"Beneath the Surface" will be on display from
The Stirring Art Gallery in Hope Church
(located upstairs inside Entrance 2)
8500 Walnut Grove Rd., Cordova, Tennessee 38018
www.hopepres.com • www.thestirring.net • http://joydeeanncarson.blogspot.com/
Artist's Statement:
A common thread ties together women throughout history and this cohesion has been the source of my inspiration. In a world where so many things are relative and in a society that focuses on individualism, I like to see how broader histories can still speak about present conditions. I am currently studying women from the Bible in my paintings by focusing on one moment of their story and examining how I can relate to it. People today deal with the same issues of abandonment, guilt, doubt, or insecurity and can look to historical figures that have led captivating lives for guidance.
Many of these women had been condemned by society because of their poverty, disease, gender or promiscuity, but He accepted them by caring for their personal needs and offering grace and healing to their hurting hearts. He stood up for a hopeless woman and reminded us to show compassion and give others a second chance. In a time when women were restricted by a patriarchal society, Jesus singled them out and used them as examples for the way we should live—the willingness to give to others even when we feel empty, the boldness to reach out of our isolation when we know we need help, and the understanding that it is okay to be vulnerable when we need to spill out everything we have been holding inside. They embody beauty in their surrender, courage, desperation, and vulnerability. — Joy Deeann Carson
Background on The Stirring Art Gallery:
The Stirring is a worship experience that blends music, art, culture, community and a message to provide a unique approach to discovering the Gospel. Using artistry and imagery as well as words to convey meaning, it’s a place where you can hear the message of God in familiar language.
Various works by local artists are currently on display at The Stirring Art Gallery, located inside Hope Church. Many of the paintings were created live on stage during The Stirring service. Each month, a different local artist volunteers to paint during the service. The completed painting(s) and several other selected works by the artist are then displayed in the gallery and available for purchase by contacting the artist.
The Stirring meets every Sunday at 5:30 p.m. at Hope Church at 8500 Walnut Grove Rd. in Cordova, Tennessee.
