Back by popular demand: ABHMS to present ‘Space for Grace’ at Mission Summit
VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 5/5/17)—As part of the 2017 Biennial Mission Summit in Portland, Ore., back by popular demand is the artistic portion of American Baptist Home Mission Societies’ (ABHMS) acclaimed “Space for Grace” event.
Showcasing original works by Christian-influenced artists and performers, Space for Grace will be presented Friday through Sunday in Innovators Hall.
“The excitement and joy with which these artists were received in 2015 has encouraged us to offer this aspect of Space for Grace once again,” says the Rev. Dr. Marilyn P. Turner-Triplett, ABHMS director, Rizpah’s Children, who is overseeing Space for Grace planning for Portland. “Please stop by to experience what promises to be a daring presentation of creative and forward-thinkers who desire to impact their communities and the world with a fresh presentation of God’s story.”
From pen-and-ink and acrylic works to watercolor and live painting onsite, a variety of visual arts will be on display to enjoy. Select items will be available for purchase. An artist-led evening opportunity will allow attendees to create their own works on canvas.
Live performances will range from gospel-inspired violin, ethereal vocal harmony and liturgical dance to hip-hop, spoken-word and stand-up comedy. Directors of two compelling, social justice-related film shorts will be on hand to take questions after screening their works.
In addition, Space for Grace will provide a place for conference goers to meet new and old friends, engage in dialogue, partake in snacks and relax. Night owls will revel in the opportunity to see high-quality performances until midnight on Friday and Saturday.
ABHMS presents Space for Grace at Mission Summit
Performances and Events| Friday, June 30 | |
| 1 p.m. | “Celebration of Grace Reception,” featuring Melanie R. Hill Hill has performed her Gospel-inspired violin selections on Bobby Jones’ Gospel Hour on BET, at the NAACP’s 97th Annual Convention and at the world-famous Apollo Theater in New York City. |
| 2 p.m | “Hark” While depicting the moral dilemma to save one’s life or risk another’s, this short film draws attention to the harsh reality of human trafficking. Q&A with filmmaker/producer Jonathon Fung immediately follows. |
| 3-5 p.m. | “Meet the Artists,” featuring artists from the “Space for Grace Art Gallery” Artwork may be available for purchase. |
| 9 p.m. - midnight | Brett Hollis Hollis has been delivering both hilarious, clean comedy and motivational, inspirational stories for more than 23 years. |
| Lauren Ng Front person for the band “Yeah, Sure, Whatever,” Ng performs her deep, quirky lyrics with ethereal vocal harmonies in this solo effort. |
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| Andy O. O.’s unique form of hip-hop will leave you wanting more. |
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| 10 p.m. | Paint N’ Pop with Artist Ronnie Ro For $25 (cash only) at the door, individuals of all artistic levels can paint a canvas to take home. All materials are provided. |
| Saturday, July 1 | |
| 2 p.m. | The Art of Tough Talks led by Michelle Lang A multimedia project that utilizes the performing arts to foster conversation on such difficult topics as justice, politics, religion and identity. Watch the performance, and then join the conversation. |
| 2-5 p.m. | “Meet the Artists,” featuring artists from the “Space for Grace Art Gallery” Artwork may be available for purchase. |
| 9 p.m. - midnight | Michelle Lang & Stillwater This Seattle, Wash., group fuses a strong gospel message with music, song, spoken word, dance and dramatic expression. |
| J. Poetic This hip-hop-influenced spoken-word artist blends metaphor, theology and philosophy into high-energy lyricism that makes audiences think. |
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| Melanie R. Hill Hill has performed her Gospel-inspired violin selections on Bobby Jones’ Gospel Hour on BET, at the NAACP’s 97th Annual Convention and at the world-famous Apollo Theater in New York City. |
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| Sunday, July 2 | |
| 2 p.m. | “Since I’ve Been Down: Self-Initiated Higher Learning while Incarcerated” This short film tells the story of incarcerated individuals who initiated traditional and nontraditional higher education. Discussion with filmmaker Lydia Barlow immediately follows. |
| 2-5 p.m. | “Meet the Artists,” featuring artists from the “Space for Grace Art Gallery” Artwork may be available for purchase. |
Space for Grace Art Gallery
10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight Friday
9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. to midnight Saturday
11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday
- Sandy J. Bass
Bass’s goal is to make God’s presence known through her art and writing. She has created inspirational murals for hospitals and preschools. - Simply Kay’s
Kay Moynihan features eclectic acrylic works, portraits, paints and tattoo art. Learn about her “Ladies Paint Night” parties. - Jonah Ramsey-Lucas
This young artist features pencil, pen and ink, acrylic and water color painting, and wood working. - Ronnie Ro
Watch Ro paint live in a unique and easily distinguishable style that communicates Christ’s love. - Matt Toupin
Toupin is creator of “God’s Story, Your Story,” an art-based tool for sharing the gospel, which has been displayed at American Baptist Churches of Nebraska’s annual meeting; Bethel Neighborhood Center, Kansas City; and a pastors’ conference in Mexico. - Sun Bros. Studios
Wesley and Brad Sun are the Sun Bros. Wesley has been a hospital and prison chaplain. Brad studied art and worked at a gallery before joining his brother to create Sun Bros.
ABHMS debuted Space for Grace in Los Angeles in November 2015.
To register for Mission Summit, visit www.abc-usa.org > Mission Summit.
American Baptist Home Mission Societies partners with American Baptists to promote Christian faith, cultivate Christ-centered leaders and disciples, and bring healing and transformation to communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.
American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with over 5,200 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.
