Featured Artist: Timothy M. Joe

            "Flowers" by Timothy M. Joe, copyright

                                     "The Lord and Peter" by Timothy M. Joe, copyright

                         "Valley of Dry Bones" by Timothy M. Joe, copyright

Featured Artist: Timothy M. Joe

I learned at an early age that I was blessed with artistic ability. I am a self taught artist in pencil, painting
in oil and acrylics, airbrushing, and charcoal. I prayed that Lord will help me become a better artist.
Over the years, He has given me understanding on how to improve and learn different techniques from other artists. One day while reading an airbrush magazine, I noticed most if not all of the art in the books were based on drugs, nudity, and demonic images (skulls, demons, devils, etc.). I thought, “Why is everything that people think is great art have such an evil tone to it?” When I was young I drew pictures of skulls and
knives, to fit in with some of my classmates because I thought it was the right thing to do. Now that I am older, I want young and old people to know that art can be used as a blessing to someone. Art can be used for good or evil. It is for this reason that Lord told me to use my talent to tell the world about Him. I want my artwork to encourage, uplift, and reach out to the lost. I make cards for the sick and shut-in of my church by writing bible verses in calligraphy to remind them of God's promise that He will take care of them no matter what. I also want my art to confront people with God’s word and to remind us of His return. The bible says that God’s Word is like a two-edged sword meaning it cuts both ways. I want my art to do just that.

Favorite Bible Verses
II Timothy 4:5
"But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist fulfill your ministry."

This verse really encourages me to do the work the Lord has set before me. He put me on this earth to do His will and share is gospel with everyone. Jesus warned His follower that we will be afflicted by the enemy, but to remain steadfast in His word. The greatest thing is the world is to fulfill the purpose of your existence.

Micah 6:8
"He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and walk humbly with your God."

God has given us all the road map to live this life in the way that would be pleasing to Him. It is so simple, but we need His help to do it. I want my life to line up with this verse as much as possible.

Arts Council Seeks Panoply Entertainers & Visual Artists

Arts Council Seeks Panoply Entertainers & Visual Artists

Applications Available Now

Huntsville, AL - The Arts Council has begun the process of programming the Panoply Arts Festival stages and visual arts areas, seeking local talent and exhibiting fine artists to apply now. The festival takes place in Big Spring Park and will be held April 26-28, 2013. 

Featuring four main stages and two smaller performance venues, the festival boasts over 60 performing slots to be filled by local talent. The performer application has moved to an online process this year, and is available on The Arts Council website (www.artshuntsville.org). Performers must describe their act and include staging information where applicable. The performer guidelines are also available on the website, and should be read thoroughly before applying. The deadline for applications is Thursday, January 31, 2013. 

"Panoply is a celebration of the arts, whether it's a painting or a choreographed dance," says Vinny Paragone, Festival Co-Chair. "We have so many venues within the festival to showcase the best in local and regional performing arts and can't wait to see the talent that applies to be a part of Huntsville's largest community event." 

While the stages are a popular part of the festival, Panoply is also known regionally for its Art Marketplace and is now seeking applicants for the 2013 show. Usually accepting up to 65 fine artists, the Marketplace is a juried show featuring art in many mediums. To apply, artists may visit The Arts Council's website. Applicants are required to upload images of their work, along with a $40 jury fee. The deadline for application for the Art Marketplace is Thursday, January 31, 2013. 

"One of my favorite parts of Panoply is the Art Marketplace. The opportunity to stroll over the Monroe Street bridge and shop the fantastic art sets the festival apart from other events," says Yvonda Best, Festival Co-Chair. "It has such a nice flow, giving adults something to enjoy at Panoply apart from the kid's activities and stages." 

The Arts Council has presented the Panoply Arts Festival annually since 1982; 75,000 people attended the event last year. Plans for this year's event are well underway and include fresh children's arts and crafts and other new elements. For more information on the performer or artist applications for Panoply, contact The Arts Council at 256-519-ARTS(2787). 

The Arts Council is a non-profit organization founded in 1962 to produce, promote, coordinate and advance the arts to enrich the quality of life, economic development and education of the greater Huntsville/Madison County community. With over 170 member arts organizations, individual artists, arts patrons, and other arts-minded non-profits, companies, and technical and professional organizations, The Arts Council focuses on six core community programs while serving as an umbrella for Assembly members, providing them with resources and tools to ensure their success.