Looking at Art with New Eyes
I recently read Discovering God Through the Arts by Terry Glaspey, and it opened my eyes to experiencing God through beauty and creativity. Though I didn’t visit a museum, I spent time with Monet’s Year at Giverny: Beyond Impressionism. His soft, peaceful landscapes calmed me and prompted me to spend time with God.
Some art featured in Discovering God connects directly to Bible stories, while other pieces do not—but both kinds helped me pause and reflect. Glaspey’s prompts encouraged me to examine the artwork carefully and consider how it pointed back to the gospel.
Michelangelo’s Prisoners: Awakening Slave spoke to me deeply. I saw myself in the unfinished figure—still being shaped, not yet whole. I sometimes feel trapped by fear. Social anxiety doesn’t always stop me, but it shadows new places I visit. I push through, but rarely without unease.
I not only observed other artists’ work through reading this book but also created my own artwork based on his prompts.
Drawing to See
I experimented with chalk pastels to create a quick mood piece above. Want to guess what feeling I was trying to show?
One activity in the book required drawing something from life, so I sketched flowers from a vase using colored pencils. I omitted the vase and instead added a background of soft yellow and blue—more imagined than real. It felt peaceful and playful simultaneously.
Poetry That Resonates
Of the poets Glaspey suggested, Mary Oliver’s Wild Geese spoke to me most powerfully. Perhaps it’s because she’s a woman, or perhaps it’s her style—like one lonely soul sharing her heart with another which is what the narrator does in this poem. I want to read more of her work.
As his prompt suggested, I wrote a poem as a prayer. I’d love to know what you think.
Life with the Lord
Lord, I feel Your warm embrace—
especially in times of trouble.
When flowers bloom, I’m blessed.
When darkness closes in, I draw nearer to You.
You’re my hiding place.
With You, I soar on wings like eagles.
Why don’t you write a poem as a prayer? I’d love to read it if you’re willing to share! God is everywhere, most definitely in nature.
Finding God in the Ordinary
Another idea from the book was to take a slow, intentional walk. I strolled through my neighborhood one early spring morning, noticing the flowering trees and a charming little water well. I felt thankful—for creation, for beauty, for the stillness.
I photographed the blossoms and tried to capture the water well from a creative angle. I also listened to “Holy as a Day is Spent” by Carrie Newcomer while reflecting on how God is present in daily tasks.
Even during something as routine as my stretching and strengthening exercises, I sensed Him reminding me that I’m caring for the body He gave me. Though I still get injured at times, I trust that these small steps protect me from greater harm.
A Transformative Experience
This book engages readers, especially if you take time to answer the questions and follow through with the prompts as I did. It may change how you view God, art, and nature. God flows through everything good, and Glaspey’s work helps us recognize His presence in beauty we might otherwise overlook.
If you’re curious about Discovering God Through the Arts, I recommend it for its thoughtful prompts, inspiring insights, and ability to help readers slow down and see God in new ways. If you want to check out my full review click here.