Why I Include Time With God in My Artistic Process
- porschiatolbert
- Dec 16, 2024
- 5 min read
BEHIND THE CANVAS | WITH PORSCHIA DANIELLE
Have you ever felt like your creativity flows best when you’re connected to a power greater than yourself? If so, then we have something in common.
My faith in God plays a major role in every aspect of my life — artistically, personally, and professionally, serving as both my foundation and my guide. It shapes my perspective, influences my decisions, and inspires the work I create.
My faith in God... shapes my perspective, influences my decisions, and inspires the work I create.
Whether I am developing a painting, navigating relationships, or pursuing my professional goals, my faith anchors my approach and reminds me to seek and reflect the love and beauty of God in everything I do.
The Connection Between Faith and Creativity
Creativity as a Gift
I see my creativity and artistic ability as a gift from God, and consider it to be a unique expression of His grace and design. This understanding compels me to use my talents in a way that reflects His beauty, peace, and presence in the world.
I see my creativity and artistic ability as a gift from God...
Regardless of the subject matter or technique used, I view each piece that I create as an opportunity to honor the Creator and inspire others to seek Him through His handiwork.
I didn’t always see things this way. There was a time when I let pride and arrogance take over my approach to creativity. I thought pretty highly of my own abilities and failed to recognize God as the true source of my talents.
Let’s just say, that mindset didn’t serve me well—but it taught me a valuable lesson I’ll never forget.
Now, my work isn’t just about creating something visually appealing to earn attention or praise. It’s about sharing a deeper sense of beauty, wonder, hope, and connection—rooted in the perspective of my faith.
Drawing Inspiration from Nature and Scripture
Isaiah 45:12 states, “I am the one who made the earth and created people to live on it. With my hands I stretched out the heavens. All the stars are at my command.” (NLT)
"I am the One who made the earth..." - Isaiah 45:12a (NLT)
In this verse, God is speaking through the prophet Isaiah to declare His sovereignty and authority over all creation.
From it we learn that God has made everything — all of Heaven and Earth. He made the entire universe and everything in it.
I find this deeply profound. Sometimes, I just sit quietly in nature, taking it all in and marveling at God’s incredible handiwork.
The intricate beauty of the trees, the grace of the birds, and the gentle rustle of the breeze are all captivating. The sun and moon, each with their own roles in the vast expanse of creation, are reminders of His intentional design.
The interconnectedness of the entire ecosystem is beyond comprehension, yet it all works together in perfect harmony, serving as a testament to God’s incredible creativity and wisdom.
And He didn’t stop there. God created every human being with a specific purpose and intention. He gave each of us gifts which He intends for us to use for His glory.
The Role of Reflection and Prayer in My Process
For these reasons, I prefer to begin each day in study and reflection, by reading God’s word and spending time with Him in prayer. This time with God is invaluable to me, and when I make the mistake of skipping it, my day inevitably feels unbalanced and out of sync.
Since God is the Creator of all things and people, I believe it is both wise and essential to seek Him for guidance in all things, and in understanding how to use the gifts and talents He has uniquely designed for me.
...it is both wise and essential to seek Him for guidance in all things...
Spending time with Him - the ultimate artist who carefully created and shaped us - gives me deeper insight into the purpose of the gifts He has entrusted to me.
As I turn to God for guidance, encouragement, and wisdom in every aspect of my life, He never fails to bless me in return. When I trust Him to guide my creative process, I find clarity and purpose in my work, and things just seem to flow.
The closer I draw to Him, the more inspired and creative I become. It’s as if His presence unlocks new depths of imagination and creative ability. Conversely, the farther I drift from Him, the more my creativity feels stifled and depleted, reminding me that He is the ultimate source of my talents and inspiration.
How This Practice Shapes My Art
My time with God allows me to create art that is both purposeful and deeply meaningful. Through prayer and reflection, I often discover layers of symbolism within my pieces - elements that emerge almost subconsciously during my creative process.
My time with God allows me to create art that is both purposeful and deeply meaningful.
These moments of connection with God bring clarity and profound insight that go beyond the new pieces I create. Since He knows the end from the beginning, He has even revealed meaning in works I completed years ago—long before I made daily reflection a regular part of my life.
It’s in these unexpected revelations that I learn life-changing lessons through my own work, reminding me that my creative journey is guided by a power far greater than myself.
...my creative journey is guided by a power far greater than myself.
Each of my pieces tells a unique story, filled with layers of meaning waiting to be uncovered. Some continue to reveal their depth to me over time, while others carry a clear message that always points back to God’s sovereignty and grace.
Encouragement for You
Whether you’re an artist or have never picked up a paintbrush, I encourage you to make space for moments with God in your daily life.
God is kind and loving, and spending time with Him—through prayer and His word—can deepen your understanding of His love for you. It’s a simple practice that can bring greater clarity, well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose.
God is kind and loving...
Do you spend time with God daily? If so, how does that intentional time with Him add to your life? If not, would you consider it?
I’d love to hear from you! Leave me a comment or send me an email at pdanielleartwork@gmail.com.
Closing Thoughts
I can personally attest that spending time with God has profoundly enriched both my art and my life, bringing deeper meaning and purpose to everything I create and experience.
Through regular moments of prayer, reflection, and seeking His guidance, I’ve found that my creative process becomes more intentional and inspired.
Not only has my art become a more powerful reflection of His beauty and truth, but my life, too, feels more aligned with His will, filled with peace, clarity, and a sense of direction.
Stay Connected And Inspired
If this post resonates with you, I invite you to explore my portfolio on my website www.pdanielleartwork.com, where you can find more insight into how my faith influences my work.
If you enjoyed this post, share it with a family member or friend who might find it inspiring or thought-provoking.
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See you in a couple of weeks - until then, happy holidays! Take care and stay inspired!
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