Scissortail Art Center focus
23 July 2010 3 Comments
The focus of the Scissortail Art Center plan is on the plastic arts. The reasoning behind this, I believe, is sound. The church (both as an organization and as individuals) has given more attention to music, drama and literature over the past couple centuries than to painting and sculpture. That’s not to say that the attention was adequate or even appropriate in the way it was doled out, but the plastic arts are lagging when it comes to proper appreciation in the Christian context.
Regardless, the long-term idea for the Art Center does incorporate literature and music, at least in theory. Recently I’ve wondered if the focus should be opened up to all of these arts (drama just doesn’t fit into the scheme of the retreat in my head, no offense to our friendly thespians) right away.
This may, practically speaking, be advantageous financially. It may work towards soliciting more applications and interest early on (assuming this is needed). Hmmm . . .
I have recently become aware of Art House America , a blog about the endeavors of Andi Ashworth & Charlie Peacock. Based in a repurposed church building in Nashville, Art House “was founded with the vision of nurturing creative artists and anyone looking to explore an artful, faithful life.” I know they pattern themselves after Schaeffer’s Labri. However, it appears that their focus is primarily musical, which is appropriate for the Nashville area.
You may get some ideas from Art House America. They have been active in this for a number of years.
Sorry about the link. http://www.arthouseamerica.com
I think a focus on painting / drawing and the visual fine arts can definitely work. Unless it will be a non-profit ministry, you would need a way to generate income from around the world on an annual basis to keep things going. That would mean offering things of value that are available on location at the site as well as offering things of value available worldwide through the site. For example if you had Thomas Kincaid come in to give a lecture; local Artists would pay to see him in person, international artists would also pay to watch a web-based simulcast via the internet and during the event you can also sell his work through your website and on location. Everybody wins! : ).