• Practical Steps to Hearing God’s Voice for Artists

    Practical Steps to Hearing God’s Voice for Artists

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    ISSUE #017

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

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

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

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

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

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    CONNECT

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

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

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

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

    CLARIFY

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

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

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

    CREATE

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

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

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

    CULTIVATE

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

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

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

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Linktree

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

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

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

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

    INSPIRE

    Reimagining Barn Raising as Creative Community-Building

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

    Read the story here

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

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

    LISTEN

    Episode: How to Listen for God When Life Gets Noisy

    LISTEN NOW

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

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

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

    WATCH

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

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

    FEATURED ARTIST: Julia Kuklis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Apply to Be a Featured Artist

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

    Resources for Christian Artists

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

  • Creating Invitations for Connection

    Creating Invitations for Connection

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    Issue #015

    One of the most beautiful things about being an artist is that our work is never just about paint on canvas or clay in our hands—it’s about the connections we create. Art has an incredible way of opening doors, breaking down walls, and inviting people into spaces of honesty, healing, and hope. When we share our art, we’re really offering an invitation: “Come and see what God is doing in me—and maybe in you too.”

    This week, we’re leaning into that power of invitation. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” That’s the heartbeat of a thriving artist: generosity that ripples outward, creating moments of transformation for everyone who encounters our work.

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

    I’m cheering you on always!

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

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    CONNECT

    Scripture: “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” — Proverbs 11:25 (NLT)

    Our calling as artists isn’t just to create—it’s to invite. Each piece you make holds the potential to refresh someone’s spirit, to draw them closer to beauty, and ultimately, to the heart of God. When we open ourselves up and share generously, we embody the very nature of Christ, who gave freely and abundantly.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for the creative gifts You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to see my art as an invitation to Your love and goodness. Teach me to be generous with my gifts, knowing that as I refresh others, You will refresh me. May every piece I create carry Your presence and draw hearts closer to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step: Choose one piece of your art this week and intentionally share the story behind it with someone. Let it be a doorway for deeper conversation and connection.

    CLARIFY

    When you think about your art practice this week, ask yourself: How am I inviting others into connection—both with me and with God? Sometimes we get so focused on finishing pieces or hitting deadlines that we forget the bigger purpose behind our work. It’s not just about completing the next painting or sculpture; it’s about creating spaces where people can feel seen, inspired, and loved.

    Take time to clarify your “why” this week. Write it down somewhere you can see it daily—perhaps in your studio or journal. This focus will keep your heart aligned with God’s intentions for your art and your audience.

    Practical Action Step: Draft a short “Artist’s Invitation” statement that captures your heart for connection through art. Use it on your website, social media, or even in-person when talking about your work.

    CREATE

    Artistic practice is at its best when it overflows from a place of authentic connection. Remember, your creative process itself can be an invitation—an open door for the Holy Spirit to move in and through you. As you create this week, consider how each stroke, stitch, or sculpted line is an offering, a gentle “come and see” to those who will encounter it.

    Sometimes the most powerful art emerges when we’re not striving for perfection but simply making space for God to speak. Embrace the imperfections, the experiments, and the unexpected moments—they’re all part of the divine conversation unfolding in your hands.

    Studio Action Step: Create one new piece this week purely as an act of invitation—no pressure to sell it or make it “perfect.” Focus on the joy of the process and what God might want to reveal through it.

    CULTIVATE

    Your relationships with collectors, followers, and fellow creatives are fertile ground for connection and growth. People don’t just buy your art; they invest in the story, the heart, and the journey behind it. When you invite others into that journey, you’re building a community around your creative calling.

    This week, think about how you can be more intentional in cultivating these connections. Whether through sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, sending a personal thank-you note, or engaging more deeply on social media, each interaction is an opportunity to sow seeds of trust and encouragement.

    Outreach Action Step: Send a handwritten note or a heartfelt email to at least three collectors or followers this week. Thank them for their support and share a little of what’s inspiring you right now.

    WATCH

    Have you ever felt a deep longing to create — to paint, write, sculpt, sing, or make beautiful things with your hands — but found yourself pushing it aside for more “practical” responsibilities? Feeling restless or unfulfilled? This video explores why you might be experiencing creative resistance and unintentionally missing your divine intervention.

    Learn how to step into your creative potential and overcome what’s holding you back from achieving creative success. Discover the joy of pursuing your passions! Maybe you’ve believed that your creative desires were just hobbies or distractions, not worthy of real attention. But what if those very desires are God’s invitation to step into a life of deeper purpose and joy?

    In this video, I share my own journey from serving as a worship pastor and prioritizing stability, to finally embracing my love for nature and creating art with my hands. I’ll show you how I discovered that what I thought was a side interest was actually my God-given creative calling — and how you can recognize and embrace yours too.

    Together, we’ll explore:

    • ✅ How to recognize God’s creative invitation in your life
    • ✅ The fears and distractions that keep us from stepping out
    • ✅ Biblical truths that set you free to create boldly
    • ✅ Practical steps to start living your calling today

    If you’re ready to move from frustration to freedom and discover the joy of creating with God, this video is for you.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: MailerLite
    MailerLite makes email marketing simple and approachable—perfect for artists who want to build deeper connections without getting overwhelmed by tech jargon. With its easy drag-and-drop interface, you can create beautiful emails that share your story, highlight new collections, and invite collectors into your world.

    Tip: Create a simple three-part welcome sequence to nurture new subscribers:

    1. About Me: Share your heart, your journey, and why you create.
    2. My Art Story: Introduce your artistic process and what makes your work unique.
    3. Current Collection: Highlight your latest pieces and invite them to explore.

    Sign up for MailerLite and start turning casual followers into devoted collectors.

    INSPIRE

    Wabi-Sabi Blooms: Reviving San Antonio’s Forgotten Corners

    I recently came across a truly uplifting story about Albert Gonzales, a San Antonio artist transforming neglected spaces with his Wabi-Sabi Blooms project. He’s committed to painting large, vibrant flower murals in every zip code of San Antonio—27 neighborhoods so far!

    Leaving his corporate job in 2014 to pursue art full-time, Albert started small and faithful. His mission isn’t just about beautifying walls but inviting people into a moment of wonder and connection with their community. He’s even covering all expenses himself because he believes everyone deserves a moment of beauty each day.

    Albert’s story challenges us: How might you bring unexpected joy and connection into your community? Maybe through a free art giveaway, a shared mural, or mentoring another creative soul. Let’s keep spreading God’s love and beauty everywhere we go. Read more here.

    LISTEN

    Creating Sacred Connections Through Art

    Listen Now

    What truly sets thriving artists apart? It’s not just talent or hustle—it’s their ability to create intentional connections through their art, process, and story.

    When you generously share your journey, you’re living out Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper. Whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Your openness becomes a magnet for authentic relationships and growth—both spiritual and professional.

    Remember: holding back often says, “I don’t trust God in me.” Freedom comes when you offer your best and trust Him to multiply it.

    Ready to start inviting others into your creative world?

    WORSHIP

    This powerful song is a beautiful reminder of what it means to be fully available to God and others. As you listen, let the lyrics become a prayer of surrender and invitation. Allow it to refocus your heart on being open, generous, and ready to share your gifts with the world.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Cheryl Wilson

    Layers of Emotion, Depth, and Divine Connection
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Cheryl Wilson, painting isn’t just an act of creativity—it’s an act of deep spiritual surrender and transformation. Through her abstract paintings, Cheryl channels emotion, movement, and texture in ways that words can’t capture, creating pieces that speak to the soul.

    Her artistic journey took a profound turn when she joined the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.

    “Even in a short time, this program has been transformative,” she shares. “It awakened a deeper knowledge of my worth as a Christian woman, deepened my faith, and gave me confidence to embrace my artistic voice. Only an awesome God can do this in me!”

    Cheryl works primarily in abstract painting, exploring layers of transparency, chaotic lines that resolve, and thick textures that express her curiosity and search for meaning. Her TORN Series, originally inspired by aging in her 60s, has evolved into a lifelong narrative of growth and healing.

    “When I let go of trying to direct the process and allowed the paintings to happen, it felt like God was speaking to me through each brushstroke,” she explains. “It was sometimes painful and uncertain, but the growth has been incredible—and still continues.”

    Two standout pieces from this journey include “Broken Wings” and “Emotional Layering,” each capturing the raw process of breaking and mending that mirrors her spiritual walk.

    An introvert and empath, Cheryl often processes her emotions through her art rather than words. “Painting is where I find peace, healing, and a deeper connection with God,” she says. “It allows me to connect with others in ways I never could otherwise, and it opens the door to conversations I used to fear.”

    A pivotal breakthrough came when she committed to painting 100 small works in one week—a bold act of surrender and trust. By allowing God to guide each brushstroke, Cheryl discovered her unique artistic voice and found freedom beyond expectations and trends. “Through that practice of releasing control, my true artistic path emerged—one rooted in faith and authenticity.”

    Cheryl’s journey has also included opening up to her husband about the profound meaning art holds in her life, which has deepened their bond and encouraged her to step fully into her purpose. God continues to surprise her with blessings—honorable mentions in shows, new gallery opportunities, and growing confidence in her calling.

    Her creative habits are anchored in prayer and quiet reflection before every studio session, inviting God into each moment. She documents her journey on her blog, Ruby Prose, and shares her process openly on social media and YouTube, creating a beautiful community of faith-filled creatives.

    Her encouragement to fellow artists?
    🎨 “Trust the process—both creatively and spiritually. Keep showing up, even when it feels hard. God will guide your journey and reveal your voice in His perfect timing. You can’t outgive God!”

    Today, Cheryl is seeing incredible growth in her willingness to share her story and art boldly. Through authentic connection and community, she’s experiencing more sales, collectors, and unexpected doors opening. And through it all, she’s learning to trust more deeply, create more freely, and celebrate each step as a divine gift.

    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

    This Issue Sponsored by The Created to Thrive Foundations Course

    Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to step fully into your creative calling? Maybe you’ve been waiting for the “perfect moment” to start—but let me tell you, there’s no better time than right now to take that first step.

    The Created to Thrive Foundations Course is your roadmap to transformation—spiritually, creatively, and professionally. Through powerful teachings, practical strategies, and faith-filled encouragement, you’ll learn how to overcome fear, break free from limiting mindsets, and align your creative life with God’s divine design for you.

    I’ve seen hundreds of artists move from confusion and frustration to clarity and freedom by diving into these foundational truths—and I know you can too.

    👉 Start your journey of transformation now.

    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.

  • 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

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

    CONNECT

    Scripture: 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.