Artist Spotlight: Evan Hildebrandt
Cincinnati artist Evan Hildebrandt is a member of SCA's Makers Community of inspired artists, embracing a Christ-identity, experiencing authentic community, and discovering their God-given purposea.
My name is Evan Hildebrandt, and I have been a member of the Makers community group for just over three months now. I have thoroughly enjoyed our meetings with other artists and believers. At this time in history, I believe it is critical to meet with other artists and believers to discuss the trials of being a Christian artist.
The community group has given me a renewed sense of hope, and it has inspired me to know that other artists have similar struggles as myself. Historically artists have been known to deal with many exercises in mental gymnastics. Some hurdles have to be overcome in the mind of an artist: self-doubt, fear, income issues, etc. The Makers community groups have helped me not feel so isolated in overcoming these hurdles.
One of our lessons, “The Mask We Wear,” was very impactful for me. I did a painting several years ago about this exact subject. I have seen so many of these masks come off in my life since then. It was like doing the painting started me on a trajectory to remove the masks in my life. If we let God’s light shine in our darkness, it hurts for a time, but the Holy Spirit holds us so gently in it. When we give our shame of wearing the masks over to Jesus, He crucifies it on His cross. I am so thankful for that!
One of our lessons, “The Mask We Wear,” was very impactful for me. I did a painting several years ago about this exact subject. I have seen so many of these masks come off in my life since then. When we give our shame of wearing the masks over to Jesus, He crucifies it on His cross. I am so thankful for that!
The content that Dr. William Barnett has put forth as the structure for these groups is simply amazing. The questions are very well thought out to provoke conversation that goes well below the surface. In addition, because the content is rooted in biblical wisdom, the group feeds my creativity and my spirit. After every session, I feel renewed in my faith and my craft.
Dr. Barnett’s enthusiasm to help artists is easily seen in his interactions and willingness to support the arts community. I am very grateful that Dr. William Barnett has come into my life, and I look forward to continuing with the Makers community groups.
"Untitled", Evan Hildebrandt, 2021 (Acrylic on canvas, 48 " x 60)
“My work is an educational practice, teaching myself about subjects through the creation of art. I do not set out to make a work for the viewer’s enjoyment–although I hope that the viewer does enjoy the work—it isn’t necessarily made for the viewer. Instead, the work is done for me to better understand whatever subject I choose through the creative mode of learning. I do not intend to be a teacher but a student.
The physical act of creating allows me to meditate on and ponder whatever subject it may be that I hope to gain a better knowledge of. Through this act of creation, I can come to a greater understanding of a subject on a level that cannot be achieved through written knowledge, meditation, or observation alone. The physical act of creating the work brings forth more profound revelations about the subjects that I choose to explore. Even after the works are complete, new revelations emerge, and new understandings are achieved.”
Evan has been a full-time artist since 2008. He has a studio in downtown Cincinnati where he is prolific in creating his artwork. He has worked with many clients and interior designers to create site-specific work over his career. Evan can visualize with the client to come up with the perfect piece of art for the space. From abstract to photo-realistic paintings, Evan has a wide array of artistic talents and uses various materials, including paint, resin, tar, clay, and glass, in his work. He has completed five large-scale murals for Artworks. He has created site-specific work for Good Samaritan Hospital, Southshore Condominiums, The Lane library in Hamilton Ohio, Bronzie Design and Build, RM Interiors, Bromwell’s Harth Lounge, and other clients.
Learn more about Evan and his art here
Experience Makers Community Groups!
Community is collaboration, creating, and doing life together. It’s where the most incredible stories unfold, creating space for learning together, meaningful relationships, accountability, and spiritual growth.
As artists, shapers of the culture, we make art from a heart of worship and dependency on the Master Artist who inspires our creativity and skill. We are excited to walk with you, fellowship with you and to walk into our creative callings, together. All creative types welcome.
Groups are designed to enhance the artist’s experience through relevant resources, activities, and conversations that engage in to know the One who invited us to join us on the journey, grow in our relationship to Him, and show the world the hope and love of Christ through what we create.
Makers Community Groups are located in creative spaces like art galleries, theaters, studios, virtually on Zoom, and other places to foster an atmosphere of engagement, conversation, and artmaking. Groups meet bi-weekly in Southwest Florida and virtually.
Makers Community Groups are located in creative spaces like art galleries, theaters, studios, virtually on Zoom, and other places to foster an atmosphere of engagement, conversation, and artmaking. Groups meet bi-weekly in Southwest Florida and virtually.
For more information, email; bill.barnett@scanaples.org
HOPE AND HEALING THROUGH THE ARTS
Storytellers Creative Arts (SCA) is a Southwest Florida non-profit organization with a mission to lead people to saving faith in Jesus Christ, the One who transforms lives. SCA disciples and equips artists to accomplish the mission. SCA provides healing and nurturing outreach programs to touch the underprivileged. Programs include visual and performing arts, storytelling, and music. SCA partners with Youth Haven, David Lawrence Centers, New Horizons After-School Clubs of SWFL, Pathways Early Education in Immokalee, and other organizations.
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