Most of us associate the arts to actual artworks and art pieces commonly seen in museums and parks. But what many are not aware of is that there are different forms of artistic expressions. The truth is that there is no limitation when it comes to the art. Artists are free to express their artistic talents and share them with the world. As the world becomes globally interconnected, we realize how diverse we all are in different aspects of life. An example of which is Art Aloud, an art to poetry collaboration.
While many of you probably haven’t heard of such a collab, it has been happening for ten years already in some states in the U.S. and even in other countries throughout the world. Artistic poetry is a great way to revive the interest and passion in poetry in a very artsy way.
The idea came into being thanks to Paul Dahlston and the Big Picture Discussion Group, a cadre of artists and thinkers who used to meet at the Business of Art Center (now the Manitou Art Center). Even after the group disbanded a few years ago, a few dedicated community members kept Art Aloud alive.
Cas Foste of Academy Art & Frame Company, who now organizes Art Aloud, says: “We get some really dynamic stuff, and we are totally all about collaborations, getting writers and artists to work together on pieces.”
Art Aloud began as a strict art-to-poetry collaboration, but over the years it has evolved to include all manner of written word, from quotes to short stories. Writing hangs alongside the artwork with which it’s connected (or, in some cases, is incorporated into the artwork) and weekly receptions throughout the month include a reading component similar to an open mic.
During this coming Lent, artistic poetry is also a great way to relive the life of Christ. The Church regularly conducts this artistic poetry practice to remind all of the sacrifices of Jesus on Calvary and on the cross and His gift of salvation to the world. Aside from artistic poetry, you can also see many works of arts displayed in churches the world over housed in churches that are centuries old.
Experience Jesus’ last week through word, art and scripture at Christ the King Lutheran on Palm Sunday, April 9.
Worship services will be at 9 and 10:30 a.m. at 1301 Sebastian Blvd., Sebastian.
Special artwork by Sebastian resident Dave Sandgren and his mother Nancy Sandgren will be exhibited during the service. Each primarily black and white artwork will be unveiled as writings about it are read aloud. The art depicts Jesus last week on earth, from his triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on the lowly donkey to his death on the cross and then his glorious resurrection on Easter.
The special service starts outdoors with the processional gospel and the blessing of the palms.
Later in the week will be the Maundy Thursday worship service at 7:30 pm.
“The term ‘Maundy’ refers to Jesus’ command to love as he shared his last meal with the disciples,” said the Rev. Karen Leedahl. Following Holy Communion, the service will conclude with stripping of the worship space of all adornment in preparation for Good Friday.
On Good Friday, Christ the King is offering the special Holy Week Experience. Participants can arrive anytime between noon and 5 p.m. to visit different meditation points. At each point there will be scripture to read, a question to contemplate, and/or an activity in which to participate. Seating will be provided at each stop. Worshipers proceed at their own pace.
The arts have a big impact on our daily lives even though many of us are oblivious to it most of the time. Nations have been formed greatly in part because of the influence of the culture and the arts and many great works of arts also serve as reminders of how people lived over the years. From cave paintings to sculptures, body art and body paintings and piercing, renowned artwork in museums, all these artistic expressions define society over a period of time and continue to do so until now.
Nowadays, you can go to museums to witness for yourself artwork made by great masters who have long been gone or more modern celebration of the arts through poetry in motion.