BOOK REVIEW
Creativity in the Church
By Drew Wilson
So many churches struggle to to value, enjoy and invest in art and design.
"There must be a reason why the creative representation of the church is so poor in today’s time."
Drew Wilson argues that church designers feel hindered by “stagnant church culture”, “too many opinions” or feeling pressure to “copy what another big church does”. Other church members can struggle with “a lack of understanding” of the necessity of the visual arts. This book is a call for churches to start taking creativity seriously.
"A piece of art, or a design, or a song works as a means of communication. From that communication, an emotion, a call to action, or simply a thought might come to people in ways you didn’t expect."
Creativity the Church, does what many other books on the subject fail to do, and that is explicitly include graphic design among other art forms. He even dedicates a whole chapter to explaining graphic design principles and another to exploring the common graphics types churches use. This book is therefore very accessible for those just getting started in graphic design.
"When someone sees a piece of art, they get a feeling. And if that feeling is strong enough, they will be moved to respond in some way."
One particularly interesting chapter lists various ways your church could incorporate different art forms in your ministry. How could your church include paintings, sketches or pottery in ways that enrich your church life or that reach out to the lost?
"I think our mission is to further fill the digital space with beauty that points people to Christ."
If you’re a church wanting some practical ways to thrive creatively, this gives you a great starting point. This is a book full of practical advice both for church leaders and church designers and artists.
Abby Chilton
Graphic Designer at Greater Worth
The Church Graphic Design Training Programme
Equipping church volunteers and staff members with practical skills to create designs which share your message beautifully.
- 16 detailed video lessons
- Church-specific practice project briefs
- Access for 1 year