re not in a rush and neither should I be. Let my creativity flow from Your presence. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step:
    Set aside the first 10 minutes of your studio time each day this week to invite the Holy Spirit in. No agenda—just presence.

    CLARIFY

    Intentionality fuels momentum. And momentum comes from consistent choices, not scattered inspiration. If you’ve been spinning your wheels, maybe it’s time to pause and realign. What does a thriving week look like for you in this season? What do you sense the Lord is highlighting? Write it down. Pray it through. Then make a plan—with margin.

    Reflection Prompt:
    What are 3 things I can commit to doing this week that align with my God-given assignment as an artist?

    Clarity Action Step:
    Block out a 30-minute planning session and use that time to set 3 meaningful goals for the week in your creative life, personal life, and business.

    CREATE

    If you want to grow as an artist, you can’t just create when you “feel it.” You’ve got to cultivate the habit of showing up. A creative rhythm doesn’t restrict you—it liberates you to build skill, confidence, and breakthrough over time. Daily sketching, 15-minute warmups, prayer walks, or material experiments—whatever gets you moving—do that!

    Studio Action Step:
    Commit to 30 minutes of uninterrupted creative time each day this week. Put it on the calendar. Guard it like gold.

    CULTIVATE

    Your art doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s meant to impact others. But that only happens when you nurture connection. Cultivating relationships with collectors, followers, and potential partners doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just has to be consistent. A weekly post, a personal message, a “thank you” note—those little seeds grow into a harvest of favor, sales, and influence.

    Marketing Action Step:
    Pick 3 people—past collectors, supporters, or fans—and reach out this week with a personal note of appreciation and an update on what you’re working on.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Notion
    Topic: Build Your Artist “Studio Dashboard”

    Notion is a flexible, all-in-one digital workspace that helps you organize your creative world in one place. From daily routines to business goals, this tool keeps everything visible, editable, and connected.

    Try This:
    Create a “Studio Dashboard” in Notion with three tabs:

    1. Art Projects – Track progress, deadlines, and inspiration.
    2. Scripture Inspiration – Record weekly verses and God moments.
    3. Business To-Dos – Stay on top of marketing, emails, and sales tasks.

    Explore Notion

    LISTEN

    Podcast Episode: From Dabbling to Thriving: 4 Habits That Transform Christian Artists

    Are you an ENT artist—Creating Every Now and Then—only when inspiration strikes? You’re not alone. But if you’ve been longing for more consistency, momentum, and breakthrough in your creative life, this episode is for you.

    After mentoring thousands of artists, I’ve learned that it’s not talent that separates thriving artists from those stuck in frustration—it’s intentional habits. In this episode, I break down the Core4 Focus Framework™—Connect, Clarify, Create, and Cultivate—and how these four daily rhythms can radically transform your walk with God, your studio time, and your impact in the world.

    Key takeaway: When you partner with the Holy Spirit through intentional habits, your creativity becomes a highway for Kingdom impact—and your potential finally gets the room it needs to flourish.

    Click here to listen and discover how to move from dabbling to thriving.

    WATCH

    If you’ve been craving a fresh move of the Holy Spirit in your life and creative journey, this powerful worship moment will stir your heart. “Rest on Us” is a passionate invitation for the Spirit of God to dwell, move, and ignite something new within us. As artists, we need more than inspiration—we need presence. Let this song become your prayer this week as you create from a place of intimacy and surrender.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Trevor McCauley

    Journaling the Journey, Co-Creating with Christ
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Trevor McCauley, creativity is more than just making art—it’s an act of worship, a form of prayer, and a lifelong dialogue with God.

    Currently journeying through The Foundations Course, Trevor has found new strength in knowing he’s not alone. “Knowing that other people of faith are on similar journeys and have a hunger for God is something that has been essential to my growth as an artist in Christ,” he shares.

    Trevor’s artistic practice is expansive and multi-disciplinary. He’s currently working on:

    • A two-panel abstract acrylic painting inspired by Isaiah 61:3
    • A collection of faith-based poetry centered on identity and transformation
    • A long-term musical project—The Storm, a symphony rooted in contemporary classical music that’s been in progress since 2005

    Whether painting, composing, or writing, Trevor sees art as a way to experience the tangible presence of God.

    “It’s how I see prayers manifested. It’s tangible. It’s spiritual. It’s relational. It’s how I know God is with me and co-creates with me.”

    One of Trevor’s most profound spiritual habits is middle-of-the-night journaling. While his daytime writing is often reflective, his late-night sessions take on a completely different nature—words that flow as if God is speaking directly to the reader. “The writing becomes more like God directly to the reader… I’m just a conduit.”

    A deeply personal project that reflects his love for detail and meaning was a two-year Christmas gift for his wife: a scratchboard rendering of 17 flowering plants still growing on her grandmother’s property—an heirloom of beauty, history, and legacy. “It was part science, but mostly about art and a connection that only my wife could truly appreciate. Our kids helped, and it was a complete surprise. An amazing gift.”

    Trevor’s creative path began with journaling as an act of faith, long before he claimed the title “artist.” It taught him to quiet his heart, observe his world, and discover his inner voice. Today, that habit continues to shape his direction and keep him grounded.

    His encouragement to fellow artists?

    🌿 “Sometimes it’s how we are changed through the journey of producing art that matters—not the product itself.”

    Trevor’s website has become a cornerstone for sharing his work and amplifying his message. And while the road includes missed expectations, flopped book signings, and delayed dreams, he’s learning that relational trust with God—built in the unseen moments—is what makes the creative life so deeply fulfilling.

    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.