Intelligent Design and CreativityThe idea that there is intelligent design in nature is viewed with much scorn and contempt in scientific circles. Wikipedia claims, “It is a modern form of the traditional teleological argument for the existence of God, modified to avoid specifying the nature or identity of the designer.” In other words, it is an old argument rehashed! If you are a Christian artist however, I’ll assume that you have a different viewpoint. There is something about the process of making art, which gives us a different perspective. The making of art goes through a predictable cycle. First there is the initial thrill of an idea. This is followed by the technical challenge of finding the means to realize it. Invariably there follows a sense of frustration at our shortcomings, before finally arriving at a solution. The solution, if we are honest, always falls far short of what we had originally envisioned. Just like a couch potato can never fully comprehend the runner’s high, those who do not engage in the artistic process, can never fully appreciate the challenges of a work of art. We do not need to be told that what we see in nature is absolutely astounding, and the work of intelligent design. As those who have struggled with the principles of design, our response is one of awe. Artists are consumed with being unique. They search and study extensively to develop a distinctive style. Galleries encourage this malady by requesting a body of work ‘with a consistent style’. I suggest a different perspective. The intelligent design evidenced by all God’s creation, demonstrates uniqueness at every level. It is built into each of us as human beings. We have been ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’ Ps 139:14. If even our fingerprints are unique, why do we strive for individuality in our work?Should it not be self evident that all that we create will bear His distinctive stamp and ours, because we are unique? Do we chase after a style, because we are more prone to imitate, than create? Perhaps a lack of appreciation of our uniqueness is the culprit. It causes us to consider another’s expression as more valid. It may even be our innate covetous nature that desires another’s fingerprint than our own. Friend, as you consider how totally unique God made you, may you remember this one lesson. The best thing that you can do, as a Christian artist, is to be yourself. Being yourself makes you vulnerable. In a world that seems to encourage conformity from the cradle to the grave, being unashamedly you, will feel strange. But being yourself, best honors and fulfills the purpose that the Intelligent Designer intended for you.
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