February 2004 - God's Beauty in Art

APPRECIATING ABILITIES

"I can't do it!"

Sound familiar? Usually between the ages of approximately 7 and 10, children are observant enough to realize that their talents are not exactly perfect, though they want them to be. This frustration becomes especially noticeable during art classes. When a student sees that another may be able to draw or paint better, or comes up with creative ideas with ease, they can become frustrated to a point of quitting. Just like any other subject, art should be one that is explored, tried, and appreciated. (See archives regarding the Beauty of God in Art) As times goes by, the student may or may not pursue an art career, but at least they will develop a greater appreciation for the fine arts, its benefits, and God's beauty in true art.

Recently I taught a class to this age group to help reinforce the fact that we are all incapable of anything without God, and that the only way anyone can do any good thing is with God - even good art! 

During the history/instructional class time, the children were introduced to artists without hands - that very special group of people who amaze even the most talented artists with their incredible talents. Through information obtained by The Association of Handicapped Artists and The Association of Mouth & Foot Painting Artists Worldwide, they learned of the fallacy of the phrase "I can't do it!"

Mr. Dennis A. Francesconi from California was enjoying water skiing when, one day, he had a terrible accident which paralyzed him from the neck down. It took some time, but his life became an example of strong determination and miraculous ability. He eventually learned to paint with his mouth and now produces beautiful art work. He also is able to work with pastel pencil, which is what The American Eagle was produced with below. You can view more of Mr. Francesoni's work on his website: www.sconi.com .

Another artist from India, Mr. Elangoven, was paralyzed after a diving accident while a member of the Indian airforce. Below is an example of his art work. You can see more of his work at www.indiabuildnet.com .

As I shared the stories of some handicapped artists from around the world, it was obvious that a great impression was being made on my students. They were glued with attention as they passed around the pictures of artwork created by these very special people. I reinforced the fact that these people were at one time with working hands, feet, etc., just as they (the students) had, but something much greater than themselves enabled them to go on and do the "impossible". It was God's incredible grace.

The students must have felt a sort of shame to think of complaining of imperfection with their art work when each one of them, by God's mercy, has all the tools to try. Students that are handicapped in any way should receive a sense of encouragement to know they are not alone and all things are possible through Christ who strengthens us.

After the lecture, I had the students actually try painting with their mouths. If you do this, be sure to wash off the ends of the paint brushes. I outlined flower shapes, taped the papers to the wall, and allowed them to concentrate on maneuvering the brush strokes to achieve the affects they wanted. It was no doubt very difficult, but extremely interesting for them. They received a very keen sense of appreciating the hands they have from God, and the opportunities to use them, especially to thank God for them. The second lesson, the children painted the same flower with their hands. They did their best. They all tried, and no one complained that "They can't do it"!

The most beautiful pictures that anyone could paint are only those which reflect God's beauty. We see His beauty in everything He has created. It is interesting that all the pictures I have seen by these incredible artists have been subjects reflecting the creativity and beauty of their Maker; flowers, scenery, animals, people, fruit, oceans, etc. It's no doubt that God's perfect beauty and majesty not only inspire our own creativity, but it is sure to bring perfect peace to our souls! (Below are some examples of other artists who have learned the "art" of God's grace!)

 

Trevor Wells was born in Portsmouth on 1 November 1956, his family being from a Naval background. His passion from an early age was sport, which included rugby, cricket, football and angling. It was whilst playing for Uxbridge Rugby Close at the age of 21 that he broke his neck and became paralysed. After 7 months intensive treatment at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, Trevor transferred to a long stay disabled unit in Hillingdon, Middlesex. It was here that Trevor was introduced to painting (he is totally self taught and has no formal training) and quickly found that he had a great talent. His pictures of snow scenes and landscapes are of a photographic quality and are very popular throughout the world. Trevor now lives with his wife, Shirley and daughter, Anya in Chesham, Buckinghamshire.

Florence Bunn was born in 1937 and educated at St Hilda’s College, Durham. She taught maths in Hartlepool until she married and then moved to Blackpool. Florence continued teaching until the birth of her first son. After the birth of her second son came the onset of multiple sclerosis and with it came the need for a new career. Florence started mouth painting just to fill in the long hours but it became the most rewarding career she could have wished for. Florence paints delicate flowers in watercolours and loves painting on china and porcelain.

Mojgan Safa was born prematurely at home in 1968. Sadly no oxygen was available and it was later apparent that the result of this lack of oxygen was Cerebral Palsy.  Mojgan loves art and became a student member of the MFPA in 1988. She is now studying for a university degree at Roehampton University. Mojgan is very independent and now has her own flat.

More at the Mouth and Foot Painting Association in the UK

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Philippians 4:13

Comments, suggestions or questions, contact Jane@HisGlory.us