Phillip Martin Books
In my recent post, Arrogance and Apologies, I mistakenly used clipart from a talented muralist named Phillip Martin. I had assumed that the site where I gleaned the clipart had permission to post his work. Just in case, I asked. It was after the fact, but I could have taken the blog and the picture down. He graciously granted me permission to keep the artwork up. To be treated so kindly by such a talented artist was very nice.
As I studied his website, I decided my youngest grandkids needed some of his books. I sent away for several, and they arrived today. The stories are clever and entertaining, and the art work is phenomenal!
What I found most interesting won’t surprise my regular readers – if indeed there are any out there! You all know I love a good backstory, and Mr. Martin has given backstories about his murals on his website. He shares how he came to start his work and how he has had ‘coincidental’ encounters with people who then brought him to their countries or cities to share his talent.
He has painted in places around the world and includes all sorts of information about the places in his website. He explains some of his inspiration and some of the process. I love it that he involves local adults and even children to help with the murals.
The pages he has for further investigation are worth looking at. With each mural’s story, he has teaching pages about each place, the culture, the people, and fun facts. There are even folk tales from the different countries.
If you know teachers who need a little lesson for their kids and something extra that is very informative, please point them to Mr. Martin’s website – phillipmartin.com.
I just have to throw in a thought or two. I think it is super interesting that God values the creative arts. He gave skill and knowledge to craftsmen through the ages. Some people have phenomenal talent. Some of us have to work at it. And some of us just piddle in the arts because it is fun.
What I want to say is this. If God has given you a creative mind and heart, don’t despise, waste, or misuse the gifts God has given you.
Creativity matters.
Blessings
KB
