In this episode of The Artistic Vision, our co-host Gary Ball, discusses how to look at a painting. He offers practical advice on how to approach a painting--what to look for as we consider what the artist intends to communicate, and beyond that, what God may reveal through our engagement with art. Additionally, we explore the importance of vision--that sight is God-given and is both a reflection of our ability to understand and develops our capacity to understand. Looking at a painting can expose our attentiveness, and by looking for meaning beneath the layers of a painting, we grow to see God as he is revealed throughout all creation.

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https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Today Karen Swallow Prior joins The Artistic Vision to provide us with practical tips for engaging literature deeply and intentionally. This talk is entitled, "How to Read a Book." Karen Swallow Prior is a renowned author and professor known for her work on literature and the evangelical imagination. Today she highlights the importance of reading slowly and attentively as a spiritual discipline. She offers insight on the collective imagination, its impact on society and the role of literature in forming virtues and character.

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Today we welcome, Bob Crawford, bassist for The Avett Brothers, to continue our series. Here he speaks on "How to Listen to a Song." Bob reminds us of the profound connection between music and faith, emphasizing that all music can be appreciated through a spiritual lens. He shares insights on how to actively listen to music, the importance of understanding harmony, and the role of hymns in both secular and Christian contexts. The discussion includes personal anecdotes and audience interactions, highlighting the universal impact of music on human experience.

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Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org
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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Today, on The Artistic Vision we welcome poet and professor Benjamin Myers to continue our series of talks related to the aesthetic life. In this episode, Ben discusses the significance of poetry in cultivating attention and contemplation. He emphasizes the role of beauty, metaphor, and sound in enhancing the poetic experience. The discussion also touches on the sacramental nature of poetry, as well as the challenges of teaching poetry in a way that respects its artistic integrity while providing necessary context.

Benjamin Myers was the 2015-2016 Poet Laureate of the State of Oklahoma and is the author of four books of poetry, of one book on poetics, and of numerous articles, essays, and reviews. He is a frequent speaker at conferences and literary festivals around the country. Myers is a professor of literature at Oklahoma Baptist University, where he directs the Great Books Honors Program.

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Today, on The Artistic Vision we begin of a series of talks related to the aesthetic life. On this episode, our very own Alex Sosler explores the significance of beauty in the Christian life, emphasizing its role in shaping our life in Christ. He discusses the concept of an obedience to an aesthetic life, which encourages us to engage with beauty in art and culture, and how this engagement can lead to deeper insights and a more fulfilling existence. The conversation also touches on the Christian approach to the challenges of modern entertainment.

Alex Sosler is Associate Professor of Bible and Ministry at Montreat College where he teaches practical theology, education, and issues related to church and culture. He also serves as Assisting Priest at Redeemer Anglican Church in Asheville, North Carolina.

He received his M.Div. and Ed.D. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. His dissertation was on the aims and purposes of Christian Higher Education.

His writing has appeared in Christianity Today, Plough, Fathom Magazine, Front Porch Republic, Christ and Pop Culture, Mockingbird, Fare Forward, and Gospel-Centered Discipleship.

He is the author of Learning to Love: Christian Education as Pilgrimage and A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation, as well as editor of Theology and the Avett Brothers, and co-author of The Artistic Vision with Gary Ball. He also is a contributor to several books: Theology and Tolkein, Theology and Breaking Bad, and Theology and the Blues.

Prior to academia, Dr. Sosler served as a pastoral assistant near Cleveland, Ohio, and as an associate pastor in Austin, Texas.

Follow us on Instagram:
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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, poet and writer Paul Pastor joins us to talk about his new poetry collection, The Locust Years, which explores the beautiful irrationality of hope amid loss. Listen to the way he compares hope to a rat! Also, we discuss the meaning and value of “Christian art” and why artists of faith should boldly embrace their spiritual identity, engaging the world through joy, grace, love, and redemption. This inspiring conversation is perfect for Christian artists, poets, and writers seeking to create meaningful work that reflects faith, beauty, and the power of authentic hope.

Paul J. Pastor is a poet, writer, and editor from Oregon. His work uncovers the inner life of the world, as experienced in nature, literature, and the rich traditions of historic Christian spirituality.

Paul is the author of several books, including Bower Lodge: Poems, A Kids Book About God, The Listening Day series, and The Face of the Deep. His work has been widely published in many fine outlets, including Books & Culture, The Los Angeles Review of Books, The Windhover, Christianity Today, Fathom, Ekstasis, Solum Literary Press, and has been anthologized by The New York Quarterly Review.

Paul serves HarperCollins as Executive Editor for Nelson Books, where he publishes authors of significant creative and commercial potential who encourage grounded spiritual renewal for our time of pain and opportunity.

Paul has lived for years in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge, where he wanders the woods with his wife Emily, a classically-trained fine artist, and their three children.

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Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org
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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, filmmaker Josh David Jordan shares powerful insights on storytelling and unique way that cinema includes the audience as participants in art. We explore how great films invite observers to believe in an imagined world—and how staying one step ahead keeps them captivated. Josh unpacks the mystery behind visual storytelling and the role of imagination in filmmaking. We also discuss his bold new film, El Tonto Pro Christo—a black-and-white, European-style movie about Orthodox monks. Perfect for creatives, filmmakers, and anyone seeking deeper meaning through faith, art, and cinematic storytelling.

www.joshdavidjordan.com
"Starting as an actor, I appeared in several feature films and the sitcom SCRUBS. I began to transition behind the lens slowly. I've worked on MTV featured music videos for The Polyphonic Spree, Rhett Miller of the Old 97's, Joshua Ray Walker, and many more.

After premiering my short, SAM AND GUS, and winning several film festival awards, along with audience awards, I decided to write and direct my first full-length feature film; THIS WORLD WON'T BREAK.

TWWB, "the little film that could," was self-funded for a whopping 36K, won worldwide awards, and can now be streamed on most platforms, including Amazon Prime.

I'm currently working on two new pictures, and I'd love for you to be a part of this process with me. "

Follow us on Instagram:
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Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org
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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, poet and director arts ministry Chelsea Fraser shares her journey of wrestling with her artistic calling, creativity, and faith. We dive into her new poetry collection, The Mother Tree, and explore how poetry can reveal truth rather than obscure it. Chelsea also gives a behind-the-scenes look at leading an arts ministry in a local church—curating gallery shows, hosting concerts, and nurturing artists in community. This conversation is a rich resource for poets, creatives, and church leaders seeking to integrate art, vocation, and spiritual life in meaningful and lasting ways.

Chelsea Fraser is a poet and the director of a Fine Arts program at First Presbyerian Church, in downtown in Greenville, SC

Buy Chelsea's Book Here!
https://www.amazon.com/Mother-Tree-Chelsea-Fraser/dp/B0F4T84MC2/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2DB3JAYWGX8KC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-Y5Evebr2XNpxiMdXe2-OhwHbYG-fi-DwFfQBc8GJm8.dXTbAgGv5RC1adX_VEr6ul3HEEsuuaAwnLun7Y1U_HE&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+mother+tree+chelsea+fraser&qid=1749499770&sprefix=the+mother+tree%2Caps%2C308&sr=8-1

Follow us on Instagram:
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Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org
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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1