Stories of Light

As a Mormon artist, I believe that our work is influenced by as much as we are diligent in who we are as individual believers of our faith, as well as how we may practice it. There are many who may think that we are limited in our capacities as artists in a secular world to solely doing works of a religious or purely secular nature; however, there remain many who have been able to achieve both, due to their own balances and belief systems that naturally come forth in their works.

We often express who we are in our work without intending to do so; we might include a phrase from scripture or other works that have influenced us greatly, or even quote an atheist who shares a point of view that we do. The point is, no matter what we do, our beliefs will be revealed. And, in a more biblical sense, “by their fruits ye shall know them.” Our works often speak volumes more about us. We are then left to determine and distinguish our jobs from our art. I think that, too often we see writers who especially leave their views out in the open intentionally, then end up coming off preachy with their pedantically didactic morals. Life is complicated, hence why our own belief systems will come out naturally, and don’t need to be forced to make an influence. We can do good by just being who we are, striving to become who we should be, and then living our lives and constantly creating in an attempt to achieve those goals.

As a result of this natural excretion of our own morals, so, too do others in their own works. Hence, we can find good works where there are good things to be found or people with solid belief systems – everyone is different, but we all strive to achieve in order to succeed. It is for this very reason that the most sincere generally rise to the top: Dostoyevsky wrote about his experiences without memoirs, as did Dickens and others, through their most compelling works, because they were true to themselves and sincere to their readers. We may work for money, but we are still to not lose ourselves in doing so and to continue to strive for truth and conscience in what we may find ourselves doing.

Story Time

Being LDS presents the world to us in a very unique way, especially when compared to the rest of the world – the artistic world, the scholarly world, all of it. We have an increased knowledge, and, we believe, a true knowledge that gives us added perspective on everything. We are indeed a peculiar people. I know lots of people who view this outlook and our standards as a hindrance to our lives. They don’t feel that we’re living them at our fullest. However, I think that being LDS gives us even more opportunities to do more with our life, especially when it comes to artistry. Our art is filmmaking and I truly believe that we as Mormon artists will be able to craft unique, honest, and completely appropriate stories that come from our experiences in life. I’m sure the missionaries among us each encountered scenes so extreme it was as though they came out of a movie. We have vastly different perspectives on family, violence and sexuality then the rest of the world. These perspectives are more important and righteous and things that are important to infuse into our work. We can find stories of light anywhere we look because we are looking through a unique lens. In many ways, being a Mormon would make us an interesting character in any film. I think it’s important to stress that compelling stories of light don’t need to conform to any strict Mormon mold. In my opinion, some of the most uplifting movies or stories only reach this level by portraying things that don’t comply with LDS standards. Sometimes it’s just because the characters use colorful language or the film shows the reality of war. Sometimes the subject matter is more serious, like when we see a drug addict lose his livelihood but come out on the other side. While many Mormon artists will never make films with such extreme subject matter, it is important to realize that with the right amount of compassion, any story about anything can become a compelling story that is filled with light

Stories of Light

    Being an artist is a hard, and somewhat tricky, thing to be. Artistry requires that one show parts of themselves that make them vulnerable in order to create the best art possible. As a Mormon, this can be even more difficult. In general, religiousness is not the most sought after thing in the popular arts today, however, I do feel as if it is important if a Mormon wants to keep their identity firmly etched in them. Since the best way for an artist to do well and be successful is for them to appeal to a large group of people, Mormons do have to be a bit careful. Although it is important to stand for what they (we) believe in, if they go around in a preachy way, they will not gain the respect they desire, or the attention their work may deserve. Also, when depicting stories, for example, they will need to do so in such a way that they do not go against what they stand for and believe in, which can be a very difficult thing to judge. However, if they can figure out this balance, then they will be able to better represent their values because others will already enjoy and admire them for their artistry.
    Though it may seem challenging to find stories of light to tell, if one really looks at the world around them, they will find them in abundance. Oftentimes, when one stops to really understand an individual's story, they will find it full of light and goodness. These stories can inspire new stories, or even become a story that an artist recreates. Either way, noticing the light and goodness, and extraordinary greatness of each human can and will be a wonderful means of finding heartwarming stories that can uphold LDS values.

Mormon Artist

There is and has been much discussion regarding what it means to be both religious and an artist during my time here at BYU. I have read, heard, and seen many opinions—some saying that it is our duty to disunite our beliefs and our work, and others saying it is our moral obligation to infuse each aspect together as often as possible. For the most part, I tend to think that we must approach our work with an open mind and an open heart; so while we may not be actively seeking God’s presence in all that we do and create, we allow him to send his spirit to guide and influence our actions.

I have many subconscious reservations and expectations in both the art I produce and that I consume. I realize that I make certain sacrifices in how I interact with art, such as imposing moral guidelines on the art I observe. While some may argue that this necessarily weakens my artistic sensibilities (as I cannot experience the entirety of the artistic community), I realize that this is indeed a strength rather than a weakness. My moral obligations allow me to weed through much unneeded artistic material, as well as allowing me to experience art that strictly buffs my spirituality and countenance. By choosing to allow my beliefs to influence my interactions with art, I am increasing my opportunity to grow and be strengthened with each experience.

To be a “Mormon artist” means to marry your beliefs with your artistic interactions. You choose to filter both what you produce and what you consume according to the principles of the gospel. Being a Mormon artist can be challenging, but it also brings with it many rewards as well. You are never forced to reconcile your religious self with your artistic self, as they can be both one and the same. Your beliefs change the way you interact with art, and in turn, art expounds on your understanding of those beliefs.

Stories of Light Surround Us

One of the most unique challenges we have as mormon artists is the fact that we are trying to stay true to someone's character and what they would do in certain situations while trying to keep the film that we are making a good representation of who we are. An example of this is when we are writing a script, or filming a movie we may have some characters in the film who are not the most upstanding people. They make mistakes, they are not perfect, and they do things that we may not feel comfortable portraying in film. The difficulty is being genuine in story, but doing so in a way that is not offensive to the spirit. This has been a struggle for Latter Day Saint artists in the past, and it will continue to be a struggle in the future. One of the things that we can do is pray for the spirit to guide us. I feel like that answer is a bit cliche, but it is completely true. The spirit can lead us to create things that will not drive him away. If the spirit is helping us to create, then not only will it be genuine and real, it will be uplifting and inspiring; and that is what I believe we are trying to do in our films.

Places we can find stories of light are in our everyday lives. We are constantly surrounded by people and their incredible stories. Even those who are closest to us such as family members and friends have stories that we can share that will uplift and inspire. The trick is learning to recognize them. This is the most difficult part. What may seem like a normal thing to us because we have lived with it, and are used to it, may not be normal at all. It really could be an incredible story that people would love to hear. I had an experience like this not long ago. I was trying to think of a story to do for my creative sample, and it wasn't until my Dad pointed it out that I realized my youngest brother had an amazing story to share. My brother was born deaf, and has been deaf his whole life. Five years ago he got a cochlear implant and began to learn how to play the piano. He can now read music, play several hymns, and is even learning to sing. That is an amazing story, and I didn't even realize what I had until it was pointed out to me.

LET THERE BE LIGHT (STORIES, THAT IS [LOL])

Doesn't a Mormon artist have the same challenges and opportunities as others? Yeah, it is easier to produce films, articles, paintings, etc. for the Church when you are a member of said church. And it makes a lot more sense for someone who has had the unique experience of growing up in a family of the LDS faith, or being converted to Mormonism. Those are unique experiences that could be seen as advantages from an artistic vantage point. But that's true for plenty of folks, right? The circumstances in which you are raised, especially your religion, make you well-equipped to tell stories that others simply can't. Or don't want to. Don't forget that option. Maybe the stories that require yr personal history are sucky. I am just joshing you, reader. U R GR8.

What I am laying down here is that as Mormon artists, we can create art steeped in LDS culture, or can incorporate our faith and spiritual perspective into our work. But guess what? That is not the only thing we have to make. We have been given the tools to do so through life experience, but that doesn't mean it is mandatory to make all that you have reek (blasphemous verb? you decide) of Mormonism. Spiritual, stirring work doesn't require theological specificity. You can paint deeply religious ideas in broad strokes, or at least with a brush that wasn't purchased from Deseret Book. There are opportunities that come from being Mormon, but they don't have to lead to work that is by-the-saints, for-the-saints/for-folks-we-can-convert-to-be-saints.

The challenges a Mormon artist are the same as every artist. "OH NOOOO HOW CAN I BE IN THE MOOOOOVIES IF I DON'T WANT TO DRIIIIIIINK?!?!?!" People of all sorts of religions have made all sorts of art. And guess what? All of them have principles as well, sweetheart. Maybe not ones as tangible as "I am not going to partake in the marijuana cigarettes", but everyone has ideals and ideologies that they intend to stand by. And guess what else? Sometimes they don't! Sometimes Mormon kids break the Word of Wisdom; sometimes individuals raised in a household of integrity auction away their self-worth; sometimes people dip beneath their standards so they can have work and feed themselves and others. People don't act the way they believe is right. People often make mistakes. The challenges that it seems like a lot of people think are "Mormon-specific" apply to a lot of people. They are the trials that come with being a human being. Surprise! The only thing that changes is the minutia of your life and the things you hold to be true. Whether or not you will stand firm is entirely up to you, but that doesn't make you a victim. You are just a person.

I think stories of light are any that teach you lessons that can make you a better version of yourself. Maybe not directly, and not always in a didactic, moral-focused manner. This means that stories of light can be dark (duh-huh-huh) or foreboding or angry or so on. The important distinction we need to make as an audience is why the artist is showing us things that may be unsavory in nature. If the intent is to instruct, to warn, or to bring us to a greater understanding, we seek these things! If they are rubbing our faces in the mud, or showing us with disdain how they feel about people, it might be better to avoid it. As consenting adults, it is essential that we learn the difference between these two methods of operation. Stories of light! Yeah!

Mormon Artist Challenges

Well for many artisans of the Mormon culture that I know, being a Mormon artist is not the easiest title to uphold. I believe that no matter what religion we are, or how good we try to be, there is always times when we challenge our own standards with what we think and create; we are all imperfect humans after all. The biggest challenge comes when you try to find that balance between what is appropriate and what is entertaining. With the world becoming increasingly more "risque" in the media it is hard to find that fine line, and the second it is passed, whatever is created falls into a category that many people do not approve of. Having the title of "Mormon artist" brings certain positive vibes and if that feeling is lost people will lose a large amount of respect towards that person.

Regardless of the risks, there are many advantages to being a Mormon artist. Someone in specific that I love for what he is and what he does is Brandon Flowers. He is Mormon, and I have been listening to his music for many years. Yes, his lyrics aren't always clean (more so back in the days then now), but many of his songs remind me of everyday life. He isn't fake and neither is what he sings about. His music is a source of light for me because he sings about things that are sad, happy, and everything in between. Even though sometimes his musical standards may be past the point of clean for many Mormons, I respect him for it. He has the guts to be himself and sing about what he wants to sing about, yet still have that Mormon vibe.

It sounds cheesy, but it's true!

Mormon Artist

What are our unique challenges and opportunities as Mormon artists? Where can we find compelling stories of light?

I think these are some really difficult questions. I believe that being an artist of any kind presents unique challenges and opportunities based upon one's situation. There is a difference I think, between being a Mormon artist and an artist who is Mormon, depending on how you want to look at it. To be an artist who happens to be Mormon may do different work than a "Mormon artist"... While a Mormon artist doesn't have to limit their artistic work to paintings of Christ and the pioneers, I think their art should allow for the Spirit, whatever it is they are creating. One really cool thing about following the strict morals of the church is that we as members of the Church as somewhat forced to learn to express ourselves abstractly. My best friend goes to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. So much of the art I've seen by her classmates is in many cases very explicitly sexual. In my opinion, it is distasteful. I believe that it requires more skill and insight to depict these natural and universal sexual emotions in ways that are more subtle and inoffensive.

On the other hand, it is my honest opinion, no matter how blasphemous, that I have felt the Spirit 100x stronger during certain R or PG-13 movies than I ever have in Sunday School. However, it is important to remember to look at these films as individuals and not just by their rating. An average Mormon may avoid such ratings, however I believe that as members of the church, we should look beyond what we are presented with and attempt to find the good in everything (within reason). There is no reason a beautiful, compelling, and thought provoking movie cannot be a story of light just because it wasn't made by Disney. The same goes for many other types of art. I think that it goes unsaid that painting for example, depicting the unclothed human form is not inherently bad because it is a blatant display of nudity. Instead, I believe art in any form can be a tremendous way for us to grow in our testimonies. Instead of approaching naked bodies as purely taboo because of sexual implications, we should marvel at the beauty, complexity, and Godliness of the human form. We can find stories of light anywhere we look. I think it can be especially good to step outside our comfort zones. While i think members of the Church tend to want to stay pure and sheltered, I think it is important to experience what life really is like. For example, I heard a story about a Bishop who loved the book Madame Bovary because it taught him so much about adultery and other such misfortunes in life. It made it so that when members of the ward would come to talk to him, he was better prepared and informed and better able to help them through their problems. Art works in ways that help us experience things we would never want to actually experience in real life. We can still take home the lessons learned through others' mistakes without actually having to make the mistakes ourselves. We become more empathetic, loving, and understanding of others the more we involve the arts in our lives. Anything can become a story of light if we are open to learning and progression.

Being a Mormon Artist

We, as Mormon artists, are not much different from other artists. As Mormons, we have different influences and may be inspired by different things, but our intent is generally the same. There are some challenges that come from being a Mormon, like being put in a stereotype. This, I find, is the hardest challenge that I have personally witnessed and/or been involved in. Sometimes, people expect things to be directly spiritual when they come from a Mormon artist. Perhaps this spawns from the outright religious affiliation that Mormons are so open about. Sometimes this stereotype makes it harder for people to accept you and give your art a chance. Also, some people may take this stereotype to a different extreme and expect a higher moral standard from your art then you do for yourself. There are, also, some unique opportunities that come from being a Mormon artist. Even though my art is not always directly spiritual, I am heavily influenced by gospel principles and standards. I like to find the beauty in the world and by sharing and appreciating it, I feel that I am expressing gratitude for the things that God has created. I believe that God has a sense of humor, and He likes to see us laugh, so even just when I’m trying to be funny I am influenced by my beliefs.

Stories of light can be found all around. Other than the obvious church answers like scriptures and church magazines like the Friend, New Era, Ensign, and Liahona, there are inspiring, beautiful stories that can be found in normal places, too. For example: people. I believe that everyone has a story to tell, and that everyone’s story can be compelling. Every person is passionate about something, and if you can get them talking about it, they don’t stop. This, to me, is proof that everyone is unique and interesting. God made us this way, and by asking other people about their passions we can find inspiring stories.

Being a Mormon Artist

There are 2 main challenges that we face as Mormon artists. The first is being accepted as legitimate by the outside world. The world views us as non-alcoholic beverages. We're fun and flavorful, but there's no real substance. If you want the real thing, you have to order the real thing. This reductive analysis of LDS culture is tough to fight, and it's a real challenge to enlighten the world if we don't put out something with real substance. What is this "real substance"? Humanity. Human nature. The duality of man. In our effort to portray the perfection of the gospel and the beauty of our unique experience, we often fall into the pit of only showing the good. We remove the "human" element--true human emotion and imperfection--so as not to taint the beauty of the message. This strips our work of legitimacy. It becomes only a facade, devoid of substance. We must show ourselves as we really are--imperfect, but real, with real human emotion and real human experiences--and not be scared to do so. 

The second great challenge is being accepted as legitimate within the LDS community. I recently read an essay explaining why it is improbable that LDS publishers will ever establish a tradition of real Mormon literary art. The author's main point was that the publishing and distribution of Mormon literature--and by that extension film as well--is a business, governed by economics and market research. The demographic that consumes LDS media is generally well-rounded and cultured but the most vocal subset of that demographic--which also happens to be the smallest percentage of the whole--tyrannically and vehemently controls the selection, production, and distribution of said media. They disregard anything that does not fit their limited definition of decorum, which is generally not in accordance with the gospel principles they purport to believe. So in order to create according to their standards, we must remove any "real" human emotion or experience from our work.

Yes, it is a paradox. It's as if we cannot please both those in the church and those without. What are we to do? We must choose priestcraft or apostasy? What are we to do? The answer, in my humble opinion, is to create true to ourselves. If we create art that is honest to who we are, what we experience, how we feel, where we fall short, and what we believe, we will create something with substance. The outside world will recognize truth, and the inner circles of LDS culture will recognize humanity. There will still be those who mock and those who scorn, but the majority of people--within and without LDS culture--will respect our work for its artistic elements and its truth. Be yourself; be real.

As to where we find stories of light, I think it more important to find light in the stories we find. Inspiration is subjective. There are many places to find uplifting and enlightening stories, we need not look far. It is also important to avoid stories of darkness. But these lie at far extremes on the continuum of stories, and represent a minuscule percentage of what is available. A more valuable ability to cultivate is that of finding light in the stories that lie along the vast majority of the continuum, between the extremes.

Mormartistry

Challenges and opportunities that confront Mormon artist are often just the same as those that non-members encounter; both believers and non-believers have to struggle to portray truth (as they see it), to portray their emotions, and connect with audiences. That being said, Mormon artists face certain challenges and have opportunities that non-Mormons do not. I think one of those challenges is an inherent responsibility to stand up for the Gospel and its related standards, especially against those who would otherwise tear them down. Having a religious belief set that is so fundamental to every aspect of our lives, we as Mormons—if we truly believe the things we’re taught—have a duty to pass on the Gospel message to everyone.

This does not mean that every Mormon artist has to paint scenes from the life of the Savior or make movies about His ministry, but Mormon artists should be able to convey truth in whatever medium they use; they should also always seek to communicate through the Spirit, no matter the subject they are portraying. If a piece of art does not allow the audience to feel the Spirit, I think the artist has failed to be true to a fundamental aspect of his or her identity. If we as members of the Church should avoid anything that drives away the Spirit, then creating art that is not conducive to the Spirit is in opposition to our purpose as Mormon artists.

Again, this isn’t to say that as filmmakers we ought never to explore serious, complex issues—on the contrary, the Spirit can help untangle many of these issues. But if we have testimonies of the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ, and we reject aspects of that Gospel while creating our art, or in the subject matter we portray, or in our manner or tone, then I think we cast aside the opportunity we have to make a serious difference in the world.

I think compelling stories of light are all around us; the day-to-day struggles that we face as members of the Church, as we try to live the Gospel, are stories of light, and many of them are compelling—and unexplored. The struggles of good people everywhere, in and out of the Church, are worthwhile stories of light. Weakness and error do not make people evil, and stories about humanity and persevering against tribulation are stories of light. Such narratives can be found in every part of the world. The scriptures are full of interesting stories (the Book of Judges, anyone?), but are sometimes difficult to relate to. Plenty of noble, upstanding stories unrelated to Mormonism portray important truths and espouse goodness and compassion. Having the Spirit with us can help us see these truths and learn from worthwhile art, no matter its origin.

Finding Light in the Darkness

I think being a Mormon Artist isn't something we give much thought to here in the Provo Bubble. We are surrounded by Mormons. But after college what comes next? We will have to move on and make a name for ourself in the world. A career like film is one that not too many Mormons enter in to. So I think that is where being a Mormon Artist will come in. We are going to be constantly surrounded by those who do not share the same beliefs we do or keep the same standards. I grew up in southern California where I was the only mormon girl, so I feel like I had a little taste of that growing up. But I know that the profession I am going into will probably be even harder than that.

As a Mormon Artist, we have the challenge of creating art that still upholds our standards. The world is becoming more and more secular and there are more and more questionable things becoming acceptable in modern culture. it is going to be hard to finda way to be successful and not give in to the temptations that we might find ourself being spaced with. I think that it is really possible to make great art without giving up your religious beliefs. We have the opportunity to do something great. I don't think our art needs to be straight up religious and impose our beliefs on others, but we can still create something great that can touch peoples lives. We have the opportunity to do this in a clean and pure way.

The truth is, you can find compelling stories of light all around you. There are so many wonderful  things on the this earth that can be spotted if you just open your eyes. There are so many beautiful thins to look at and to talk about, and if we take the time to just pause and breath, we can find them. When I think of places of light, I think of nature. God has created such a beautiful world for us to live in. I can see the mountains from my room, and every morning when I wake up, there greatness still amazes me. It makes me feel so small, but in a good way. It humbles me and makes me think about all the greatness this world has to offer. I think that if we use the gospel and follow the promptings of the spirit, we can find stories of light everywhere.

Unique Challenges of Mormon Artists

     As Mormon artists, there are unique challenges that are placed before our paths. One of the most unique challenge is holding on to the iron rod while holding on to our art. We need to be especially careful to express ourselves, get messages across, have people feel something all the while holding on to our values regardless of the values of the world. Some may say that that is a difficult task to accomplish. To some it may legitimately be so and for others it may not be. I believe that there is no gray line in this gospel. I either stand on the black or the white side. I choose to stand on either side. 

     Everything I do either brings me closer to Heavenly Father or farther away. By saying those words another unique challenge is invited to the party, the challenge of choosing what to set our hearts on. This means, as Mormon artists, will we choose to have our hearts set on putting Heavenly Father first or will we choose to have our hearts set on putting our art first? If we place our hearts on putting our art first we mistakably put ourselves in an area of danger subject to slip and take us farther away from where we as children of God are supposed to be. However, if we set our hearts on putting Heavenly Father first, then we are safer and our art can then come into the picture. 

     It is so profound to me that God is the ultimate creator. As artists, we can be like Him through our creations (if they can even be called ours). With that the unique challenge of using the creativity that Heavenly Father has given us in a way that would be pleasing to Heavenly Father is another challenge that we face as Mormon artists. However, if we place our trust and faith in God and ask Him for help, I’m positive He can and will help us through that challenge. We can find compelling stories of light all around us. 

     The very first place is the gospel. The stories of the scriptures have compelling light to all that read of them and even more to all that understand them. We find stories in church magazines, the lives of our prophets, apostles, and leaders of the church. We find them among each other. Anywhere we look we can find compelling stories of light, including the nature around us, an act of kindness that we witness, and in the lives of children. Compelling stories of light are all around us and I think that if we so choose to put Heavenly Father first, our eyes will be opened to recognize those stories whereas otherwise we may be blinded by them.

Finding Meaning

One of the challenges of being a Mormon anything, not just an artist, is that people, members and non-members alike, assume that you have a certain bias before they learn your true biases. This creates the opportunity to either affirm or restructure these biases, but people will often judge you and your work from a certain perspective. For example, I'm obviously Mormon, but I'm also a feminist. These are two words that people often don't associate (at BYU the term "feminist" is often regarded as a dirty word and people think they'll cause offense by assigning me this label) and I often have to find a way to reconcile the two words in people's minds (I think being an LDS feminist is just having common sense, but I won't delve too deep into that here). I think the most important thing one can do as a Mormon or just as a human being is to stay true to what you know to be true. People are more likely to take you and all of your biases seriously when you're genuinely doing your best to portray truth. The challenge is in doing this with reverence to your subject and respect to your entire audience.

Just as we're surrounded by degrading and detrimental stories, we're literally surrounded by stories of light. Literature, films, television, YouTube, you name it, uplifting stories are only a glance away when you're actively seeking significant meaning. Having eyes to see and ears to hear is the most crucial component in finding these stories, because if you're just going through the motions, even the most powerful piece of scripture or doctrine will be to no avail to the listener who isn't in tune to its medium and message.

My Rant

As Mormons we face the challenge of living up to a Mormon standard. If we do anything slightly off tempo then other Mormons are shocked, their faith is shaken, and we are judged, eventually leading to ostracization and excommunication. That might be a little extreme, but it might not be. This challenge is how Mormons view other Mormons, but we also face challenges from the world viewing us as Mormons. They always expect us to act like other Mormons, and as artists we are all very different people. “Well why do you watch R-rate movies? I know a Mormon and he says he’s not allowed to.” The world assumes that Mormons are a hive-minded people and that we must always do what every other Mormon does, lest we suffer eternal damnation and torment. I don’t like being typecast as a Mormon because then people are looking for what I do that is or is not “Mormon”, rather than focusing on what is more important. It’s just an annoying stereotype that overshadows other things.

As Mormons we can find compelling stories of light in all places. Even stories about terrible things like abuse, addiction, and violence can be compelling and inspiring. Compelling is about as ambiguous a term as it gets. Something can compel me while offending someone else. Compelling is a filler word for when people don’t know what word they really want to use. A quick search of synonyms for compelling yields:  convincing, gripping, absorbing, exciting. These are all very different. So does this mean a story with some sort of emotion stronger than blasé? Well that’s not very hard and it certainly doesn’t deal directly with being Mormon. It deals with understanding what people are interested in and how to deliver it. Anyone can deliver something better than mediocre if they have common sense, but that doesn’t mean they need the spirit. Stories of light? Well that’s slightly less ambiguous as compelling. Light implies knowledge, truth, and purity. To achieve this you need not be Mormon. I hate the idea that Mormons have that we are the only people who are chaste or that like uplifting content. The whole world likes this stuff, they just like it balanced with a little dirt to draw out the flavor, and Mormons are like that too; we just like to pretend like we are all holy because we are hypocrites. To find these stories one simply needs to look around and open his eyes and be honest about how he feels, not some hive-minded zergling. 

Bringing Light to a World of Darkness

As Mormon artists, we have a lot of decisions we have to make. We have to think about whether or not we will even call ourselves “Mormon artists,” whether or not we will blatantly promote our faith, and whether we will address Mormon audiences and Mormon issues. If we decide to do these things, we have to deal with being rejected by some and scorned by others. If we decide against all of these things, we have to find a way to hold to our values and standards in a world that thinks little of our beliefs. These decisions will definitely impact the kind of art we produce, and the kind of audience we reach.

In my opinion, being a Mormon isn’t something you can just ignore – it’s a part of who you are and you’re going to have to live up to your standards, especially if you are an artist whose work is being viewed and criticized by the public. We have a unique and important obligation to stand as witnesses of Christ, no matter where we are or what we’re doing. Just as a Mormon businessman can make a resolution to be honest in all his dealings, a Mormon artist can make a resolution to only produce work that is wholesome and edifying. There is enough filth and confusion in this world – we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to bring clarity and light to people through our art.

One of my favorite places to look for compelling stories of light created by Mormon artists is on the Mormon Artists Blog. The blog is written by Mormons, for Mormons, and about Mormons, but I think you’ll be impressed by what you find. It turns out that Mormonism isn’t only about having three hours of church and paying tithing; it’s about an entire culture that is full of human emotion and interesting traditions that have just as much value as any other culture.

http://mormonartist.net/blog/