Supporting Artists

Lately I have become an avid fan of the books, presentations, and paintings of the acclaimed and inspiring visual artist/author Mako Fujimura. Two principles he has introduced to me include the opportunity and responsibility of churches to support the efforts and even livelihoods of local artists. Being a lifelong artist who desires to serve my Creator using my gifts, these concepts immediately resonated with me; and as a minister of music at my local church, I look for concrete ways to make a positive impact upon fellow artists.

One faith-meets-art initiative I launched last year was hosting a local authors’ book fair at my church. I started by inviting church members who had authored books to participate. Then I expanded my reach by inviting others in my circle of friends and acquaintances that I knew were published authors. It felt refreshing to reconnect with fellow authors I have met along my journey and to invite them to my church for an event that ultimately honored and benefited them. We charged no fee to participate or to attend, and all authors were encouraged to sell their wares and keep 100% of their sales. Not even library book fairs do that.

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