Cedars, March 2019

Junior studio art major Sarah Harris has taken several semesters of sculpture classes. She has benefited from Benson’s in- struction and is excited to see a large influx of students entering the 3D program. “He brought in a new way of thinking about sculpture, how to talk about modern day issues through the context of culture,” Harris said. “He’s really big on biblical in- tegration, but it’s not forced. He talks about how what we make reflects who we are.” Harris recently designed a sculpture entitled “In Your Record.” Working with clay, she fashioned small stone-like pieces and placed them inside a teardrop-shaped sheer fabric hung from the ceiling. She placed a water element inside to drip down on the clay, so that it would break the clay down over time. The piece is based on Psalm 56 and the imagery of God collecting humanity’s tears in jars. “When you dry out clay and then re- introduce water, it will break down again,” Harris explained. “I wanted to use that to talk about how, when we go through diffi- cult situations, God uses those situations to change us ... even our tears are precious to Him.” Harris appreciates that art can be used to communicate powerful messages to mixed audiences. Several pieces of her art- work have generated questions in unbeliev- ers that lead to gospel conversations. As Benson incorporates fresh insight into the 3D program, he said he enjoys watching his students grow spiritually and in their skills. “They learn who they are, they learn what they believe,” he said. “They start to realize that their creativity is gifted from the Lord.” Students can install their projects in the atrium area of Alford, the library, or any academic building on campus upon receiving permission. But Benson, Harris and Hart agree that adding a gallery space where students could professionally display their artwork would both raise morale and start conversations. Benson has a vision to continue encour- aging his students toward a career where they can have an impact, despite fears about securing a steady paycheck. “Being an artist is scary,” he admitted. “You’re not going to get this six-figure job right out of college. But I’m a firm believer that art is a calling from the Lord. If you’re going into higher education for art, it’s not a hobby anymore. If God has called you to it, it is so fulfilling.” Katie Milligan is a sophomore English ma- jor. She enjoys taking Polaroid photos, eat- ing pasta and watching Disney movies. March 2019 13 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Photo courtesy of Sarah Harris Sarah Harris uses her art to lead to gospel conversations. Photo courtesy of Sarah Harris Sarah Harris’ sculpture, “In Your Record.” www.resoundradio.com Listen Online Now! Student Focused Radio 24/7