The Artistic Vision

Gary Ball & Alex Sosler

Introducing The Artistic Vision hosted by Gary Ball and Alex Sosler! This podcast explores the correlation between faith and art--specifically, cultivating a sacramental imagination for creative practice. This season will feature guests ranging from practicing artists to scholars, and anywhere in between. Subscribe today to receive new episodes every week! 

  1. Winfield Bevins: "Beauty will Save the World"

    4D AGO

    Winfield Bevins: "Beauty will Save the World"

    On today's episode of "The Artistic Vision" we talk with Winfield Bevins, the author of How Beauty Will Save the World: Recovering the Power of the Arts for the Christian Life. In a world filled with chaos and distraction, the concept of beauty often takes a backseat to more pressing concerns. Yet, in this episode we explore the profound impact that beauty can have on our lives. Beauty isn't just an aesthetic; it’s a moment of connection with the divine. Winfield aims to help Christians see beauty as an essential elements of everyday life, even practicing beauty as a Spiritual Discipline that fosters deeper connections and understanding of the Divine. About the Book: In How Beauty Will Save the World, Winfield Bevins invites us to reclaim the power of beauty in a culture dulled by distraction and disconnection. Blending theology, personal story, and a vision for a new renaissance of Christian artistry, Bevins shows how beauty—natural, artistic, and redemptive—can heal our lives, renew the church, and revive our hope. This isn’t just a book for artists—it’s a call to every believer to live artfully, reflect the glory of the Creator, and become “missionaries of beauty.” Buy How Beauty Will Save the World HERE. About Winfield Bevins: Dr. Winfield Bevins is an internationally recognized author, artist, and the founding director of Creo Arts, which is a non-profit that exists to bring beauty, goodness, and truth to the world through the arts. Winfield is also artist-in-residence at Asbury Theological Seminary where he champions the integration of art, theology, and mission. Over the past decade, he has helped start numerous initiatives and academic programs that have trained leaders from around the world.  Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    30 min
  2. Julian Davis Reid: "Thinking of Creating as Chaplaincy - Attending to the Person in Front of You"

    11/20/2025

    Julian Davis Reid: "Thinking of Creating as Chaplaincy - Attending to the Person in Front of You"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision, we explore the world of Julian Davis Reid, an artist and theologian who seamlessly weaves music and faith. Julian shares his journey from a musically rich upbringing to becoming a transformative voice in the arts. He discusses his creative projects, including his latest records Vocation and Behold, and his ministry Notes of Rest, which invites listeners into spaces of spiritual reflection and musical contemplation. Join us as we delve into how Julian’s work demonstrates the power of music to shape personal growth, communal connection, and spiritual transformation. Whether you’re a musician, artist, or lover of faith-driven creativity, this conversation offers inspiration for embracing art as a form of vocation and rest. Website: JulianDavisReid.com Instagram: @juliandavisreid YouTube channel: Julian Davis Reid on YouTube Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    39 min
  3. Mitali Perkins: "When It's Not Good Enough! Creating When You Feel Like a Failure"

    11/11/2025

    Mitali Perkins: "When It's Not Good Enough! Creating When You Feel Like a Failure"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision, author Mitali Perkins shares her remarkable journey from her Bengali roots to becoming a beloved Christian author of children’s and young adult books. Mitali opens up about her creative struggles—battling self-doubt, confronting the inner critic that whispers, “I suck, my work sucks,”—and learning to listen for God’s encouragement to “Keep going.” We discuss the spiritual adventure of art-making, the myth that art can exist without message, and how artists can balance truth-telling with leaving room for mystery and meaning in their work. Whether you’re a Christian artist, writer, or creative thinker, Mitali’s wisdom will inspire you to keep creating with courage, humility, and faith. 👉 Subscribe to The Artistic Vision for more conversations exploring faith, creativity, imagination, and the vocation of the artist. https://www.mitaliperkins.com https://www.instagram.com/mitaliperkins/ https://x.com/MitaliPerkins Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    39 min
  4. Duncan Simcoe: "Is my Art Christian? Comparing Devotional and Prophetic Art"

    11/05/2025

    Duncan Simcoe: "Is my Art Christian? Comparing Devotional and Prophetic Art"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision, we welcome artist and professor Duncan Simcoe, who offers a rich framework for understanding Christian art through the categories of prophetic and devotional expression. Simcoe reflects on whether art can truly be taught and explores the artist’s journey from imitation to originality. He shares the story behind his compelling series Black Drawings—a body of work that began, as he puts it, by “making the right mistake.” Using humble materials like tar paper, Simcoe demonstrates how ordinary things can become vessels of transcendence, revealing deep spiritual truths through the material world. This conversation invites artists and viewers alike to see how creativity participates in divine revelation and how faithful art can both speak truth and offer devotion. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of the sacred dimensions of artistic practice. https://www.duncansimcoeart.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    39 min
  5. Lanta Davis: "Exercising the Imagination: The Way Images Stamp our Souls"

    10/28/2025

    Lanta Davis: "Exercising the Imagination: The Way Images Stamp our Souls"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision, Lanta Davis joins us to answer the question: can images shape belief? We dive into the role of the imagination in transforming our spiritual lives. Lanta discusses practical ways we exercise our imagination and expand our vision. Discover how images and stories help us see God’s beauty, awaken creativity, and renew our sense of wonder in the world. If you’re a Christian artist, creative, or storyteller, this conversation will inspire you to see your imagination as a sacred gift — one that can deepen your faith and sense of purpose. Join us as we explore the spiritual power of creativity and learn how to live with a richer, more intentional vision of life. Lanta Davis teaches Rhetoric and the Sacramental Imagination, What Is Beauty?, and Great Texts for the JWHC. She believes education is learning—over and over—the gift of wonder. Both outside and inside the classroom, she aims to help others see the world for the wild, wonderful, strange thing that it is.    Her book, Becoming by Beholding, considers the role of the imagination in spiritual and character formation. How do we become the person we are called to become? How do we align our emotions with our beliefs? How might beauty help persuade the heart to do what we ought to do? She has written for publications such as Christianity Today, Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic, Plough, Parabola, Christian Century, Christ and Pop Culture, Christian Scholar’s Review, International Journal for Christianity and Education, Religions, and Renascence. Official website: lantadavis.com Buy Becoming By Beholding HERE Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    33 min
  6. Andy Squyres: "Looking into the Abyss and Not Turning Away--on Writing Honest Songs"

    10/21/2025

    Andy Squyres: "Looking into the Abyss and Not Turning Away--on Writing Honest Songs"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision, singer-songwriter Andy Squyres joins the conversation to explore the deep connection between music and authentic storytelling. Known for his raw honesty and poetic lyrics, Andy shares how tragedy, spiritual doubt, and a search for authentic Christian artistry have shaped his creative journey. From his early influences in high school literature classes to his unique relationship with contemporary Christian music, Andy opens up about the challenges and triumphs of his creative path. Whether you’re an artist seeking inspiration or a listener drawn to theology and the arts, this heartfelt discussion offers wisdom, encouragement, and a renewed vision for meaningful art. Andy is coming to Redeemer Anglican Church's Eikon Gallery in Asheville, NC on November 20th! Follow on Instagram @eikon_avl @redeemer_asheville https://andysquyres.com/ instagram: @andysquyres   facebook: @andysquyresmusic YouTube: @andysquyres Spotify: Andy Squyres Artist Page Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    47 min
  7. Robert Balfour: "How a Makerspace is Shaping Community and Spiritual Growth"

    10/02/2025

    Robert Balfour: "How a Makerspace is Shaping Community and Spiritual Growth"

    In this episode of The Artistic Vision podcast, hosts Gary and Alex talk with Robert Balfour, a priest, woodworker, and founder of the Old School Makerspace in San Antonio, Texas. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and art, showing how creativity can become a unique form of ministry. Robert shares his personal story of moving from a practical, no-nonsense upbringing to discovering the transformative power of beauty and craftsmanship. Through woodworking, he found not only a personal spiritual practice but also a way to foster collaboration, creativity, and growth within his church and local community. Listeners will discover how a makerspace can serve as an expression of faith, bringing people together to create, connect, and be transformed. This episode is perfect for Christian artists, church leaders, and creatives seeking inspiration on how art and craftsmanship can deepen both faith and community life. oldschoolmakerspace.com Follow us on Instagram: @theartisticvisionpodcast @g_ball2 @alexsosler Check out CREO Arts: https://www.creoarts.org @creoarts.community Buy the Artistic Vision book here! https://wipfandstock.com/9781666760132/the-artistic-vision/ https://www.amazon.com/Artistic-Vision-Cultivating-Sacramental-Imagination/dp/1666760137/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gTOsrim0XMSOuyLOeIeqJHvXQlDWGE8BqOmNzY_TR90uoCegHsEhJBG77UwllpmqLDWKth27lBsmET7L6zvc7ICCVdmkwI33_NEQ_nhHaDv93pdCdMGQIktvJfX8bLqO7YjU6aVmNrGphfVU5ueCV0eG_qJJa9dRQBoebI1YbmZHOhyO178tlKdGbg4x2bjfLI0onx9-uhqzoCsc3lK_qwFOZDjVQwfqxeG4uzRbEpQ.yXgwTDxpCvj4B59DJmY1tcOwV7D8tMdtxas0EndXMCY&qid=1745002821&sr=8-1

    32 min

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Introducing The Artistic Vision hosted by Gary Ball and Alex Sosler! This podcast explores the correlation between faith and art--specifically, cultivating a sacramental imagination for creative practice. This season will feature guests ranging from practicing artists to scholars, and anywhere in between. Subscribe today to receive new episodes every week!