2011 MSAA Art Showcase Entrants

View this month’s Artist of the Month

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C.J. Christensen – Lindsborg, KS

I have been a Lutheran Pastor for 51 years and I have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis for 25 of those years. I was forced into disability retirement with the diagnosis but I have continued to serve as I could and am presently pastor of a small parish on a part time basis.

I studied art 35 years ago in a number of media, but became too busy to do much with it. Over a year ago I began again with a private teacher, and have pretty much limited myself to working in charcoal and oil. I have been doing some figure studies, but I have done mostly landscapes, seascapes, and marines. The submitted painting, The Smoky Valley from Coronado Heights, illustrates what inspires me: the celebration of God who has created this beautiful world. Trying to paint that beauty is a way of participating in what He has done and in the effort I find inspiration, healing, and peace – and that is why I paint.

 

The Smoky Valley
The Smoky Valley
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