The Theology of Pottery

Photo from unsplash.com

I personally believe that being creative within the church or as a christian is essential and imperative for the growth and expansion of God's kingdom. I find myself often uneasy when a church or people disdain the evolution of creative peoples and resources within the church. This may come from a lost concept of the body of Christ and what that means. When Christianity is seen as a place, it is hard to escape that mindset and embrace the collaborative process that encapsulates the body of Christ.

In the early days, the body of Christ was made up of creators and creatives. History shows us that pottery and many other physical and creative trades are prevalent throughout the bible. Though, these references to clay and the potter are often overlooked and misinterpreted. God, the ultimate potter and original creative displays multiple examples woven within scripture that parallels his purpose and intentions to us.

The Beginning 

It is clear, that in the beginning with His own image in mind, God created. All of earth, every living creature was sculpted and created by God. God is intentional with His creation whether it is the complex geographical ecosystems or the intricate creation of the human body and functions that work harmoniously within us. This detailed purposeful creation is brilliant and beyond human comprehension. His art is the ultimate art.

The beginning of God's human creation began with dust and intention. 

Clay is often dug out of wet and undesirable circumstances before dried in the sun for use. Potters go through a selection and preparation process before even forming their clay on the wheel. With every piece that is made, there is planning for the purpose of the piece and what it will do. A potter may be making a pot, cup, vase etc. and needs to know the amount of clay to be used. In the same way, God is intentional with our purposes and directly involved with our creation.

• Jeremiah 1:5  "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you..."

• Jeremiah 29:11  "For I know the plans I have for you" declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

• Ephesians 2:10  "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

• Job 33:6  "Behold, I am according to thy wish in God’s stead: I also am formed out of the clay."

It is important to remember that clay is made from dust, as is man. When dust is referenced in the bible it is common knowledge that this is interchangeable with the dust of clay. Man's body is frail and will return to dust in the end. 

• Ecclesiastes 12:7  "and the dust returns to the ground it came from, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.

• Ecclesiastes 3:20  "All go to the same place; all come from dust and to dust all return."

• Genesis 2:7  "Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being. 

The potter has mixed the clay and is ready to begin the shaping process

Shaping

One of the greatest actions of our God is his relentless pursuit. When beginning the shaping process of a vessel, the potter must being coning/ wedging; a process that relieves air pockets and stress the clay accumulates from being handled and making it stronger. The beginning of the creation process is the beginning of our sufferings though God "wedging" us is producing perseverance.

• Romans 5:3 "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings because we know that suffering produces perseverance."

The next part of the shaping process would be to center the clay. This is the foundation of the rest of the process. This same concept holds true in our lives as well. A centered life with Christ is the foundation of balance that holds us together during every-day activity. 

The potter will then begin opening the vessel. 

• Psalm 119:73 "Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands."

All throughout the new and old testament, God is primarily working and focused on the inside of His creation. As the potter uses water to shape and mold their work, living water and the word are used to shape and mold and gain maturity through understanding. A potter works on the sides and walls of the vessel, watching meticulously for uniformity and perfection. We are unable to fix and mold ourselves, as we see in scripture in Jeremiah 18 as Jeremiah went to the potters house to hear the Lord's message. Through that passage as God explains that He will make a nation new like a potter to a marred jar, making God's overriding authority apparent. 

Masterpiece 

We are Gods Masterpiece creation. He knows everything about each piece as each though the same, are all uniquely and individually created with many different beautiful colors, shapes, and sizes. And doesn't the creator have the best intentions for his creation? To think the creation would question or deny Him who is in control is foolish. 

• Isaiah 29:16 "You turn things upside down, as if the potter were thought to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, “You did not make me”? Can the pot say to the potter, “You know nothing”?"

In the end, God is in control of our lives, sculpting and molding us to glorify Him. Walk in the knowledge and power of a beautiful masterpiece. Embracing the potter metaphor in the bible can give a greater insight, depth, and vividness of scriptural teachings.

• Isaiah 64:8  "Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand."

Video is from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bs5kbLVDPZc

Short Look at Historical Pottery

Photo source Unknown

Biblical Potters know no gender. During bible times men typical threw pottery on the wheel while women would be more involved in hand coiling and sculpting. These craftsman practices were familiar and apart of everyday life to the people of that day making their biblical messages easily understood by the then-common day peoples. It is hard to think about this type of work and common knowledge in the industrialized nation we live in today. During bible times, people looked at the simple everyday life practices for a way to understand spiritual implications more clearly.

Pottery dates back to 5,000 B.C. during the Neolithic age. Older pottery can still be found in archeological searches, as it withstands chemicals and most weathering. Once pottery is fired in a kiln it is almost indestructible. Clay in Palestine was very popular and can still be found in the remains of tools, kilns, potters wheels, and prepared clay. Within the Old Testament, the word "potter" referenced yastar, "the one who forms." Many of the practices and formation methods in pottery were experimented and perfected during bible times. Many of the techniques are still used today.

In Palestine, pottery quickly moved into becoming an artistic talent. Though even so an artistic flare was added, pottery still remained useable and kept its practicality with citizens needs still in mind. During this time, pottery was not a luxury item, but used often in everyday life.

I really can not help but think about how amazing it is that a craft like pottery that has been around for thousands of years, is still prevalent and used in today's society.

Random Questions about What Makes Art, Art.

With an artist Mom and a creative Dad always pushing and encouraging me to try new things, an early desire arose during my childhood to be creative. I love everything about the self expression and closeness it brings. Most of my childhood art experiences were glorified arts and crafts around my house which ended up accumulating in large piles in my house. These piles resulted in a belief that all of my art was a masterpiece. A few weeks ago I had gone home to find and face these piles. Had I decided or known relatively what art was, maybe I wouldn't have kept every Popsicle stick I had ever painted. Then again it was all really cute and relatively sentimental.

So this got me thinking; what is art?
Does it have a definition?
Is it just creation?
Can it be objective?

Besides numbers, art has essentially been apart history within societies world wide. Even from the beginning of childhood, art has made its way into life activities to preoccupy time and enhance creative thinking alike. But what is it really?

Dictionary.com defines "Art" primarily as, "the quality, production, expression, or realm, according to aesthetic principles, of what is beautiful, appealing or of more than ordinary significance."

So what constitutes something as beautiful?
My sister asked me what the most beautiful thing I had seen was once and I kinda freaked out.
How are you supposed to answer that? Isn't beauty in everything?
Anywhere here's my answer to that question.

So if there is beauty in everything than can everything be art? This brought me to look at the second part of the definition... "more than ordinary significance." Which I also found to be a pretty subjective perspective of art. To the person writing these definitions, what is does this mean?

In the end I believe that art is whatever the beholder wants it to be. To me personally art is creation. Creating and making something out of nothing is art. Something with intention, thought, perspective, and a bit of hard work. Something cherished and loved.

So, what else is art? -- Your turn.

Photo Series #4

On set for a dialogue scene project, Tom Pottiger, 19, from New Jersey snaps some pictures of actors at the university of Valley Forge located in Phoenixville Pennsylvania. 

Newly engaged couple, Rob Boyd and Hannah Weisensale of Gettysburg, Pa, getting pictures taken by Tom Pottiger and Emily Gouker at Sach's Covered Bridge in Gettysburg, Pa.

Rob and Hannah pose at a special location as videographer, Tom Pottiger , 19, gets some shots for the couple's engagement photos. 

Recently there have been a lot of projects in my life where Tom and I have been able to work together, which is so cool for us. This is something we have talked about as a future dream and watching it slowly become a reality is so fun to watch unfold. He brings a lot to the table that I lack especially while working with other people under a professional context. During projects, I usually am very focused on what needs to be done while Tom is relaxed and talking to the people about how to pose and etc. When it’s just me working in those situations, I notice his absence. I am so grateful for his insight in the video world as I come to grips with the projects I have at hand. I often get overwhelmed quickly and Tom reminds me to relax and just have fun doing my thing. He is such an encouraging part of my media process as well as to others involved. 

At this point in my college career, I feel challenged and inspired by the creatives surrounding me. There is so much talent being tapped into in my peers and fellow classmates that I feel are totally pushing me to break down walls and barriers within my own creative journey. Seeing where other people are, their focus, and their goals is eye-opening to my personal process and progress. This is a good place to be in for me and I am excited to where it leads. 
A project Tom and I were able to work on this week was one near and dear to my heart. My best friend from childhood has gotten engaged, and I was privileged enough to take her engagement photos! Tom did a quick engagement announcement video for them which gives some insight to some locations we went to. It was so special to spend some time with these lovebirds who took me to important locations in their relationships for photos. We walked to the site of their first date, first kiss, and potential wedding spot. It was encapsulating being in the presence of someone you love so dearly as she prepares and shares the person she wants to spend forever with. Hannah would not stop smiling the entire time, it was so adorable! I am so lucky to be her friend and to be doing these photos. As much fun as they were to take, they are equally as exciting to edit. I can't wait to give them to her and then be with her on this day. So happy to see this relationship that God has perfectly orchestrated together develop into something so beautiful.

Is the Unequal Wage Gap Cultural?

http://worksite.actu.org.au/equal-pay-equal-value/

**** Disclaimer: this blog post is for a school assignment ****

What Gap?

The wage gap and differences are historical in the United States and have become more of an issue in recent years as women are beginning to hold a large presence in the workplace. In the past, women's work generally consisted of staying at home and attending to domestic roles for the family. This was not only the social norm but expected of women. After the 1950's more and more women began to break that mold and join the workforce. This movement inspired the Equal Pay Act of 1963. This act was set in place to prohibit discrimination based on gender for those who perform jobs of equal skill. And yet, even with this act put in place over 50 years ago, equal pay is still an issue among all classes. So, this has raised the question, is this purely cultural for Americans? 

Exploring Dimensions 

Cultural dimensions are the makeup of and distinguishing factors of culture. Geert Hofstede has done groundbreaking work on the workplace and cultural influence. His cultural dimensions are foundational in any type of cultural analysis. The dimensions Hofstede explains includes power distance, individualism, masculinity, uncertainty avoidance, long term orientation, and indulgence. The larger factor of gender equality and pay stems from the masculinity aspect. Masculinity and femininity shape culture and their values. The Masculine culture will value Career Success while Feminine cultures value the quality of life. More often than not, feminine cultures with promote sexual equality and contain a weak gender differentiation. This quality, in turn, encourages women to stand up for their rights and fight for equality. The United States has a relatively high masculinity score compared to countries like Iceland, where women are making a huge impact on society as a whole. 

Future Hope

It is so important to recognize that in the United States, we, the people, are represented. The government represents us, not the other way around. There can be change for women who are victims of unequal pay if and when we take a stand. It is important to remember who is running to be our leaders and lead our country into equality. Not only being knowledgeable of those running but also seeing where they stand, and have stood in the past.  Many candidates running for 2016, like presidential candidate Hilary Clinton, are large advocates for the paycheck fairness act. As our culture is ever changing, it is harder to try and change an entire nation, then advocate for a leader to support the change we wish to see. 

Hofstede Dimensions

João Silas

**** Disclaimer: this blog post is for a school assignment **** The vast differences of the world, and people of its multiple nations, are molded and formed throughout history to create ever-changing cultures. These cultures in turn shaped their inhabitants worldview and way of life. Culture plays a determining role for the reasons why people perform certain actions. Many aspects and attributes are not only descriptive to a culture but also cultivate it. Anthropology often focuses on trying to observe inside these unique cultures to understand them better. The many dimensions of these cultures give in-depth insight on how people of these nations operate. Iceland is a great example of a culture much different than America, whose cultural dimensions give a glimpse at the lifestyle they have established. Iceland functions in a feminine culture where many features of life are determined and heavily influenced by this foundational principle. Numerous social issues are handled much differently due to this difference in this cultural mindset. Looking at this cultural trait more in depth will not only give a better understanding of the Icelandic people and their culture, but a greater understanding of the functionality within our home culture. When examining the feminine and masculine aspects of Icelandic peoples, it is important to reference the history, what this dimension looks like within the culture, and the unique characteristics in worldview differences, as they are apparent in contrast to the American culture as well as the biblical Kingdom culture. Before a contrast can begin, it is imperative to define terms and lay a foundation of these cultural dimensions.

 There are many different ways to structure and categorize different elements within a culture. “Anthropology is the holistic study of humankind” . Attempting to study a specific culture holistically can be difficult with the numerous pieces that make it whole. A popular widely used analysis system stems from professor Geert Hofstede for this purpose. Through research, Hofstede identified five dimensions within national cultures enabling a system of easy comparison. The five dimensions include power distance, individualism and collectivism, uncertainty avoidance, long-term and short-term orientation, as well as masculinity and femininity. Each of these dimensions does not necessarily account for the individuals within the entire nation, but gives a broad overview of what fits the general population. Knowing where a culture stands within Hofstede’s scales leads to a more holistic understanding woven within each specific trait of these dimensions.

            The dimensions bring characteristics to light based on their meanings and influence within a culture. It brings forward a culture’s behavior based on the attributes associated with the dimensions. This is revealed when looking at the traits within masculine and feminine cultures. A society that has a high masculine emphasis will typically hold assertiveness, ambitious, competitive, and toughness close to their identity. Masculine cultures tend to respect strength and are primarily career focused (Tabor). A feminine culture holds very different values from its masculine counterpart. Feminine culture seeks sexual equality and is very home centered. When children socialize, there is weak gender differentiation from the beginning and nurturing behaviors are stressed. Typically within feminine cultures, both genders hold similar roles and values. Though masculine and feminine cultures include various opposites and differences within their structures, there are some underlying motivations applicable to both. It comes down to the people’s definition of success, whether that be advancing to the most desired position individually or appreciating the quality of one’s life.

Photo Series #3

My painter's mask hanging on our fridge at home.

The front view of my house in New Oxford. 

Researching how to cook in Tom Pottiger's apartment Sunday afternoon.

During this photo series, I really want my photos to relate the emotions that inspired them. For me, this holds true, though they are also my photos. I am hoping that just by looking at the shots, others will be able to feel that moment because this is my story.This past weekend I was able to go home for the first time this semester. I had a lot of things that needed to go back home, and some things that needed to be brought back to school. I was so happy arriving home as everything was right in its place, just as I had left it. Though this particular trip was unlike many others I had taken.

Upon my arrival, I was given specific orders to stay away from the house. My dad was fighting a very serious flu. So serious, he was in a separate room, and everyone was ordered to wear blue painters masks for personal protection. Both of my parents were worried about my health and effects of staying with them. By Saturday, my mom had caught the very contagious virus and was heavily advising me to stay away. The house was very quiet and lonely this weekend and the lively family dinners I was anticipating had been subsided for the time being. 

Most of my weekend was spent at Tom’s apartment up in the mountains. Truly one of my favorite areas. We made the most of our time together relaxing, talking, and making food. Of course making meals comes with eating them, though Tom’s small apartment had not yet been graced with a table, so we spent ample amounts of time figuring out Part A and Part H’s attachments to one another. Once we had figured out the correct parts we decided to rearrange everything in the room as it was time for a change. To celebrate our accomplishment we even put together our own two-person party, which just so happened to be on the same day as the super bowl. We made Pittsburg Potatoes, Pizza, and Buffalo Chicken Dip. Living large up in the mountains! Unfortunately our lack of culinary experience led us to many text messages to mom and a trip to Google. We’ll get the hang of it sometime.Until next time,

Photo Series #2

This semester has been challenging so far. Though, it is only week 4, I feel like the entire semester has passed already. when I was going into this semester I knew it was going to be a challenge as I truly felt I was over scheduling myself. I had joined 2 groups/clubs, am still working, and taking 18 credits. I've had many meeting with advisors and mentors asking them how to getaround my credits etc etc. I was told I could either do the work or drop the classes I desperately wanted to sit in on/ get over with. 
Now that I'm in it, I wouldn't change a thing. God is teaching me so much in this season of my life. Like our own muscle makeup, you have to be torn apart before you can grow stronger. 

This is being proven to me in every part of my life. Literally every part. Friendships, relationships, school, being away from home. It's a crucial part to our livelihood. I am grateful for the opportunities i have been given in these short 3 weeks as I am watching myself being torn apart and calling out to God to strengthen me. Never have I been so creatively challenged then right now. So many of my classes are digital media project based and totally out of my comfort zone. But what was anxiety is now excitement. I love the aspect of collaboration and getting to see other creative's work. It is truly inspiring me. It sounds so cliche as I write it down, but it has never been more true for me than right now in this season as I am surrounded by creative's who are honing down on their skills and tirelessly chiseling at their masterpieces.

I’ve had the opportunity to shoot for Penndel youth again for two weekends during their Winter Retreat camp. This was an awesome opportunity in itself where I was able to stretch my own skills. I hope that these opportunities make me into a better photographer. 

I am also seeing my heart for missions grow bigger and bigger during my time serving on missions committee this semester. Last weekend we put on the Missions Boot Camp for all of the teams our school is sending out which was such a humbling experience. I did my best to give as much insight as I possibly could. 

Also, Tom has been visiting me more and more since he has had less hours and I am having so much fun! Although, we have taken a break, we are more in tune with each other than ever before. Relationships are never easy, they are hard work and both parties need to put in effort to keep it healthy. Sometimes a break is the best solution.

Until next time,