| The number of books published on art and theology has increased rapidly in recent years. However, few of these are written by practicing artists. An artist myself, my thesis addresses this neglected area of study in Practical Theology by providing an insider account of an art-ministry based on the creating and sharing of visual art. Adopting an intrinsic case study methodology, approached from within an interpretivist paradigm and from a practitioner perspective, this study focuses on the creation of a series of artworks for the sanctuary of a church in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and their subsequent reception by members of the church.;A theoretical framework woven from theology, qualitative research methods, creativity research, and neuroscience provide the interpretive tools needed to process data collected for both the creating and sharing components of the study. The thick descriptions obtained through qualitative research techniques applied to my art-ministry will provide the academic and greater church communities with valuable insights into an unusual ministry practice that could be replicated by other artists trying to unite their art and ministry practices.;Major findings from the study include the suitability of visual art for ecumenical discussion---the artwork provided a non-threatening meeting place for reflection and discussion that was respectful of difference and permitted deeper sharing of common ground. The study revealed art-ministry as a catalyst for creating and sharing stories as vehicles for spiritual development. The study supported the view that beauty in art is a pathway to experience of God, and exposed and responded to some of the problems an emphasis on beauty creates for an artist who positions her practice within the contemporary art community. The study exhibited the potential of visual art for stimulating contemplation (of the same general sort described by traditional spiritual/mystical communities). Finally, the study showed that misunderstandings and preconceptions of art identified throughout suggest that art ministry will flourish only if it is coupled with some form of art education. |
