. . . I often wonder if my place isn’t as much that of a motivator as an artist too. The problem with this is lies in that I myself crave more instruction/encouragement from other fine artists and not just an interested part — as grateful as I am, and I am, for any interested party.

Thus, I’m trying hard to create an appropriate discipline in my own work.

Though I still hope (and plan) to make more time for myself in my studio!”

Thanks for your entry about Mako. He is a huge inspiration to all though let’s look to him as a fellow artist of faith on the journey, a little further ahead. We all have our creative paths to make. For most of my life I was the walking, talking evangelical. Went to a Christian college and seminary, married a pastor, became a missions mobilizer and then finished my MFA. I certainly don’t want to doubt your choices to “make sacrifices” for the kingdom of God, but you have to choose. Real art-making takes focus, discipline and hours of investment…in the studio. And that is as spiritual an activity as more visible expressions of “ministry.” Start carving out hours for yourself and protect your artistic development time, or else you will stay with art as a hobby.