About the BFA
Biblical Foundations of the Arts - BFA
This inductive study of the Bible is designed for creative students wishing to draw content from the Scriptures for their arts…whether it be dance, drama, music, fine art or some other expression of creativeness. We will learn to study in depth with the tools of inductive study – observation, interpretation and application. Students will have many opportunities for spontaneous creativity in bringing the reading of the Scripture to life. There will also be longer term assignments of preparing presentations of the themes of the book currently being studied. When our creative art is inspired by the Word of God – that is when we create art that changes lives.
If you are a ‘right-brained’ individual who enjoys exercising your creativity this is the Bible school for you. If the goal of your artistry is to impact lives for Christ this school will help you explore ways to bring the Word into life for your audience.
The emphasis in this school is on the study of the scriptures. Occasionally some lessons in various disciplines will be offered, but students are expected to exercise and practice that artistic skill they have already developed as they turn scripture into art. Whether you are a seasoned dancer, actor, musician, or someone who has recently taken up the arts, you will develop your creativity and ability to make God’s Word the foundation for your work.
BFA is a Core Course for University of the Nations and is required for all arts graduates in the College of Arts and Sports.
Example Assignment: Develop a creative project that expresses the three different leadership styles you are studying in the books of Kings I and II.
What some people did: Three audience members are taken captive by the evil King of Doomsville and the three Super Heroes come to the rescue each with their different style of leadership. Each super hero dances with a different style and in the end all three captives are freed.
What other people did: While watching a dance concert, the audience was surprised by the sound of warning horns and the announcement on the PA system that a cloud of nuclear fall-out was quickly advancing on our city. The audience was packed into a small ‘bomb shelter’ and transported by the three leaders with very different styles into a safe place where they were thanked for participating in this simulation.
WHAT WOULD YOU DESIGN?
Other typical assignments:
Have a conversation around the campfire in the desert with the murmuring Israelites. Talk about recipes for quail.
Prepare a creative reading from Psalms using music and sculpture.
Set to a rhythm the truth behind the Beatitudes
