The ability to create is one of the gifts that God gave us. It is part of the package of gifts that we receive because we are made in God's image. Again and again, God reveals that he delights in creating. Just think of the many different types of flowers, for example. God didn't have to create so many varieties, but he did (and does) because he delights in making things new. He never tires of creating and he invites us to participate in his own creative ability, so that we can add to the beauty of the world as well as reveal and remind others of the light and beauty of God.
coloring
One of the easiest ways to create something new is to simply color in a picture. We are currently in the midst of a renaissance of coloring -just think of how many new coloring books there are now - especially for adults! Below are some fun Catholic coloring pages from Catholic Sprouts. The "Catholic ABCs" are on the left, and the "Virtues of the Rosary" booklet is on the right.
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Meditative Art
Another easy draw-and-color technique has also appeared lately. This technique is called "Meditative Art" (or sometimes Zentangle and Zendoodle). Meditative Art invites us to treat drawing and coloring as a simple, meditative practice instead of a complicated artistic endeavor. It can be a form of reflecting and being calm and focused. Meditative Art has been found to be especially useful in reducing anxiety and stress, even in children, since it uses simple strokes repeated over and over.
As Catholics, we have a long history of meditative, contemplative prayer. We know that we are called to turn all things to prayer, into an offering to God. This summer, try a new technique of praying and creating by combining the calming, intentional practices of Meditative Art with symbols of our faith and prayers as you create. Start by practicing some simple forms with the videos below, then branch out to make your own Art Prayers using the pdfs below.
As Catholics, we have a long history of meditative, contemplative prayer. We know that we are called to turn all things to prayer, into an offering to God. This summer, try a new technique of praying and creating by combining the calming, intentional practices of Meditative Art with symbols of our faith and prayers as you create. Start by practicing some simple forms with the videos below, then branch out to make your own Art Prayers using the pdfs below.
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decorate
Do you have a Home Altar or Family Prayer Space set up in your house? If not, this is the perfect time to create one. The image below takes you to a link on Catholic Icing, and gives some fun and simple ideas for a home prayer space.
