Joseph Avakian is a multifaceted artist, educator, and communicator whose background spans visual communication, branding, intercultural engagement, and mentorship. He describes himself as a creative thinker and life-long learner, blending his Armenian, Lebanese, Cypriot, and German heritage into a global perspective on art and culture. Through his work with organizations like YWAM and the Zebr Institute, Joseph has mentored countless individuals, emphasizing creativity as a divine gift and problem-solving tool. His philosophy centers on aligning art with truth, goodness, and beauty to reflect God’s character and transform lives.
This week, Joseph led a lecture series on Art & Beauty, exploring how creativity intersects with identity, culture, and faith. Over five days, his teachings revealed art’s potential to inspire, heal, and glorify God. Drawing from his own journey as an artist and educator, he challenged us to rethink the purpose of art, emphasizing its redemptive power in a fragmented world.
The lectures began by exploring art’s purpose within the broader context of societal spheres like governance, science, and economics. Joseph reminded us that each sphere exists not for itself but to serve humanity. Art, when aligned with its divine mandate, has the power to inspire hope and restore beauty. He critiqued modern trends of self-centered creativity, where individualism and profit often overshadow meaning and service. Instead, he urged us to see art as a bridge between individuals, communities, and God—a reflection of divine truth meant to uplift and heal. This reframing of art as a tool for collective flourishing was inspiring, which challenged us to think beyond personal expression.
Day two expanded on these ideas, delving into the universal language of drama and storytelling. Joseph described drama as the tension between opposing forces—good and evil, hope and despair—that mirrors the human experience. He argued that art, like drama, must ultimately move beyond brokenness to point toward restoration. Through examples like interactive art installations addressing racism, Joseph illustrated how creativity can challenge deeply held prejudices and inspire action. The metaphor of culture as a garden particularly stood out, emphasizing the need for intentional cultivation and stewardship in multicultural contexts. This perspective compelled me to view cultural diversity not as a source of conflict but as an opportunity for growth and collaboration.
On the third day, Joseph turned our attention to biblical artistry, highlighting the intricate design of the temple as an expression of God’s creativity. Details like the blue pomegranates and almond-shaped lampstands were not arbitrary; they revealed the intentionality behind every act of creation. He connected this to the work of artists like Rembrandt, whose self-portrayal in crucifixion scenes exemplified vulnerability and authenticity. These reflections underscored the idea that true art invites us into deeper engagement with life’s complexities, revealing both human frailty and divine grace. Joseph’s critique of modern art movements, which often prioritize concept over craftsmanship, struck a chord. He called for a return to art that uplifts and inspires, challenging us to reclaim beauty as a life-giving force.
The fourth day explored the intersection of fashion, media, and identity. Joseph shared humorous anecdotes about cultural norms, such as the German preference for black clothing, to illustrate how personal expression shapes perception and authority. He linked this to the broader role of the arts and media, which, when used with excellence, can provoke thought and inspire transformation. A particularly fun example was a live art installation (stretch exercise) where we physically broke free from symbolic constraints, embodying a message of liberation. This multisensory experience demonstrated art’s unique ability to engage the heart and mind simultaneously. Joseph’s emphasis on meeting people where they are—whether through creative expression or personal interaction—was a powerful reminder of the relational nature of art.
The final day brought everything together, focusing on art’s role in shaping identity and reflecting the image of God. Joseph argued that creativity is central to being human, a reflection of our divine purpose. He challenged us to view art as more than self-expression, seeing it instead as a means of discipleship and worship. His humorous anecdotes about Jesus’ humanity—such as imagining Him dealing with Middle Eastern heat or childhood misadventures—made the divine relatable, reminding us that being made in God’s image includes both creativity and vulnerability. This perspective was both humbling and empowering, reinforcing the idea that our creative efforts, no matter how small, can glorify God and inspire others.
One of the most striking moments of the week was Joseph’s reflection on the transcendentals—truth, goodness, and beauty. He described how these principles guide art, transforming it into a tool for restoration and hope. Art, when rooted in these values, reflects God’s character and brings life to those who encounter it. Joseph’s critique of consumerism and shallow aesthetics in modern celebrations further emphasized the need for intentionality and depth in our creative practices. His call to reclaim art’s original purpose—offering glimpses of divine beauty and truth— encouraged me to approach my own daily life with greater intentionality and purpose.
The lectures had a meaningful effect on me, particularly Joseph’s metaphor of culture as a garden. This idea of cultivating beauty in a broken world resonated deeply, reminding me of the care and intentionality required to steward creativity well. His emphasis on excellence as a silent advocate motivated me to pursue quality and authenticity in all I do, not for recognition but as an act of worship. The concept of art as both a responsibility and a privilege reframed my understanding of creativity, inspiring me to see it as a way to serve others and reflect God’s generosity.
In the end, Joseph’s teachings were more than an exploration of art and beauty—they were an invitation to live creatively, intentionally, and redemptively. Creativity, as he described it, is not confined to the canvas or stage but extends to every aspect of life. Whether through designing a logo, sharing a meal, or engaging in conversation, we have the opportunity to reflect God’s truth and love in tangible ways. This week challenged me to embrace that calling, to create with intention and humility, and to view my work as part of a larger narrative of hope and transformation.
One of the most striking moments of the week was Joseph’s reflection on the transcendentals—truth, goodness, and beauty. He described how these principles guide art, transforming it into a tool for restoration and hope. Art, when rooted in these values, reflects God’s character and brings life to those who encounter it. Joseph’s critique of consumerism and shallow aesthetics in modern celebrations further emphasized the need for intentionality and depth in our creative practices. His call to reclaim art’s original purpose—offering glimpses of divine beauty and truth— encouraged me to approach my own daily life with greater intentionality and purpose.
The lectures had a meaningful effect on me, particularly Joseph’s metaphor of culture as a garden. This idea of cultivating beauty in a broken world resonated deeply, reminding me of the care and intentionality required to steward creativity well. His emphasis on excellence as a silent advocate motivated me to pursue quality and authenticity in all I do, not for recognition but as an act of worship. The concept of art as both a responsibility and a privilege reframed my understanding of creativity, inspiring me to see it as a way to serve others and reflect God’s generosity. 
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