This is to all my fellow World Racers and Christian Artists in general. I know sometimes it is hard to know how to use our talents for the kingdom, but over this past year I have learned so many ways to share art and creativity with people, so I wanted to share them with you!
1. The Obvious: Murals
Murals create new atmospheres in spaces that were once not as inviting.
They can also help advertise and beautify a school:
2. Coloring Pages and Pre-school Art
You know the kids in Africa and Asia and the rest of the world don’t always have access to school supplies such as coloring books. I created some simple ones for them and created an alphabet set for the kids in Swaziland. Look for opportunities and listen to locals about what may be needed. And always let people know what you can do!
3. Make something fun as a gift for your host.
I am all about honoring your host with gifts of creativity. I have tried to do something for every host this year.
4. Graphic Design
I had many opportunities to use my photoshop touch on my tablet to create logos, fliers, t-shirt designs, prayer cards, etc. Many people don’t have access to the programs or the money to pay a professional to do their graphic design work. And if you know web design at all, even better!
5. Worship
You can use art, dance, and skits in worship. I got a few girls together and we created 3 different pieces each of God’s Character. Then I put them all together to create a fuller view of who God is. I also created a Declarations page for our squad to each individually declare something for the new year. We had a ceremony just before using paper chains to demonstrate what we were breaking free from.
6. Team Time
I played telephone Pictionary with my team, which is a fun game using art. I also had teammates who played theatre games with us. Be creative.
7. Prayer
We like to do “listening prayer.” Basically, it is sitting down before God and asking if He has anything for a certain person or situation. I have done this in a way that you had to draw or write what you heard. Once, I made a puzzle and handed out the blank pieces, then everyone did listening prayer for a few days and we brought them back and put them together. The we drew numbers to see who got what. It was cool to look at them and for some people to get the one they expected to get.
8. Arts Classes
I was able to teach my students how to use my DSLR Camera in Nepal for computer class. I also taught them how to play a few chords on my ukulele even though I was new to it myself. They loved it and I believe that even though most of them will probably never have the opportunity to buy one themselves, I believe that it helps to expand their horizons and enjoy creativity. Who knows, maybe they will be able to own one in the future. Never limit your gifts by skill level. Share them.
9. Pictionary
When we taught English in Thailand we used Pictionary as a fun way to involve the children. I would draw a picture on the board and the two teams would guess what it was in English. We also had times where the kids would draw.
10. Encouraging Notes
There is not much more encouraging than a note written from a team mate telling you why they love you and how they see Jesus in you. Making them pretty is even better!
11. Spruce Up The Place
Notice the things you can do that aren’t necessarily being asked of you. See that door that needs paint? A map that needs redrawn? New bathroom signs painted. Others may not realize these things need done until after you do them. Seize the opportunity.
There are many more ways than these including making videos and such, but I will leave it up to you to figure out how to bless the world with your creativity!
Much Love,
Saraya
