Episode 218 - Art + Faith: A Theology of Making with Makoto Fujimura
Sep 13, 2022
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Makoto Fujimura is a leading contemporary painter known for uniting abstract expressionism with traditional Japanese styles. He discusses the intricate bond between art and faith, emphasizing creativity's role in navigating spiritual journeys. Makoto highlights the transformative impact of integrating art into business, fostering innovation and empathy. He shares insights on divine creativity, practices meditation through paintings inspired by the Psalms, and reflects on the themes of sacrifice and community seen in the film 'Silence.'
Makoto Fujimura emphasizes that creativity is a theological perspective that deepens one's engagement with the world and faith.
The podcast explores Japan's rich cultural narrative, revealing hidden Christian influences that shape its artistic expression and identity.
Deep dives
Creating Value Through Faith
Human beings have a unique ability to create and add value in ways that no other creature can. The speaker reflects on his personal journey, moving from significant financial success to selling his company and grappling with his identity beyond wealth. He emphasizes the necessity of grounding one's identity in faith rather than material possessions, underlining that faith-driven entrepreneurs must recognize what God has equipped them to do. This mindset shift is essential for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship while also embracing the value of faith in their endeavors.
The Intersection of Art and Faith
The podcast dives into the intricate relationship between creativity and faith, showcasing the idea that all humans possess the capacity for creativity. An artist shares insights from his recent book, which discusses how art and faith intertwine and the significance of making as an essential aspect of human experience. The discussion suggests that creativity isn’t merely an act of producing art; it’s a theological perspective that enhances how individuals engage with the world around them. By understanding creativity through this lens, entrepreneurs can enrich their work and express their faith more profoundly.
Cultural Context and Artistic Legacy
Japan’s historical narrative serves as a backdrop for exploring the relationship between culture and faith, particularly concerning the hidden Christian influence within its society. The speaker discusses the cultural synthesis that occurred throughout Japanese history, particularly during periods of persecution, leading to a nuanced understanding of their aesthetic development. This connection to artistic expression challenges the common notion that Japan is non-Christian, instead highlighting an underlying heritage that influences its culture today. The podcast highlights how understanding this history can inspire individuals to appreciate the rich interplay of culture and faith in their own lives.
Embracing Creative Entrepreneurship
The conversation emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to embrace creativity to foster successful and sustainable businesses. It draws parallels between artistic creativity and entrepreneurial thinking, suggesting that both require a mindset focused on generativity and resilience amid challenges. Discussions about integrating art into business education underscore the idea that creativity can significantly enhance leadership and product development. Ultimately, fostering a culture that values creativity within the business realm can lead to greater innovation and fulfillment for entrepreneurs.
Makoto Fujimura is a leading contemporary painter, a well known writer, curator, and founder. At his core, he is a creator. Perhaps best known for his bicultural artwork, Makoto fuses abstract expressionism together with the traditional Japanese art of Nihonga and Kachoga (bird-and-flower painting tradition). His desire is to reframe how we talk about art, love, and beauty from a biblical perspective, and provide a hub that draws creative minds together from around the world. Makoto shares more about partnering with God and the coming of his New Creation.
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