So the second purpose to the mural was to give the congregation at Lincoln Berean Church the opportunity to watch the unfolding of three large paintings. Often people do not see artists in process and it is easy to assume art just magically appears. By working in the coffee shop at the church in full public view, people were able to see the mural change week to week. It was also humbling as the leader, when it became apparent that the public would not only see the progress but our mistakes would be laid bare also, especially if they couldn't be fixed until the following week. This was a good practice in vulnerability as an artist. One lady in particular would make it a point to come up to the second floor coffee shop weekly to see the progress.
And the final purpose was to gather artists together to work on a project in community. As I mentioned a team of 10 artists worked on this over a two month period of time. Many stories, questions, challenges, and cups of coffee were shared while working on this mural. I know I am closer to these artists than before this project.
I am thankful for the faithfulness of the team from conception of the images on the walls to the paintings and vignette work done by individuals. I'm also thankful for the man who worked so hard to create all 17 canvas panels for us for the paintings. Without their help and encouragement it wouldn't have come together and been completed. I'm thankful the for the talented group of people I work with week in and week out to serve our church and community. I'm thankful for their constant prayers as the months in which we worked on this I faced daily physical pain and other struggles. I am thankful for the opportunity to gather in community with one another and build relationships. They are deeper now than before. SO THANK YOU. What an amazing journey.