Beauty Through Faith Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Gustav Hoyer and Benjamin Harding sit down with poet Kilby Austin to explore how beauty, suffering, and faith intersect through poetry. Drawing from Scripture, hymnody, and personal experience, Kilby reflects on the role of art in helping us perceive and pursue God more clearly.Links & ResourcesKilby Austin* Substack* Prisca Publishing (faith-based publisher)Kilby’s New Book This way to Warmth* This Way to Warmth Referenced Poets and Thinkers * Gerard Manley Hopkins* Emily Dickinson* Abraham Kuyper* Junius JohnsonKey Takeaways* Poetry can be both deeply sensory and intellectually grounded* Hymnody plays a powerful role in shaping our understanding of beauty* Suffering can act as a signpost pointing us toward God* Beauty is not separate from faith, it is a way of pursuing God Himself* Each person reflects something unique about God’s natureBeauty through Faith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our mission, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Summary In this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding is joined by Joe McHugh—artist, educator, and longtime advocate for craftsmanship and beauty—to explore the role of art in shaping both the human person and the life of faith.Joe reflects on his early formation as an artist, his years teaching in public schools, and the ways beauty became a lifelong pursuit rooted in both discipline and worship. Together, they discuss the relationship between skill and expression, the loss of craftsmanship in modern art education, and the cultural shift away from beauty toward abstraction, utility, and self-expression.This conversation also explores the deep human need for beauty, the tension artists face in academic and cultural spaces, and the ways technology and convenience can distance us from embodied, meaningful artistic experience. Joe offers a compelling vision for recovering beauty—not as luxury, but as something essential to human flourishing and spiritual life.This episode is especially for artists, musicians, educators, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how beauty, craft, and faith intersect in a modern world.Links & ResourcesWebsite:Joe’s Website Fly Fishing & Classes: St. Pete’s Fly Shop (Fort Collins, CO)Featured Artists (mentioned):* Matthew McHugh — University of Northern Colorado* Jonathan McHugh — Painter & ProfessorReferences* Johann Sebastian Bach — Cello Suites* Gustav Mahler — Symphony No. 2 (“Resurrection”)* Bill Frisell — Jazz Guitar Performances* Claude Monet — Impressionist LandscapesKey Takeaways* Beauty is not subjective chaos—it is grounded in order, craft, and form* Artistic skill and discipline are essential, not optional, to meaningful expression* Modern art culture often prioritizes concept over craftsmanship, to its detriment* People are deeply hungry for beauty, even if they cannot always articulate it* Encounters with beauty—through nature, music, or art—can be deeply healing* Art is not merely self-expression, but a form of participation in something greater* Technology and convenience risk distancing us from real, embodied artistic experience* The church has an opportunity—and responsibility—to recover a vision of beauty* Teaching art is not just technical formation, but personal and human formation* Faithful artists are called to pursue excellence with humility, integrity, and purpose This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding and Gustav Hoyer are joined by Cori Belle, pianist, teacher, and creator of Commonplace Beauty, to explore what it means to pursue beauty faithfully in both the church and the world.Cori reflects on her formation as a musician, her journey as a Christian artist, and the ways beauty is discovered not only in virtuosity and performance, but in discipline, obedience, community, and everyday life. Together, we discuss excellence in art, resistance artists face in modern worship culture, the loss of musical formation in the church, and how artists can steward their gifts with courage and humility.This episode is especially for artists, musicians, and thoughtful Christians wrestling with how faith, craft, and beauty intersect over a lifetime.Links & Resources:* Website: https://coribelle.com* Album: Commonplace Beauty* Substack: At Home with Classical Piano* Instagram: Follow Cori for teaching resources and visual curriculum inspirationMusic Link:* Johannes Brahms — Intermezzo, Op. 118 No. 2 * Charles Ives – The Alcotts (from the Concord Sonata)Key Takeaways* Beauty is not accidental — it is pursued through discipline, patience, and obedience* Artistic excellence is not opposed to faith; it can be an act of worship* The church has historically valued training and beauty — recovering this matters* Shared encounters with beauty can be deeply formative and communal* Faithful artists often live in tension between the church and the world* God frequently works through discomfort, not convenience* “Commonplace beauty” is found in daily faithfulness, not perfectionBeauty through Faith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Summary In this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding and Gustav Hoyer chat with composer and educator Lincoln Hanks for a wide-ranging and deeply reflective conversation on beauty, time, faith, and the vocation of the artist.Lincoln shares how his understanding of beauty was shaped by childhood imagination, sacred music, and the writings of C.S. Lewis, especially the idea of fleeting “glimpses of joy” that point beyond the temporal world. Drawing from his experience as a composer, pianist, and academic leader, he reflects on how music can suspend time, gesture toward eternity, and invite listeners into contemplation.The conversation explores Lincoln’s compositional influences, from Renaissance polyphony and Orthodox chant to modern figures like Olivier Messiaen, and how these traditions inform works such as Liza Sinesti and Monstre Sacré, written in collaboration with pianist Paul Barnes. They also discuss the relationship between the church and contemporary sacred art, the role of beauty outside the worship service, and what it means to serve faithfully as an artist in both sacred and secular spaces.Whether you’re a composer, performer, theologian, or simply a listener drawn to beauty, this episode offers a thoughtful meditation on art as a window into eternity.Links Lincoln Hanks* Official Website: https://www.nlincolnhanks.com(Music, biography, and contact information)Collaborators & Influences* Paul Barnes – Pianist and commissioner of Liza Sinesti and Monstre Sacré* Olivier Messiaen * C. S. Lewis - Surprised By JoyInstitution * Pepperdine University – Where Lincoln serves as Dean of the Fine Arts DivisionTopics * What the pursuit of beauty means for a Christian artist* C.S. Lewis, childhood imagination, and “glimpses of joy”* Time, tempo, and atemporality in music* Messiaen, color, gesture, and musical transcendence* Orthodox chant, Renaissance counterpoint, and sacred listening* Writing Liza Sinesti with pianist Paul Barnes* The church’s relationship to contemporary sacred art* Serving faithfully as an artist beyond the worship service* Lincoln’s current work as Dean of Fine Arts at Pepperdine* Advice for young composers discerning their vocationBeauty through Faith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

As we come to the close of the year, we want to invite you to consider making a year-end gift to support the work of the Kalos Arts FoundationThis short video is a reflection from our Executive Director, Gustav Hoyer and Board Member and Secretary Benjamin Harding, on what it means to give to an organization like Kalos and why generosity plays a vital role in bringing beauty into the world.At Kalos, we believe that God discloses His beauty not only through the created order, but through His people and the works of excellence they pursue. When these works are nurtured, they become windows, gateways, through which others may encounter HimWhen you give to Kalos, your donation is not just a transaction. It is enablement. Your gift directly supports artists who are engaging their faith professionally and offering their work to the world with care, integrity, and excellence. Through your generosity, you help shape the kinds of art, conversations, and cultural contributions that fill our communitiesMany of us already spend money on entertainment after the moment of creation has passed. Giving to Kalos allows you to invest earlier—to participate in the formation of work that reflects God’s truth and beauty before it exists. In giving, you are making a statement about what you value and the kind of world you want to help formAs we close out the year, we are asking for your help to continue this work. Your year-end donation directly supports artists, events, and programs that bring beauty into public life and point beyond themselves to God.If you believe in this mission, we invite you to give today.Support our mission by clicking here. Thank you for supporting the mission of Kalos Arts Foundation. Happy Holidays and we hope you have a great year. In Christ, Kalos Art Foundation Thanks for reading Beauty through Faith! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding and Gustav Hoyer engage with Dr. Chelle Stearns, an independent scholar and musician, to explore the relationship between beauty, music, and theology. Together, they reflect on how beauty is defined through the face of Christ, how music forms faith beyond utility, and why artistic vocation is often misunderstood within church contexts.The conversation delves into musical dissonance, the philosophical and theological legacy of composers such as Arnold Schoenberg, and the role of listening as a form of spiritual formation. Drawing on composers including Haydn, James MacMillan, and Henryk Górecki, Chelle shares how music can become a language of prayer—especially in experiences of lament, suffering, and transformation. Throughout the episode, listeners are invited to consider how deep listening can reshape theological understanding and open new pathways for faith.LinksMore about Chelle* The Seattle SchoolBooks and Articles * Handling Dissonance: A Musical Theological Aesthetic of Unity — Chelle Stearns* Till We Have Faces — C. S. Lewis* Real Presences — George Steiner* Academia.eduComposers & Works* Joseph Haydn — The Seven Last Words of Christ* James MacMillan — Seven Last Words from the Cross* Henryk Górecki — Symphony No. 3 (Symphony of Sorrowful Songs)* Arnold SchoenbergInstitutions & Organizations* George MacDonald Society* University of St. Andrews (Institute for Theology, Imagination, and the Arts)* Museum of the Bible* Society for Christian Scholarship in MusicTakeaways* Beauty is not decorative but formative.* Beauty can clarify or obscure what we truly need, depending on how it is pursued.* Music offers a language of prayer when words fail.* Artistic vocation is often misunderstood when judged primarily by utility.* Dissonance reflects the complexity of human experience and faith.* Listening deeply is itself a spiritual discipline.* Music can create encounters that precede explanation or belief.* Lament and suffering can be voiced truthfully through sound.* Engaging unfamiliar music can expand theological imagination.* Faith is shaped not only by doctrine, but by encounter.Beauty through Faith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding sits down with Vinicius Barbosa Pippa, a gifted film composer and musician. Together, they explore the nature of beauty, the pursuit of meaning, and the way these have shaped Vinicius’s life and vocation.Vinicius reflects on his music-filled childhood in Brazil, his artistic formation, and his path into film scoring in the United States. He shares how faith reshaped his creative life, the interior challenges he’s faced in the industry, and the profound themes behind his recent work on the documentary Live Not By Lies. Their conversation weaves through creativity, truth, spirituality, and the transformative role of beauty.Links:• Vinicius’s Substack Publication (the headquarters of his creative work): • Vinicius’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/vinicius.barbosa.pippa/Takeaways* Beauty found Vinicius through music from a young age.* His father, a doctor, was a passionate musician.* Vinicius pursued music formally in his teenage years in Brazil.* He was inspired by 70s British classic rock, especially Led Zeppelin.* Film music has always been a significant influence on his work.* Vinicius learned Brazilian rhythms to stand out as a drummer.* His approach to composition is intuitive, influenced by his drumming background.* He experienced a spiritual emptiness despite career success.* Vinicius’s faith journey began after moving to California.* He wrote songs for the documentary ‘Live Not By Lies’ inspired by real-life stories.Beauty through Faith is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Thank you for listening to Beauty through Faith! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

In this conversation, Wes Hurd discusses the nature of authentic artwork, emphasizing that it originates from a deep, often mysterious place within the artist. He explains how this inner creativity manifests on the canvas, sometimes beyond the artist’s control, resulting in unique marks and imagery that reflect the artist’s true self.About Wes HurdOdyssey of These Days Paintings About the McKenzie Study Center BIOGRAPHYWesley Hurd was born in Claremont, California in 1946. He studied fine art and art education at Southern Oregon College graduating in 1967. Wesley and his family have lived on the west and east coasts of the U.S. and London, England. He and his wife, Carol, have lived in Eugene, Oregon since 1977. He began his present studio practice in 1989. He has a graduate degree in theology and a Ph.D. in education concentrating in educational philosophy and social thought. He received his M.F.A. in painting from the University of Oregon in 2000. Wesley was a recipient of two graduate fellowships at the University of Oregon. He has taught as an adjunct assistant professor at the University of Oregon. He is an adjunct tutor at Gutenberg College, Eugene, Oregon. Wesley is currently a free-lance lecturer and mentor specializing in modern and contemporary visual art and serves as Director of BlueTower Arts Foundation also in Eugene, Oregon.Takeaways Wes Hurd’s journey in art began in Claremont, California.Beauty has always been a vital center to his concerns.Art serves as a special language for human expression.The McKenzie Study Center was pivotal in his artistic development.Art can bridge conversations between believers and non-believers.Hurd’s work addresses both beauty and darkness.Forgiveness and mercy are beautiful aspects of life.Artistic expression can lead to community engagement.Hurd’s artistic style has evolved over decades.The response to his work from the church community has been overwhelmingly positive. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Beauty Through Faith podcast, host Gustav Hoyer engages with pianist Rebekah Stiles to explore the intersection of art, beauty, and faith. They discuss the significance of beauty in the Christian tradition, the role of different musical traditions, and the impact of church and secular contexts on artistic expression. Rebekah shares her insights on the importance of the performer in music, the communal aspect of art, and her future pursuits in both the church and the broader artistic community.Rebekah Stiles at Cairn UniversityRebekah Stiles at the Csehy Summer School of Music BiographyOriginally from Souderton, PA, Rebekah Stiles is a pianist and educator working at the intersection of theology and the arts. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Piano Performance and Bible from Cairn University and a M. Mus. and D.M.A. in Piano Performance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.As a performer and collaborator, Stiles has exercised her versatility in the solo, chamber, and church settings. Her recent solo recitals have featured the works of Liszt, Schubert, Rameau, Janáček, Bartók, and Barber, and she has given solo performances both locally and internationally. In 2019, she received first-place honors in the Crescendo International Music Competition, delivering a winner’s performance at Carnegie Hall. In 2022 and 2023, she participated in the Piano Plus Festival in Xanthi, Greece, and she has performed in masterclasses with Arnaldo Cohen, the Naughton Duo, Behzod Abduraimov, and Emanuel Ax. As a collaborative musician, Stiles has performed three times as soloist with orchestra, performing with the Cairn Symphony Orchestra in 2019 and with the UNL Symphony Orchestra in 2022 and 2023. During her time at Cairn, she specialized in piano duet repertoire, and she has since expanded her scope to encompass a wide variety of works, including George Walker’s Music for 3, Shostakovich’s Piano Quintet in G minor, and the world premiere of Heinrich Biber’s complete rosary sonatas for viola and continuo, transcribed by Gabriel Forero. She has also led a fruitful career as a church pianist since 2013.Stiles currently works as a member of the adjunct music faculty at Cairn University as well as an Affiliate Artist, maintaining a private studio and teaching courses in piano pedagogy, performance, and theology of worship. From 2020-2024, she held graduate teaching assistantships and fellowships from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she served as an instructor of record within the Keyboard Skills program. In addition, she served for two years as Assistant Coordinator for the Lincoln Community Piano Experience, a recreational group piano course for adults. As studio assistant to Dr. Paul Barnes, she has regularly taught privately on the undergraduate level, as well as conducting studio classes and serving as lecturer in the graduate Piano Literature course. Outside of academia, Stiles has served as faculty for the Lied Center Piano Academy, as well as the Csehy Summer School of Music. She also takes joy in working with private students of all levels, and she manages an independent piano studio in the Bucks County area.As a scholar, Stiles is deeply interested in the intersection of worldview and art, specifically the musical implications of major theological rifts within Christendom. Her doctoral dissertation, “Creed and Variations,” explored the musical trichotomy of Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant traditions, featuring select works of J. S. Bach, Olivier Messiaen, and Arvo Pärt.Takeaways:The pursuit of beauty is fundamentally a pursuit of God.Beauty in art should transcend superficiality and reflect deeper truths.Art and theology are inseparable in the exploration of beauty.Different musical traditions offer unique expressions of beauty.The role of the church is vital in supporting artistic endeavors.Art can serve as a bridge to communicate spiritual truths.Performers play a crucial role in bringing compositions to life.Engaging with secular contexts can be an evangelistic opportunity.Christian art should challenge and provoke thought.The communal aspect of art reflects the nature of the Trinity. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

The recording of today’s episode has an interesting backstory. Among many things, I am a piano technician. On the day of this recording I was tuning in southeastern Pennsylvania in Bucks County. I found the perfect, quiet rural road to pull over and record this conversation. It was idyllic. There was a farm house nearby - looked to be from the colonial era. Well - Gustav Hoyer and I began the conversation with our guest and a truck pulled up beside me. A white pickup with a man who asked, “Everything ok? I work here and got a call saying that there was a car parked on the side of the road.”Now keep in mind that this is a public road and I am safely off to the side. I assured the driver that I was fine and was just recording a podcast. At this point it is occurring to me that this farm house might be the home of someone very famous. I had seen pictures of this house in the paper recently and it was beginning to click that this could indeed be Bradley Cooper’s home. Then about 10 minutes later, the same driver came by and asked me to take off - that since I had a clear line of sight to the house and that this was private property I needed to leave. I assured him that I was recording a podcast on my phone and that if I could have about 5 minutes more I would indeed leave and apologized for any trouble I may have caused. It was an adventure, friends. And then - I called my sister who is a realtor. She said that it also could have been a home purchased by Taylor Swift in that location…The lengths and bounds that we go to on Beauty through Faith are immeasurable but we will continue to attempt to bring you great content to encourage you to seek and pursue beauty through faith!Welcome to Beauty through Faith; the podcast of the Kalos Arts Foundation. I’m Benjamin Harding. Today’s episode is a conversation with the founder of the Christos Collective, Sandy Ceas. Sandy is a brilliant artist who has had many different kinds of career paths from fashion design to educator at Colorado State University to founding the Christos Collective to being an internationally recognized artist with her work featured globally. The Christos Collective is a wonderful organization whose mission is to: To cultivate artists of Christian faith to embrace their vocation as ambassadors of the Holy Spirit, and impact culture through their art and art practice. You find out more information about Sandy and the Christos Collective via https://christoscollective.orgIn this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding, Sandy Ceas, and Gustav Hoyer explore the intricate relationship between beauty, art, and Christian faith. Sandy discusses the challenges and responsibilities of artists in conveying truth and goodness through their work, emphasizing the importance of beauty as a tool for spiritual engagement. The conversation delves into the role of art in the church, the need for quiet contemplation in a noisy world, and the stewardship of beauty in both secular and sacred contexts. Sandy shares her journey from fashion design to fine art, highlighting the transformative power of art in communicating God’s message. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty Through Faith! I’m your host, Benjamin Harding. Today we are joined by Dr. Junius Johnson—theologian, author, and lover of story. Dr. Johnson is a featured speaker at our Beauty Through Faith Conference happening this weekend in Fort Collins, Colorado.Dr. Johnson has written profound works including Father of Lights and On Teaching Fairy Stories, and you can explore more of his work at his website: www.juniusjohnson.com.In today’s conversation led by Gustav Hoyer, our executive director, we’ll dive into his vision of how beauty, imagination, and the life of faith intersect in ways that awaken wonder and renew the soul. He gives a little preview of what is happening this weekend too! ✨ And friends—don’t wait. The Beauty Through Faith Conference is just days away! We’ll gather with musicians, scholars, artists, and pastors for a rich time of conversation, encounter, and fellowship. Get your tickets today at www.kalosarts.org. Let’s get into this inspiring conversation with Dr. Junius Johnson. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty Through Faith. I’m your host, Benjamin Harding, and today I’m really excited to sit down with Brian Brown, the Executive Director of the Anselm Society. Brian’s not only a good friend of our work, he’s also going to be one of the featured speakers at our upcoming Rocky Mountain Kalos Beauty Through Faith Conference on September 26th and 27th.Now, if you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, you’ll want to—because we’ve put together such a rich lineup. We’ll be hearing from Dr. Junius Johnson, pianist Dr. Paul Barnes, violinist Teimu Janikashvili, Joffre Swait, composer N. Lincoln Hanks, and our own Executive Director, Gustav Hoyer.We’ll kick things off Friday night, September 26th at 7:30 with a plenary session led by Dr. Johnson. He’s going to help us think more clearly about the nature and the reward of encountering beauty. And right alongside his words, we’ll get to hear the artistry of Paul Barnes and Teemu Janikashvili—bringing those ideas to life through music.Then Saturday is packed with variety: sessions on theology, practical creativity, visual art, poetry, and of course, more music. We’ll hear from Fr. Jeremy Rand, from Brian Brown, and enjoy the music of N. Lincoln Hanks. It’s going to be a really memorable time together, and I hope you’ll join us in Fort Collins.And if you’re in the Colorado Springs area the weekend before—September 19th and 20th—the Anselm Society is hosting A Long Expected Feast to celebrate Bilbo and Frodo’s birthday. It’s going to be a weekend of learning, feasting, and those moments where you meet someone and think, “You too? I thought I was the only one.” You can find all the details at AnselmSociety.org.There’s so much happening in the world of Anselm and in the world of beauty. So, let’s jump in. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of Beauty Through Faith, Benjamin Harding speaks with Dr. Paul Barnes and Gustav Hoyer about the upcoming Rocky Mountain Conference on September 26 and 27, 2025, their musical collaborations, and the intersection of faith and art. They explore the significance of new compositions, the beauty of Orthodox music, and the transformative power of artistic expression in relation to spirituality. The conversation delves into the nature of reality, the role of imagination, and the importance of perceiving beauty as a reflection of Divine Love.You can be a part of this life-changing conference on September 26 and 27, 2025 by signing up at www.kalosarts.org. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

We’re delighted to welcome Joffre Swait as our guest on this episode of the Beauty Through Faith Podcast. Joffre is a writer, thinker, and cultural commentator whose work draws out the deep connections between imagination, faith, and the way beauty shapes our lives. He will also be joining us this fall as part of the lineup for the Rocky Mountain Regional Conference of the Kalos Arts Foundation in Fort Collins, Colorado.In our conversation, Joffre reflects on how the Church speaks powerfully through art—not as decoration or entertainment, but as a living voice that calls us to truth, hope, and renewal. He invites us to consider the necessity of beauty in our fractured cultural moment and to see how imagination can be a pathway into deeper faith and communion.This dialogue is just a glimpse of what you can expect at the conference, where artists, theologians, and seekers will gather for a rare and meaningful space of shared discovery.🌄 About the Rocky Mountain ConferenceThe Kalos Arts Foundation exists to bring the living voice of the Church, spoken through art, into the world. Our conferences are the heart of this mission—times where beauty and faith are not only discussed, but experienced.The Rocky Mountain Conference will take place on Friday, September 26 (7:00 PM) through Saturday, September 27 (5:00 PM) in Fort Collins, CO. It will feature a rich and varied program with:* Dr. Junius Johnson – theologian and writer* Dr. Paul Barnes – pianist* Teimuraz Janikashvili – violinist* Fr. Jeromie Rand – pastor and scholar* Brian Brown – cultural leader* Vocal ensemble Attuned* The music of composer N. Lincoln HanksIn addition to the formal sessions, the conference will provide space for ad hoc conversations, meals, and community exploration—a rare environment for artists, theologians, and participants to encourage one another and dive deeply into the life of Beauty.✨ In This Episode You’ll Hear:* Joffre Swait on why the Church must be heard through art* Reflections on beauty, imagination, and cultural renewal* A preview of the themes Joffre will share at the Rocky Mountain Conference* Why gathering in community around beauty is essential for both artists and the Church🎟️ Learn more and register for the Rocky Mountain Conference at kalosarts.org. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty through Faith, a podcast of the Kalos Arts Foundation. Experience Beauty through Faith this fall at our 2025 Rocky Mountain Regional Conference in Fort Collins, Colorado, on September 26th and 27th. Be inspired by the power of faith and creativity—visit kalosarts.org for details and registration.Today we welcome Melanie Penn—a classically trained vocalist and songwriter based in Nashville. From her early career in New York’s theater scene, including starring as Sandy in the national Broadway tour of Grease! alongside Frankie Avalon, to her years as a worship leader at Redeemer Presbyterian Church under Tim Keller’s leadership, Melanie’s journey reflects a unique blend of artistry and faith.She has released multiple albums with producer Ben Shive, including Wake Up Love, Hope Tonight, and More Alive, Volumes 1 and 2. Her 2017 concept album Immanuel—a musical journey through the Christmas story—reached #1 on Amazon’s Christian, Worship, and Holiday charts. Her newest project, The Rising: A Resurrection Album, will be released throughout 2025.You can learn more at melaniepenn.com.Your support is crucial in helping the Kalos Art Foundation continue its mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or attending events, there are many ways to get involved. By supporting the foundation, you are helping to nurture the talents of Christian artists and promote their work to a broader audience. Please consider making a financial donation to help us continue our work. Visit our website to learn more about how you can contribute.SummaryIn this episode, Melanie Penn shares her journey as a classically trained vocalist and songwriter, discussing the intersection of beauty, faith, and artistry. She reflects on her experiences in the musical theater world, the influence of Tim Keller, and the importance of pursuing excellence in her work. The conversation delves into her latest project, 'The Rising,' which explores the resurrection of Christ, and the challenges artists face in balancing their faith with the commercial aspects of the art world. Melanie emphasizes the significance of beauty in truth-telling and the role of the church in supporting artists.Chapters00:00 The Pursuit of Beauty01:51 Crafting Music and Truth04:50 Influence of Tim Keller07:58 Excellence in Artistry10:52 Connecting with the Audience14:03 Emerging from Darkness17:39 Faith in the Arts23:44 The Pursuit of Beauty in Culture24:21 The Role of the Church in Supporting Artists27:39 Navigating the Commercial Art World31:17 Exploring Non-Explicitly Christian Art35:19 The Excitement of New Projects39:28 The Creative Process and Collaboration This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty through Faith a podcast of the Kalos Arts Foundation. On today’s episode, Gustav Hoyer and I had the privilege of speaking with the fine-artist, Josh Tiessen. Josh was born in 1995 in Moscow, Russia to Canadian parents. He is an international award-winning contemporary artist based near Toronto, Ontario. Tiessen is best known for his hyper-surreal shaped oil paintings, which take up to 1700 hours to complete, and reflect the interaction between the natural world and human-made structures. Please visit his website for more information and of course his artwork: https://www.joshtiessen.com/Experience Beauty Through Faith! Join us for the 2025 Rocky Mountain Regional Conference in Fort Collins, CO on September 26th and 27th. This is our first Rocky Mountain Region - Beauty Through Faith Conference. Come and be inspired by the power of faith and creativity. Visit kalosarts.org for more information and to register.Your support is crucial in helping the Kalos Art Foundation continue its mission. Whether through donations, volunteering, or attending events, there are many ways to get involved. By supporting the foundation, you are helping to nurture the talents of Christian artists and promote their work to a broader audience. Please consider making a financial donation to help us continue our work. Visit our website at www.kalosarts.org to learn more about how you can contribute. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Title: The Pursuit of Beauty: Wonder, Culture, and TheologyGuest: Dr. Junius JohnsonPodcast: Beauty Through FaithHost: Gustav HoyerEpisode Summary:In this captivating episode, we welcome theologian and author Dr. Junius Johnson alongside composer and executive director of Kalos, Gustav Hoyer for a rich conversation on beauty, wonder, and the role of imagination in faith and culture. Together, we explore how beauty is not just ornament but a portal—into deeper truth, into divine mystery, and into the transformation of our inner and outer worlds.Junius offers reflections on the theology of beauty and the formative power of the imagination. From the classical tradition to the modern stage, Gustav and Junius invite us to consider beauty not as escape, but as encounter.Topics Discussed:* What the pursuit of beauty really means* How imagination shapes theological vision* Art as a response to divine invitation* The role of cultural formation in the Christian life* Beauty as a bridge between heaven and earth* Wonder as resistance in an age of disenchantmentAbout Our Guest:Dr. Junius Johnson is a scholar of theology and philosophy with deep interests in beauty, imagination, and classical Christian thought. He is the founder of Junius Johnson Academics and the author of several books including The Father of Lights.Resources & Links:* Junius Johnson AcademicsConnect with Us:Subscribe & review wherever you get your podcasts! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Episode Title: The Pursuit of Beauty: Wonder, Culture, and TheologyGuest: Dr. Junius JohnsonPodcast: Beauty Through FaithHost: Gustav HoyerEpisode Summary:In this captivating episode, we welcome theologian and author Dr. Junius Johnson alongside composer and executive director of Kalos, Gustav Hoyer for a rich conversation on beauty, wonder, and the role of imagination in faith and culture. Together, we explore how beauty is not just ornament but a portal—into deeper truth, into divine mystery, and into the transformation of our inner and outer worlds.Junius offers reflections on the theology of beauty and the formative power of the imagination. From the classical tradition to the modern stage, Gustav and Junius invite us to consider beauty not as escape, but as encounter.Topics Discussed:* What the pursuit of beauty really means* How imagination shapes theological vision* Art as a response to divine invitation* The role of cultural formation in the Christian life* Beauty as a bridge between heaven and earth* Wonder as resistance in an age of disenchantmentAbout Our Guest:Dr. Junius Johnson is a scholar of theology and philosophy with deep interests in beauty, imagination, and classical Christian thought. He is the founder of Junius Johnson Academics and the author of several books including The Father of Lights.Resources & Links:* Junius Johnson AcademicsConnect with Us:Subscribe & review wherever you get your podcasts! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty through Faith, a podcast brought to you by the Kalos Arts Foundation. I'm your host, Benjamin Harding, and I am so glad you're joining us today.In this episode, I had the joy of sitting down with Ned Bustard—an influential voice in the conversation around faith and the arts within the evangelical and Protestant world. Ned has been shaping this space for decades, most notably through his publishing house, Square Halo Books, which continues to release thoughtful and inspiring works.One book I'm especially enjoying right now is Lifting the Veil: Imagination and the Kingdom of God by Malcolm Guite—published exclusively by Square Halo. It's a rich and imaginative read that I highly recommend.But Ned’s contributions go far beyond publishing—he’s also a gifted visual artist. Many of you may know his work from the beloved Every Moment Holy series by Rabbit Room Press, which is one of my personal favorites.It was truly a blessing to have this conversation with someone who has so deeply impacted the world of faith and creativity. I hope you find it as encouraging and insightful as I did.As always, you’ll find links and more details in the show notes. Now, let’s dive in!Square Halo Books can be found here: https://www.squarehalobooks.com/A direct link to the Square Halo Conference: https://www.squarehalobooks.com/conferences#/2026-conference/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty through Faith, where we explore how divine truth, goodness, and beauty shape our lives and our world. I’m your host, Benjamin Harding, and today I’m honored to welcome Father John Strickland—Orthodox priest, historian, and author of the acclaimed Paradise and Utopia series.In this episode, we’ll delve into how sacred beauty and Christian tradition speak to the soul of modern culture, and what it means to reclaim a vision of heaven on earth. Stay with us—this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.Father John’s website: https://www.johnstrickland.org/Father John’s podcast: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/paradiseutopia/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

www.eliotgrasso.comEliot Grasso is one of the foremost Irish musicians in North America. Critics say that his “intuitive sense of melodic and technical variation make him one of the most creative and dynamic musicians in the contemporary world of Irish traditional music,” and “one of the finest uilleann pipers in the history of Irish music in America.”He has performed for the National Heritage Awards, for President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton at the National Endowment for the Arts Awards, for Irish President Mary Robinson, Irish Ambassador to the United States Sean O hUigin, Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern, President of Sinn Féin Gerry Adams, and other heads of state.Eliot has performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Constitution Hall, the Library of Congress, the National Building Museum, National Geographic, the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral (Dublin, Ireland), Sterling Castle (Sterling, Scotland), and the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall (Baltimore, MD).He has also appeared as a guest artist on National Public Radio for “A Prairie Home Companion” with Garrison Keillor, and for RTE’s Irish traditional music program “The Rolling Wave,” presented by Peter Browne in Dublin, Ireland. Eliot has performed with actor Russell Crowe, The Chieftains, the Green Fields of America, Distinguished Global Professor of Ethnomusicology Dr. Mick Moloney, and Ensemble Galilei.Dr. Eliot Grasso currently serves as Vice President of Gutenberg College, a classical Liberal Arts college, where he teaches music, art, philosophy, and history. He holds a Ph.D. in musicology from the University of Oregon, a M.A. in ethnomusicology from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick in Ireland, and a B.A. in music from Goucher College.SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Dr. Eliot Grasso, a prominent figure in Irish traditional music and an academic, shares his journey through music, education, and the pursuit of beauty, truth, and goodness. He reflects on the influence of his family and community in shaping his musical identity, the aesthetic experience of music, and the importance of teaching as a means to cultivate humanity. Dr. Grasso emphasizes the significance of love and human connection in education and the arts, while also discussing his current projects and the technical aspects of the uilleann pipes. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the role of art in the church and society, advocating for a deeper engagement with beauty and creativity.TakeawaysDr. Grasso grew up in a musical household, influencing his love for music.The community played a significant role in his musical development.Beauty in music is tied to order, clarity, and emotional impact.Teaching is about helping students realize their value beyond performance.Education should allow space for personal and cultural complexities.Love is essential in human relationships and education.Music can help individuals access their humanity in a fast-paced world.Current projects include improvisational music and essential uilleann piping tunes.The uilleann pipes have unique tuning and technical aspects that influence performance.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Uilleann Pipes and Musical Background02:08 The Aesthetic Experience of Music04:57 Teaching and the Pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty08:18 The Role of Education in Personal Development10:57 The Importance of Love in Education14:04 The Master-Apprentice Model in Music Education17:00 The Significance of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty20:03 The Impact of Efficiency on Humanity23:14 Current Projects and Future Aspirations26:19 The Uilleann Pipe: Structure and Tuning29:09 Humanizing Music and the Art of Interpretation32:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Today we are presenting an episode recorded in the Fall of 2024 with Dr. Paul Barnes. Visit Paul’s website at www.paulbarnes.net. I mention a lecture that he gave to the LMTA. You can find that brilliant lecture here: His YouTube channel is filled with performances and lectures that you will be sure to enjoy. SummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Dr. Paul Barnes discusses the rising mental health issues among youth, emphasizing the importance of beauty and faith in addressing these challenges. He explores the role of art and music in connecting individuals to deeper meanings and the divine, while also reflecting on his experiences in the Orthodox Church and the reception of beauty in both secular and religious contexts. The discussion highlights the significance of being 'plugged in' to a source of energy for personal and communal growth, and the ontological understanding of salvation as a holistic experience. Dr. Barnes also shares valuable resources for those seeking to pursue beauty in their lives and work.Takeaways:Mental health issues are rising among the youth.Beauty can serve as a pathway to deeper understanding.Faith plays a crucial role in artistic expression.The church has a significant impact on the reception of beauty.Connecting music to mental health is vital for student success.Being plugged into a source of energy is essential for growth.Salvation is an ontological experience, not just a spiritual one.The kingdom of heaven is present in our lives today.There are many resources available for pursuing beauty.Art and beauty are essential for a meaningful life.Chapters00:00 The Concept of Re-Enchantment01:10 Beauty as a Pathway to Meaning03:43 The Role of Music in Spiritual Connection06:48 Commissioning New Works and Artistic Collaboration09:55 The Church's Response to Artistic Expression13:06 Connecting Music and Mental Health16:11 The Importance of Being Plugged into Divine Energy18:50 The Role of Beauty in Salvation21:57 Upcoming Projects and Tours24:50 Resources for Pursuing BeautyPaul mentions these books in the podcast:https://store.ancientfaith.com/paradise-and-utopia-4-book-set/ Father John Strickland’s 4 volume serieshttps://www.amazon.com/Journey-Reality-Sacramental-Life-Secular/dp/1955890625Zachary Porcu's book: Journey to Reality: Sacramental Life in a Secular Age https://a.co/d/8frPG1aRod Dreher’s book: Living in Wonder: Finding Mystery and Meaning in a Secular Age This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Gustav is a composer and conductor of orchestral music who has a history of producing unconventional multi-media live events across the United States. From mixed media orchestral concerts in Los Angeles to producing the powerful stage drama, Acts, the 3-Man Show, he has worked with Christian artists to bring compelling works of excellence to audiences within and outside the church. He lives with his family in Colorado. He, along with Benjamin Harding, founded the Kalos Arts Foundation to cultivate the voice of the church through the arts. Please visit our website www.kalosarts.org. KeywordsKalos Arts Foundation, beauty, faith, art, community, church, artists, creation, mission, cultureSummaryIn this conversation, Benjamin Harding and Gustav Hoyer discuss the mission and vision of the Kalos Arts Foundation, an organization dedicated to nurturing artists of faith and creating beautiful works that reflect Christian values. They explore the challenges faced by artists in both the church and secular art worlds, the importance of beauty in the Christian life, and the urgency of their mission in today's cultural landscape. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support and collaboration to bring forth new artistic expressions that resonate with future generations.TakeawaysKalos Arts Foundation aims to support artists committed to their faith.The organization focuses on nurturing the artist first, believing that their work is a reflection of their faith.Art can serve as a powerful form of evangelism and cultural engagement.Beauty is a vital aspect of the Christian life and should be pursued alongside truth and goodness.The mission of Kalos is to create enduring artworks that will impact future generations.Artists often struggle to find a platform for their work within the church and the secular art world.Kalos seeks to provide resources and support for artists to create and showcase their work.The urgency of Kalos is driven by the current cultural climate and the need for a distinct Christian voice in the arts.The organization encourages community involvement and financial support to sustain its mission.Kalos is about completing the work of creation through artistic expression. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kalos Arts Foundation03:26 The Mission and Vision of Kalos08:25 The Role of Beauty in Faith13:10 Engaging Artists and the Community16:43 The Importance of Creation and Naming21:43 How to Get Involved with Kalos26:22 The Urgency of Kalos in Today's Culture31:11 The Historical Context of Art in the Church36:04 The Meaning Behind 'Kalos' and Its Significance40:38 Funding and Supporting the Arts45:23 Conclusion and Future Directions This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to Beauty Through Faith, a podcast where art, beauty, and our Christian faith converge to create meaningful conversations about life, creativity, and the divine. I’m your host, Benjamin Harding, and I am truly honored to have you here with us today. This podcast is brought to you by the Kalos Arts Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to inspiring and nurturing the intersection of faith and creativity.Now, whether you're a lover of art, someone looking to deepen your spiritual journey, or simply curious about the ways in which beauty and faith intertwine in our lives, you’ve come to the right place. Over the course of this series, we will explore how art, in all its forms, can open us up to a deeper understanding of ourselves, our faith, and the world around us.As we kick off today’s episode, I want to take a moment to talk about the purpose behind Beauty Through Faith and the incredible work that the Kalos Arts Foundation is doing to encourage creative expression rooted in faith.The Kalos Arts Foundation believes that art has the power to touch the soul, inspire change, and invite us to reflect on the divine beauty that exists in our world. It’s an organization that champions the artists who explore faith through their craft, whether that’s visual art, music, dance, or theater. We believe that creativity is a reflection of the Creator and that through our creative endeavors, we can honor God, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact on the world.Each episode of Beauty Through Faith will bring you closer to artists, theologians, creatives, and thinkers who are using their gifts to share beauty with the world. We will be speaking to painters, filmmakers, musicians, dancers, and writers, all of whom are committed to integrating their faith with their art. Together, we’ll explore how the creative process can be an act of worship and how the act of making art can become a prayer itself.But, let’s be honest—there’s more to beauty than just what meets the eye. In our conversations, we’ll unpack how true beauty transcends the surface, reaching into the depths of our hearts and souls. We’ll ask questions like: What does it mean to create with a sense of purpose? How can we use our talents to serve others and glorify God? And how does beauty—whether it's found in nature, in a painting, or in a piece of music—point us back to the Creator?We’ll also be exploring some of the challenges and struggles that come with being an artist of faith in today’s world. It’s not always easy to reconcile faith with the pressures of the art industry, but it’s a journey that’s full of growth, reflection, and transformation.At the heart of this podcast, we believe that art is not just something to be admired—it’s something that can help us experience God in new and unexpected ways. We live in a world where, at times, it feels like beauty can be hard to come by. But as people of faith, we’re invited to see the beauty that already exists in the world, even in the midst of pain, suffering, and chaos. This is where the intersection of beauty and faith becomes so profound. It’s about looking for God’s presence in the unexpected, embracing the brokenness that can make art so raw and real, and seeing the world through a lens of grace and wonder.Today, we’re setting the stage for all the beautiful conversations we’re going to have throughout this podcast series. We’re going to be introducing some exciting guests who will share their stories of faith, their creative processes, and how they navigate the world of art as believers. You’ll hear from musicians who compose songs of hope, painters who reflect the divine through their brushstrokes, writers who capture the beauty of the human experience, and so much more. These conversations will inspire you, challenge you, and invite you to reflect on how your own creative journey might be shaped by your faith.But before we dive deeper into those inspiring stories, I want to take a moment to talk about the heart behind the Kalos Arts Foundation. Founded by a group of passionate individuals who believe that art and faith are inseparable, the Kalos Arts Foundation exists to equip and encourage artists who are living out their faith through their work. From mentorship programs to grants and exhibitions, the foundation provides a platform for artists to showcase their work and connect with like-minded individuals who share their commitment to creating art that reflects the beauty and truth of the gospel.The word ‘Kalos’ comes from the Greek word for ‘beautiful’—but it’s not just about external beauty. It’s about beauty that is rooted in goodness, truth, and wholeness. It’s a beauty that reflects the very nature of God Himself. And that’s what we hope to bring to you in this podcast—beauty that isn’t just seen, but felt, experienced, and lived.So whether you’re tuning in as an artist, a lover of beauty, or someone who is simply curious about the intersection of creativity and faith, we hope this podcast encourages you to see the world with new eyes. We hope it sparks your own creative journey, and most importantly, we hope it reminds you that beauty is not just something we create—it’s something that we receive from the Creator, and it’s a gift that’s meant to be shared with the world.So thank you for being part of this journey. We’re so excited to have you here with us. And remember—beauty isn’t just something you observe; it’s something you live. Let’s discover that beauty together.Stay tuned for more episodes, and don’t forget to subscribe to Beauty Through Faith wherever you listen to your podcasts. We can’t wait to share more inspiring stories with you. Until next time, may you find beauty in all things. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit beautythroughfaith.substack.com/subscribe