ART & INSPIRATION BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

From the beginning of time, art has been a source of enjoyment, means of expression and part of humanity’s soul.  The painting artist may swing his brush through the air and create a masterpiece or nothing more than color on canvas, but whatever the results, it has impact.  A dancer spins flawlessly across a stage, caressing every note of music with each step.  A musician practices every day as notes pour from his instrument of choice and the center of his heart. An actor delivers a soliloquy and embraces the attention of his audience – while either moving or inciting. The sculptor takes a piece of wood or stone and carves life into the lifeless.  The poet weaves stories into beautiful verses, yet often they are never seen.  For a moment, an artist becomes recognized, but it isn’t usually until after his demise that his talent is monetarily realized.  Thus, the term – starving artist.

In ancient days, the art scrawled on the walls of caves, became a means of communication.  As time progressed, pottery was crafted for practical purposes.  Again, the clock ticked away, and art became more a means of expression. During the European Renaissance, art became a way to edify God.  The church was the greatest patron of the arts as they decorated their sanctuaries with amazing sculptures and frescos depicting the life of the saints, Jesus, Mary and God.

Art wore different faces down through the ages.  Plays and movies tend to follow the times and interests of the masses.  Sometimes they become an escape to a fantastical place or an unknown world.  Music can also reflect the times, yet eventually everything seems to repeat itself.  What goes around often comes around, with a different spin to it. The use of artificial intelligence may create a new form of art, but there always needs to be an artist behind the scenes to come up with the idea and direction.

As we celebrate this special day, honoring artists, I’ve included a photo of my husband – artist, Paul Boecher. He passed away almost two years ago. The treasure trove of art he left through his painting, sculpting in wood and stone, teaching his craft to others and using his talent to edify God, is his legacy. It has kept me positive during this time of mourning, but nothing can actually take his place. The faith we shared will keep us bonded for eternity.

THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ARTISTS AND THE BEAUTY THEY BRING TO LIFE.