Deconstructing & Reconstructing Faith in an Interfaith Marriage - Interview with Artist J Kirk Richards
Nov 30, 2023
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Artist J Kirk Richards discusses the challenges of faith deconstruction in interfaith marriages, the intersection of art and spirituality, and the importance of maintaining faith while navigating personal and artistic growth.
Navigating faith deconstruction in marriage through therapy and compromise.
Embracing identity influences and the importance of sharing power in relationships.
Finding strength in artistic expression and community connections to promote personal growth.
Deep dives
Jake Kirk Richards' Middle Name Origin
Jake goes by his middle name, Kirk, influenced by Joel Kirk, a person his father admired, which showcases how pivotal relationships can shape identity.
Artistic Inspiration from Religious Themes
Jake's art style embraces a blend of traditional religious figurative and abstract expressionist elements, portraying warmth and spirituality within his creations.
Challenges and Growth in Faith and Relationships
Jake discusses the evolution of his faith through deconstruction and reconstruction, emphasizing the importance of therapy in navigating differences in beliefs within his marriage and family, highlighting the value of open discussions and compromises.
Finding Strength and Joy in Community and Art
Jake shares how engaging with a diverse online community, academic studies, and creating art based on bravery inspired by Jesus Christ helps him find personal strength and joy, underscoring the significance of serving others and forming meaningful connections.
Final Words on Struggles and Personal Growth
Jake acknowledges the hustle of life and the beauty in seeing children grow into autonomous individuals, emphasizing the importance of sharing control and power in relationships, promoting understanding and appreciation for the evolving paths we and our loved ones take.
J Kirk Richards is a husband and father of four children and a contemporary artist whose career spans over two decades and his work covers themes of religion, spirituality, equality, and love. Kirk shares very vulnerable perspectives through his own experiences with his wife, family and career on a variety of topics, including: cognitive dissonance in aspects of faith and culture, letting go of control and sharing power in a marriage, and the importance of faith deconstruction and making sure we do not deconstruct to the point where we don't have any faith left.