Renew the Arts Podcast

Ryanne Molinari joins Michael to discuss her forthcoming book on the relationship between the worship arts and the fruit of the Spirit.

Carly Taich, a singer-songwriter from Asheville, dives into how art can intertwine with faith, exploring the struggles of artists balancing passion and financial security. Joined by Jimmy Smith, a renowned music producer, they discuss the complexities of viewing art as a ministry, hobby, or profession. The conversation delves into the pressures of the Christian music scene, the importance of community support for artists, and the need for genuine expression amid commercial demands. Both guests offer insights on staying true to one’s calling while navigating the industry.

Abbey and Michael get together to discuss how deconstruction within the church is both fed and addressed by the arts. What exactly do we mean by deconstruction? Why is it so prevalent right now? What does it have to do with the arts? Stay tuned at the end to hear “Oh, Sweetest Name” by John Van Deusen from his record, (I Am) Origami Pt. 4 — Marathon Daze. You might also be interested in checking . . . [ Read More ]

This is the first of a new series for the Renew the Arts podcast, Deep Dive, where we pay very close attention to an entire album or song in all of its parts, from composition to production. In this first of the series, Michael interviews Sean Sullivan, the creative force behind the music of Warbler, about his forthcoming third album, Wrestling. In this double-stuffed episode, they introduce the album, listen through it in its entirety, . . . [ Read More ]

Abbey Sitterley interviews Michael Minkoff about the historical development and downfall of patronage. What does it mean for Porchlight and Renew the Arts to resurrect the idea of patronage now when its history seems so tied up in elitism? How do we avoid making the mistakes of the past? Stay tuned at the end for a sneak peak at “The Sixth,” a track from the forthcoming record Wrestling, by Warbler.

Abbey Sitterley, Chief Storyteller for Porchlight, dives into the world of intentional communities like L’Abri, Bruderhof, and L’Arche. She uncovers valuable lessons on hospitality, the importance of artists, and the dangers of hyper-individualism. Abbey discusses how these communities tackle societal challenges while fostering creativity. The conversation also highlights the need for inclusivity and authentic connections, encouraging listeners to take meaningful actions within their own communities.

Justus and Michael discuss the motivations and reasoning behind launching the Porchlight Art and Hospitality Network. They then explain the qualities and virtues they hope to draw together and further cultivate in the network. Stay tuned at the end to hear a live rendition of “Face to Face,” by the Local Hang-Ups.

Justus and Michael finish up their conversation on politics and culture with a few days left for election 2020. Stay tuned at the end for “Worry,” off of Warbler’s self-titled record.

Justus sat down with singer-songwriter Wendell Kimbrough to discuss how the psalms encourage the church to empathy, why we don’t sing them like we used to, and why we need to sing them again. Stay tuned at the end for “The Hand of God (Psalm 82)” from Wendell’s album Come to Me.

Justus and Cynthia talk with Alexia Jones, founder of Rise Theater, about how art made in community can help heal brokenness in pursuit of recovery. Stay tuned at the end for “Dance Hi’s and Lo’s” by Civilized Creature, from the record Steadfast.