The Thriving Christian Artist

Send us a textFoundations Course just $27: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/foundationsCreated to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/artmentorBooks for Christian Artists: https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/resourcesUncleMatt AI: https://www.unclematt.ai Thriving Christian Artist Newsletter: https://thrive.matttommeymentoring.com/tca-weekly-yt 5 Simple Steps to Create Art with the Holy Spirithttps://youtu.be/27AyW_sVSeEAre you carrying the burden of making your art "Christian enough"? Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Bach, and Vermeer never worried about this—and in this video, I'll show you why you shouldn't either.Most Christian artists today carry two crushing yokes: the pressure to make their art evangelistic and the pressure to make it financially successful. These burdens steal your joy, block the Holy Spirit, and distort the very purpose of creativity.Jesus said, "Take my yoke upon you... For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:2

Send us a textWhat if your most inspired work begins the moment you stop trying to force it? We explore a simple, relational process for creating with the Holy Spirit—one that replaces pressure with presence, anxiety with trust, and burnout with sustainable, joyful flow.We start by naming the trap many creative believers fall into: overcomplicating the process and second-guessing every nudge. From there, we share a practical framework built on five pillars. First, create by faith, not by feelings—show up before inspiration arrives and let trust unlock momentum. Next, prepare your heart by assuming connection; God’s already with you, so the studio becomes a sacred space rather than a performance stage. Then, let worship set the atmosphere. Music, gratitude, and prayer soften the heart and increase awareness so you can hear and respond with freedom.The turning point comes with learning to notice what God highlights. Instead of waiting for step-by-step instructions, pay attention to textures, colors, materials,

Send us a textWhat if the first person filled with God’s Spirit wasn’t a priest or a prophet—but an artist? We open Scripture and discover a remarkable blueprint in Bezalel’s story, then connect it to the quiet, unmistakable ways the Holy Spirit awakens creative calling today. If you’ve felt a steady tug to make, a rush of ideas, or a deep peace when you create, this conversation gives language and courage for that journey.We explore five clear signs of a Spirit-led art calling. First, being called by name—identity awakening before confidence. Second, being filled with the Spirit not just for ministry roles but for wisdom, understanding, and craftsmanship. Third, the heart-stirring that invites you to show up in the studio without pressure. Fourth, the power of community confirmation, where mentors, friends, and audiences echo what God is doing and even resource the work. Finally, assignment: how creativity becomes a place where heaven meets earth, just as Bezalel’s work formed the tabernacle for his generati

Send us a textBefore the crowds and miracles, there was a workshop. We dive into the overlooked years of Jesus’ life and uncover five surprising lessons from His time as an artisan—insights that can transform your creative process, your sense of calling, and your daily life in the marketplace.We explore how formation happens through process: patience, repetition, and the humility to start again. We talk about why learning people—presence, empathy, and emotional intelligence—matters as much as technique. We unpack how beauty trains the soul to see what others miss, and how structure and integrity give our work the strength to carry vision. Then we reframe hiddenness as sacred: most of Jesus’ life was offstage, and those years were not wasted. They built a resilient inner life that could hold a public assignment.Along the way, we offer practical applications you can use right now. Treat your studio like a sanctuary where worship and craft meet. Ask God what He’s forming in you through your current season. Slow

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Nancy Thygesen, a cold wax and oil painter whose atmospheric landscapes and new ventures into equine art reflect a deep connection with God’s creation. From the rugged beauty of British Columbia to her experiences as an art therapist, Nancy shares how her creative journey has been intertwined with personal healing, spiritual growth, and a desire to reveal God’s presence through her work.We talk about the courage it takes to evolve artistically, the balance between sharing your faith and letting it speak naturally through your art, and the beauty of hearing God’s voice in nature. Nancy’s story is a powerful reminder that creativity can be a sacred pathway to both personal restoration and inspiring others.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How God’s creation inspires and shapes Nancy’s artThe transition from encaustic and acrylic to cold wax and oil paintingInsights from her background in art therapy and personal healingFinding balance in expressing faith through vi

Send us a textFeeling stuck at the canvas, camera, or keyboard doesn’t mean your gift is gone. It often means you’ve been drinking from a cracked cistern—striving without connection, waiting on feelings to lead, or letting your imagination run dry. In this heartfelt, practical conversation, we walk through three proven keys that help artists break through creative block and keep it from returning: reconnecting with Jesus as the living source of creativity, creating by faith instead of mood, and actively cultivating inspiration you can steward over time.We start by resetting the core belief: the God of creativity isn’t distant; His Spirit lives within you. You’ll learn a simple reset prayer to trade panic for peace, ways to refresh your studio atmosphere with worship and Scripture, and how renewing your mind turns off the inner critic and the enemy’s accusations. Then we move to practice. When you don’t feel it, you can still show up: low‑stakes play, sketchbook sessions, color mixing, and musical noodling pri

Send us a textIn this episode, I talk with Pamela Loewen, a gifted textile artist and gallery owner whose work blends modern design with timeless craftsmanship. From contemporary art quilting that breaks free from “grandma’s quilt” stereotypes to running a vibrant gallery space, Pamela has embraced creativity as both a personal calling and a ministry.Her journey weaves together deep faith, innovative artistry, and a commitment to fostering beauty in her community. We explore how she discovered her unique creative voice, the courage it takes to step beyond tradition, and the incredible ways God is using her art and gallery to inspire others.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Pamela moved from traditional quilting into bold, contemporary designThe spiritual and creative lessons learned from opening a galleryWhy integrating faith with art leads to deeper impactThe challenges and rewards of pursuing a unique artistic pathHow to cultivate a life that nurtures both creativity and ministry

Send us a textWhat if the very first way God introduces himself sets the tone for your entire creative life? We open Genesis and meet a Creator at work, and that single lens reshapes how we read Scripture, how we show up in the studio, and how we handle the mess between vision and completion. Instead of treating creativity as a side hobby, we trace how every later title—redeemer, king, shepherd—flows from a creative heart that brings form out of chaos and beauty out of dust.We walk through three anchors that steady artists in real time. First, your story is God’s artwork. Isaiah’s potter and clay and Paul’s assurance in Philippians reframe the “messy middle” as part of the masterpiece, not proof of failure. Second, you were made to co-create. Ephesians 2:10 calls you God’s poema, crafted for good works prepared in advance, and we lay out practical ways to invite the Holy Spirit into theme, process, and decision-making so your work resonates rather than strains. Third, create from love, not for love. Zephaniah

Send us a textIn this inspiring conversation, I sit down with my longtime friend Karen DeLoach—a multi-disciplinary artist, teacher, filmmaker, and creativity specialist who has spent decades championing the role of the arts in culture and the Kingdom. From her early days in sculpture and ceramics to her passion for painting and equipping others to express Holy Spirit inspiration, Karen’s story is a rich tapestry of creative calling and resilience.We explore the importance of engaging the right brain in our creative and spiritual lives, the challenges artists face in a culture that often undervalues beauty, and the freedom that comes when you step back into dreams others once dismissed.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why activating your right brain is key to creativity and Kingdom impactHow Karen overcame early discouragement to embrace painting againThe role of beauty in the arts and why it matters for God’s purposesPractical ways to cultivate Holy Spirit-inspired creativityEncouragement for artists of all

Send us a textWhat if your studio felt less like a grind and more like a sanctuary—where ideas arrive with ease, your hands stay light, and joy returns to the work? We walk you through a simple, repeatable flow for co-creating art with God that turns pressure into partnership and fear into freedom.We start with intimacy and the bold posture of assuming connection with the Holy Spirit. From there, we show how revelation naturally follows—through scripture, quiet impressions, colors, and emotions—and why a spirit-led sketchbook becomes your best tool for stewarding ideas. Then comes agreement: the decisive yes that silences resistance and opens a path through creative block. You’ll learn how to trade self-judgment for trust and move with the grace that arrives with each new nudge.Response is where presence meets craft. We explore what it means to be filled and skilled: curating a beautiful, ordered studio; developing technique; and staying attentive while you work so excellence grows without perfectionism. Fina

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, I sit down with my friend Phil Bob Borman—a premier Western artist celebrated for his breathtaking skyscapes and deep love for both art and the Lord. From his early days as a sculptor and cowboy to becoming one of the country’s most recognized Western painters, Phil Bob’s story is one of following God’s leading through unexpected transitions.We talk about the unique aesthetic of Western art, the discipline required to master large-scale skyscapes, and how Phil Bob has seen God’s hand guiding his creative journey. His humility, humor, and heart for excellence make this conversation one that will inspire any artist to keep pursuing the work they’re called to create.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Phil Bob transitioned from sculpting to large-scale skyscape paintingThe influence of Western culture and tradition on his workWhy following God’s direction can lead to unexpected creative successLessons from years of honing a disti

Send us a textWhat if you’re not behind at all—but right on time for what you were made to carry? We take a hard look at slow seasons and flip the script: delay isn’t punishment, it’s purposeful formation. Through real stories, scripture, and practical reflection, we explore four hidden purposes behind God’s timing that build resilient, joy-filled creative lives.First, we talk about capacity. Strength comes before spotlight, and endurance widens the heart to hold influence, relationships, and resources without cracking under pressure. James 1 becomes a lens for growth that happens on the inside long before it shows on the outside. Then we sit with protection. Not every open door is meant for you. Some “no’s” are shields in disguise, sparing you from opportunities that look right but would fracture your focus or outpace your maturity.Next, we dive into alignment. When work becomes worship, striving gives way to flow. We share the moment everything shifted—repenting of copycat strategies and returning to the sp

Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode of The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, I talk with multi-talented creative Karen Bulbuk, whose artistic journey has spanned fine art, graphic design, music, photography, and more. From her small-town Massachusetts roots to her current home in Michigan, Karen shares how her creativity has been a constant companion—even during seasons of caregiving, transition, and uncertainty.We discuss the unique challenges of pursuing art alongside other life responsibilities, the powerful ways God has spoken to her about the purpose of her art, and how she’s learned to see creativity as a language for communicating His truth. Karen’s story will encourage any artist who’s felt “on the sidelines” to step back into their calling with renewed passion and vision.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How a diverse creative background can enrich your artistic voiceLessons from blending art with life’s changing seasonsWhy creativity is a language for communicating God’s truthOvercoming discour

Send us a textWhat if your studio felt like worship instead of a grind? We explore five grounded, practical ways to honor God with your creativity—starting with gratitude, moving into faithful studio rhythms, inviting the Holy Spirit into your process, growing in artistic excellence, and learning to create from rest. Rather than chasing likes, sales, or approval, we shift the focus to peace, purpose, and partnership with God.We begin by anchoring identity in the truth that creativity is God’s idea and a good gift. From there, we talk about showing up consistently and dedicating a simple, sacred space—whether it’s a full studio or a corner table—as an act of faithfulness. We unpack what it looks like to co-create with the Holy Spirit, recognizing those moments of flow as signs of relationship, not randomness. You’ll hear why “filled and skilled” is a powerful pairing for artists, how excellence expands your creative vocabulary, and why skill actually births freedom. Scripture threads through the conversation—G

Send us a textIn this engaging episode of The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, I talk with multi-talented Canadian creative Rob Dinwoodie—a visual artist, musician, and entrepreneur whose life blends artistry, faith, and purpose. From his roots in British Columbia to his work as a performer and creator, Rob shares how he’s embraced creativity as a lifelong pursuit without letting the pressure of monetization steal the joy.We discuss the value of formative years spent honing your craft, the freedom that comes from knowing your identity in Christ, and the importance of maintaining a playful, authentic spirit in your work. Whether through his art, music, or community presence, Rob’s story is a reminder that creativity flows best when it’s rooted in purpose and joy.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why embracing the process matters more than rushing to monetize your artHow to keep joy and authenticity at the center of your creative lifeThe value of freedom and play in artistic expressionLessons from combining m

Send us a textWhat if your creative practice is meant to be a doorway where heaven meets earth? We dig into the supernatural calling of artists and why creativity isn’t a side note—it’s central to how the Kingdom moves. Drawing from Genesis, John, Ephesians, and the pattern of Bezalel in Exodus, I make the case that you were designed to carry God’s life and light into your studio, your market, and the moments where viewers unexpectedly encounter grace through your work.I share a formative gallery story where a simple basket became a message of comfort, reminding us that the Holy Spirit can speak beyond our skill or intention. From there, we unpack five anchors: creativity is God’s idea; all creativity comes from Him; God can use any artist yet invites us to partner; art carries a prophetic role that can comfort and confront; and we’re called to co-create with God, not perform for Him. This isn’t about trends or chasing “spiritual” labels—it’s about becoming both filled with the Spirit and skilled in craft, tr

Send us a textIn this joyful and inspiring episode of The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, I talk with long-time friend and mentoring program member Denise Clark Weston. A multi-talented creative with deep family roots in the arts, Denise shares her story of growing up surrounded by creativity, navigating seasons of self-doubt, and discovering her confidence and artistic voice through persistence and faith.From her Pacific Northwest studio, Denise paints stunning oil landscapes that reflect both the beauty of nature and the resilience of a heart rooted in God’s goodness. In our conversation, she opens up about her heritage, her journey of overcoming insecurity, and the joy she finds in continually exploring new creative paths.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How growing up in a creative family shaped Denise’s artistryOvercoming self-doubt and finding confidence in God’s designWhy trying different art forms can strengthen your skillsThe joy of painting landscapes that connect with the viewer’s heartEmbracin

Send us a textFeeling called to create but unsure of the path ahead? We explore the tension every faith-filled artist knows: trusting God’s plan when the studio feels quiet and the roadmap isn’t obvious. From the first spark of calling to the slow, stretching seasons where nothing seems to move, we unpack why hiddenness isn’t failure—it’s formation—and how to keep showing up with peace, clarity, and courage.Matt shares three anchors that reframe the journey. First, your creativity is not random; it’s assignment—Ephesians 2:10 names you God’s poema, designed to reveal His heart through your work. Second, hidden seasons still count; Scripture shows a pattern of preparation before platform, where God loosens our grip on applause and strengthens our ear for His voice. Third, faithfulness comes before fruitfulness; the Kingdom order shifts our metrics from speed and sales to obedience and steady craft, trusting God with timing and reach.To put this into practice, we walk through the Core Four Focus Framework—a dai

Send us a textIn this powerful and Spirit-led conversation, I talk with Barbados-based artist Sherridean Carmichael about pursuing your creative calling with bold faith, overcoming resistance, and stepping fully into the identity God has already given you. From her years as a top educator to her transformative work as a creative leader, Sherridean carries a message of breakthrough and Kingdom alignment that will inspire any artist feeling stuck or forgotten.We explore how God uses challenges to shape us, how to recognize and reject the lies of lack and fear, and how walking in your true inheritance as a child of God releases creative freedom and impact.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to overcome the enemy’s resistance to your callingWhy your creative inheritance is already yours in ChristMoving from striving to flowing in God’s provisionRecognizing and walking in your Kingdom authorityEncouraging other artists through your personal testimony

Send us a textWhat if the most powerful studio you own is the one behind your eyes? As artists, our imaginations are vivid and fast—capable of painting hope or projecting fear in seconds. Today we unpack a simple, repeatable way to turn worry into worship by pointing that creative engine toward God’s promises instead of worst-case stories.We dig into why fear and faith run on the same internal mechanism and how agreement shapes outcomes: see it, agree with it, speak it, and step into it. With Philippians 4 as our anchor, we talk about holy contentment that frees you from being ruled by circumstances without dimming ambition or vision. You’ll learn a practical “thoughts captive” checkpoint—does this sound like Jesus?—and a step-by-step reset to declare Scripture, visualize best-case scenarios rooted in God’s nature, and let peace take the steering wheel. We also name the subtle ways comparison and old wounds hijack imagination, then reclaim your God-given uniqueness through 1 Corinthians 12:18 so your “differe