The Arts

In an effort to further expose and elevate the important role of the visual arts within WELS and to reinforce the overall knowledge of applying the visual arts to worshiping and glorifying God — we share these art activities that will be part of the 2024 WELS Worship Conference.

Liturgical Arts

The liturgical artwork for the worship services is designed and created by Bethany College art students under the supervision of Jason Jaspersen. Visual components will be included into the various worship services to enrich and edify the gatherings of God’s people.

Working Artist

There will be a working artist on site during the conference. Alicia Ulm, professional artist, will be demonstrating her printmaking processes. Printmaking has served in the past as a way of communicating visually the Gospel truths and continues today to be a valuable media to reach into contemporary art discussions.

Art Exhibit

An art exhibit from the Sandra Bowden Collection – “Come! The Table is Ready” is a visual invitation to celebrate gathering with family and friends, but also with those of common faith around the table of our Lord. The table is one of the foremost places of human connection. It is a rich metaphor, a place of gathering, a place of blessing, and a place where we share and serve. Artwork by historic artists such as Durer, Rembrandt, Kokoschka, Jasper Johns, and Sadao Watanabe, as well as contemporary pieces by Wayne Adams, Tanja Butler, and Nicora Gangi, all offer fresh insights into the meaning of the table and gathering together.

Visual Display

There will be a visual display of artwork produced in conjunction with the WELS Multi-Language Publications that will be used for Gospel outreach overseas.

Illustrations

Original artwork created by Maida Jaspersen that will be part of a new upcoming illustrated book based on celebrating the act of God’s creation.