This event was an unprecedented gathering of artists and non-artists who share a conviction that the centrality enjoyed by the arts in contemporary culture must be reflected in the church. As the theme suggests, this conference explored the role of the arts in the church and their place in engaging the broader culture for the sake of Christ. This rare gathering of talented artists and speakers included Martin French, a New York Society of Illustrators Gold Medalist. French has illustrated for such diverse clients as American Airlines, Bank of America, Coca Cola, and George Lucas Studios, and his own children’s book. French gave a lecture and slide presentation of his recent work, later exhibited at the Richard von Hess Illustration Gallery in Philadelphia.
French is a fine example of a Christian artist who reaches out in imaginative ways to those who are either disillusioned with Christianity or completely ignorant of Christ. Artists such as he go beyond the normal packaging of art by the Christian community, promoting work that causes Christians to search the Scriptures and their souls in seeking to live authentically. Oftentimes, the church promotes art that does not engage people where they exist. However, the Church – artists and non-artists alike – must go further in tapping into the raw experience of broader culture, making further inroads into segments of culture where the Church is not present.
Joining French at the conference was Portland author and speaker Don Miller, who presented a session entitled: “Finding and Understanding Christian Theology in Literature.” Miller discussed the theology within Shakespeare’s famed play “Romeo and Juliet.” He notes that when needing passionate metaphors, Shakespeare often called upon gospel themes. Along with other presenters, there was a panel discussion with various representatives from the arts community, and live performances.