The Clever Canvas was born in 2020. It was born from a desire to share my gifts and art with the world, and to teach others that they could, indeed, paint too! A year later, I was called back into a relationship with God, and began seeking after my purpose. The Clever Canvas has been a hobby for some time, with a few classes here and there being taught to some awesome folks.
After growing closer to God and returning to church, I was asked to paint during the worship services. I delayed for a while, deciding to wait to receive confirmation on what I should do. This is how you know it was God. I began to become increasingly bothered about my purpose and what God intended me to do. It was on my mind 24/7.
Finally, I decided to take the leap and dive into unknown territory: Painting in church before a live audience.
To be clear, I had never really wanted to be in front of people. I wanted people to see my art, but not me. At this point in my life, I was used to taking bold jumps and risks, though at first I was unsure of how it would be. I was still unsure about being in front of people, but I finally decided to jump in. This has been such a service to God, to myself, to my brothers and sisters — and it has been healing for me in so many ways. God always knows what we need before we do.
As an artist, it has strengthened my ability to paint and removed all stumbling blocks in that area. When you’re connected to the source of all creativity, the source that created everything, guess what? There’s no more “artist’s block”. You’re plugged in to the source of inspiration and much more.
As a Christian, it has developed and strengthened my faith, knowing that God will always release what’s on His heart for that day — whether that be something for someone specifically or whether it connects to the sermon at hand. It always fills a need.
Without further adieu, the vision for The Clever Canvas is as an art ministry to express the Gospel message through art, working with the Holy Spirit in obedience and love to express Jesus Christ’s mission and advance God’s Kingdom in the earth.
I’ve also created a section called “Anointed Hands” for this purpose. I hope to have more sections as it grows, but here’s to starting something new.
If you feel led to give, support me, or generally reach out, please feel free to email me here or go to my About section to see my other platforms. Thanks for supporting myself and The Clever Canvas!
God bless and keep you!
Kayla Knowles