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The premise of this book is simple: humans are created by God in God’s image; therefore, all creativity comes from Him. If creative work “provokes depression or suicide, it does not fall within a Christian’s definition of true creativity. It is rather a trick, a gimmick, or the indulgence of a thief.” Using theological examples to illustrate her thesis, the author presents ten rules to inspire creatives to join the “shivoo” (party) of like-minded people. Rules such as first acknowledging one’s dependence on the Creator, showing one’s gratitude to God, nurturing other creatives, and enjoying your own creativity are illustrated through Bible verses and stories that reveal the Creator’s own artistic mindset. Though not specifically a how-to book, the author offers readers a variety of steps to help tap into and develop their creativity in a godly manner.
This exploration of the creative life and how it is an extension of the Creator is a fascinating read. Bartnick’s tone is encouraging and joyful. She taps into the fact that the creative life is one that has been given by God and that by acknowledging and accepting the gift, one can indeed enhance creativity. Definitively Christian in its ideology, it is nevertheless a work from which anyone can glean valuable information concerning the creative life. It is well-grounded in Christian theology. Bartnick is well-versed in the Bible, and readers will find a wealth of information concerning both the artistic process and scripture within the pages of her book. Christians will especially enjoy reading this interesting take on creativity, but all readers will find interesting aspects of the creative endeavor here. Whether one is a creative person or wishes to understand how creativity is tied to a higher power, there is much to learn from this work.