Aspiring Christian artist
motivated by his faith
By Brian Koonce
Staff Writer
December 27, 2005
JEFFERSON CITY – It doesn’t matter whether life imitates art or art imitates life, Josh Crawford’s life and art is most certainly focused upon his Savior.
Crawford, who has worked as a graphic arts intern for the Missouri Baptist Convention (MBC) as well as part-time on the maintenance team at the Baptist Building, recently displayed a collection of his art for his senior art show at a Lincoln University gallery. The show ran from Nov. 10-18 and was dominated by images of Christ.
“My talent was given by God, so what better use for it than to glorify Him?” Crawford said.
A sampling of his work taken from his four years at Lincoln, the pieces ranged from abstract and realistic paintings to electronically produced prints, pottery and sculpture, the vast majority depicting Jesus’ crucifixion.
“I try to do a good balance of styles, but I enjoy realism more because I feel like more people ‘get it,’” he said.
The name of the show made his intent obvious. “Through the Eyes of Heaven” was based on 2 Corinthians 4:18, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen but what is unseen.” Though many different types of art can be “seen,” Crawford said he hopes people will understand the message that is “unseen.”
Ranging from a large painting to tiny sculpted forms, some of the art’s meanings require a little thinking to be appreciated.
Crawford graduated from Lincoln earlier this month with a bachelor’s degree in art, and said he hopes to be able to continue doing graphic arts with the MBC. While working with the MBC, he has helped design several promotional posters and other projects.
“If God opens the door, I’m willing,” he said. “With my graphics and art, I feel like I really am doing something for the Kingdom.”