56. The Primary Purpose of Art is to Promote Human Connection

THE STORYTELLER’S MISSION WITH ZENA DELL LOWE

EPISODE 56 – The Primary Purpose of Art is to Promote Human Connection

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EPISODE DESCRIPTION – For the last several weeks, we have been analyzing the five primary keynotes or principles of godly storytelling: 

1.    A commitment to truth telling

2.    A commitment to do no harm

3.    Promoting involvement rather than voyeurism

4.    Portraying good and evil accurately

5.    The possibility of redemption.

Today, in light of these keynotes, Zena asks, what is the primary purpose of our art? She goes on to argue that it is the same in art as it is in real life: Life is about connection. Life is about relationship. None of it matters outside of relationship. God has designed us to be in relationship, with Him first, and with others, second. It is our primary condition, our primary need, and our primary struggle, because at our core, we are dying, longing for intimate connection. 

Zena goes on to say that anything that constitutes a breach of intimacy, anything that we create that prevents true connection, ought to be avoided at all costs. And oftentimes, the very thing that prohibits true connection is an overly simplistic view of the world or explanation of the sin or pain with which we grapple. Nothing turns people away faster than a banal, contrived platitude. Nothing shuts us down quicker. Nothing alienates us faster. Thus, the last thing we need to do in our work is resort to preaching, because we actually cause more harm. The goal of our art is connection. We create a picture with our characters that allows others to see themselves, their struggles, their pain. When we see that someone else struggles with the same things we do, we don’t feel so alone. Preaching doesn't do that. Vulnerability and authenticity does.

UP NEXT - Next week, we will address the question of language in story. Is it ever okay for a Christian to use swear words? 

THE WELL CREATIVITY CONFERENCE

Zena Dell Lowe is honored to be a Keynote Speaker at THE WELL CREATIVITY CONFERENCE, which takes place in Grand Rapids MI on April 22-23, 2021. She’ll also be teaching an acting/improvisational workshop for actors and writers called, “Make Me Believe.”  To find out more or to register to attend, CLICK HERE, or go tohttps://seeyouatthewell.net

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SPECIAL THANKS - The Storyteller’s Mission with Zena Dell Lowe would like to thank composer CARLA PATULLO for the original music she graciously permits us to use in the i