Northlanders Go to the Big City

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

The Why

The purpose of Redeeming Culture: Creating the World that Ought to Be the annual conference of the International Arts Movement was to gather major thinkers and artists who could act as a catalyst for a dialogue that would engage the culture that is and create the world that ought to be. Speeches, panels, tours and performances led participants into conversations and meditations immersed in deep questions of humanity, faith and culture.

The conference for most of us was more affective then effective. And this seems to be by design. We did not come away knowing the 10 steps to better worship planning or an action plan for creating a better outreach. Rather we sat at the feet of the modern masters -- great artists, gifted writers, brilliant thinkers. We will see the effect of this conference for decades as it seeps into our work, worship and relationships.

The purpose of this blog is to not only continue the conversation but also to be a touchstone for those of us who attended and those who were inspired by our reports. Come back here and read through the posts and comments to reconnect with the spirit of the conference, the spirit of innovation and responsibility we felt for those several days.

1 comment:

Loyd said...

I think one of the most impressive things about the conference is precisely that it wasn't a nuts-and-bolts, 10-steps-to-better-worship event. It showed in a vivid way the level of heart, brains, commitment, and talent that exist to produce art of faith. Some people will never be content with climbing Mt. Dora (!?!) when they know there is an Everest out there. This conference pointed the direction for the expedition.