In this episode of The Artistic Vision, Lanta Davis joins us to answer the question: can images shape belief? We dive into the role of the imagination in transforming our spiritual lives. Lanta discusses practical ways we exercise our imagination and expand our vision. Discover how images and stories help us see God’s beauty, awaken creativity, and renew our sense of wonder in the world.

If you’re a Christian artist, creative, or storyteller, this conversation will inspire you to see your imagination as a sacred gift — one that can deepen your faith and sense of purpose. Join us as we explore the spiritual power of creativity and learn how to live with a richer, more intentional vision of life.

Lanta Davis teaches Rhetoric and the Sacramental Imagination, What Is Beauty?, and Great Texts for the JWHC. She believes education is learning—over and over—the gift of wonder. Both outside and inside the classroom, she aims to help others see the world for the wild, wonderful, strange thing that it is.

Her book, Becoming by Beholding, considers the role of the imagination in spiritual and character formation. How do we become the person we are called to become? How do we align our emotions with our beliefs? How might beauty help persuade the heart to do what we ought to do?

She has written for publications such as Christianity Today, Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic, Plough, Parabola, Christian Century, Christ and Pop Culture, Christian Scholar’s Review, International Journal for Christianity and Education, Religions, and Renascence.

Official website: lantadavis.com
Buy Becoming By Beholding HERE

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In this episode of "Artistic Vision," presented by Creo Arts, we explore a variety of creative projects sponsored through their grant process. Recorded on location in Wilmore, Kentucky, during the annual retreat, this episode offers a glimpse into the collaborative network that Creo Arts fosters. From singer-songwriters to visual artists, discover how these projects come to life and learn about the open application process for future grants. Tune in to be inspired by the artistic fellowship and innovation that Creo Arts supports.

https://www.creoarts.org/our-projects

Application Deadline: November 26, 2025

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https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision podcast, hosts Gary and Alex talk with Robert Balfour, a priest, woodworker, and founder of the Old School Makerspace in San Antonio, Texas. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and art, showing how creativity can become a unique form of ministry. Robert shares his personal story of moving from a practical, no-nonsense upbringing to discovering the transformative power of beauty and craftsmanship. Through woodworking, he found not only a personal spiritual practice but also a way to foster collaboration, creativity, and growth within his church and local community. Listeners will discover how a makerspace can serve as an expression of faith, bringing people together to create, connect, and be transformed. This episode is perfect for Christian artists, church leaders, and creatives seeking inspiration on how art and craftsmanship can deepen both faith and community life.

oldschoolmakerspace.com

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https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, we talk with Danielle Gudgel from Deidox, a producer of short films that document real-life stories of faith in action. Danielle shares her inspiring journey of working in the documentary film world alongside her husband, Brent, using powerful storytelling to reveal how God is at work in the world. On this episode we dive into the unique challenges of life with an artist and the role of authenticity in art. If you’re an artist, filmmaker, or believer passionate about the intersection of theology and creativity, this episode will encourage and inspire you.

www.deidox.org

Free Burma Rangers Trailer

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, we welcome Matthew Aughtry, filmmaker, priest, and professor at Baylor University’s Truett Seminary. Together, we explore the transformative power of film and storytelling to help us see the world with fresh eyes. Drawing from C.S. Lewis’s idea of “watchful dragons,” Matthew shares how movies can break through our defenses and awaken deeper imagination. We discuss why creative risks are vital for artistic growth and why artists must resist the temptation to remain stuck in cynicism or settle for staying safe. Matthew also offers insight into how to watch a film with greater depth, showing how narrative structure shapes our appreciation of stories. This inspiring conversation will challenge you to embrace the beauty of cinema, pursue artistic courage, and recover the wonder of seeing the world anew through film, faith, and creativity.

Rev. Matthew Aughtry serves as the Acting Director of the Anglican/Episcopal House at Truett Seminary. He is a priest in The Anglican Church in North America, and a filmmaker. He serve as an adjunct professor within Baylor’s Film and Digital Media Department.

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

In this episode of The Artistic Vision, Gary and Alex sit down with acclaimed artist Josh Tiessen to explore the intersection of art, faith, and ecology. From his early inspirations in Russia to his current work as a fine artist, Josh shares his journey of creating hyper-realistic paintings infused with Christian symbolism and ecological themes. Join us for an inspiring conversation about art with purpose, the role of symbolism, and the importance of excellence in creative expression. #ArtisticVision #JoshThiessen #ArtWithPurpose

Official website: https://www.joshtiessen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshtiessen/
X / Twitter: https://x.com/joshtiessen
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/joshtiessen/
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/joshtiessen

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https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Charles Howell is an Outlaw Country musician, turned architect, and now, theologian. Today, Howell introduces us to the theological aesthetics of Eberhard Jüngel. We also dive into the rebellious world of Outlaw Country Music which leads us to its unexpected intersections with Theological Play. In this episode, we unravel the stories behind the music that defies norms and the spiritual narratives that challenge our perceptions.

C. M. Howell worked in architecture before receiving his PhD in theology from the University of St. Andrews.

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

Dr. Will Revere joins the artistic vision today to, among other things, introduce us to the medieval allegorical poem, Piers Plowman. This beautiful poem illustrates the way art uses symbolism to not only represent culture, but also challenge it. Today we dive into the rich tapestry of medieval literature as we explore the profound role of allegory and symbolism. Discover how these literary devices shaped narratives, conveyed complex ideas, and reflected the cultural and spiritual landscapes of the time. Join us for an enlightening journey through the stories and symbols that continue to resonate today.

About Dr. Revere (Professor of English, University of North Caroline, Asheville):

"I research and write about medieval English literature and culture, and the reception of medieval literary traditions in early modernity and beyond. I’m particularly interested in the late fourteenth-century visionary poem Piers Plowman and its afterlife through the English Reformations of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. I’m also broadly interested in the intersections of literature and philosophy (particularly the philosophy of action, virtue ethics, ordinary language philosophy, and hermeneutics), medieval and early modern religious cultures and theological traditions, the history of drama and dramatic theory to the present, the intellectual and social history of work, classical literature and reception, and agrarian/peasant studies. My current book project, Hidden Virtues, explores the imaginative life of virtues of individual judgment and mutual recognition across a range of reformist writing from the late fourteenth century to the late seventeenth century in England. I’ve also begun a new project on “medieval futures,” which puts medieval literature in conversation with some contemporary Anglophone speculative fiction."

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Buy the Artistic Vision book here!
https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/
https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1