What is the Definition of an Iconoclast:
A person who attacks settled beliefs or institutions.
A person who destroys religious images or opposes their veneration.
How do I fit into the definition of being an Iconoclast whilst still identifying as Christian?
I feel like being a black woman, a Christian, and an artist, who draws Queer art, dark themes, and NSFW content, makes me an Iconoclast of some sort. It is a hard thing to define to be fairly honest as I personally struggle to gain the confidence I need to identify the inner layers within myself.
I am queer and a follower of Christ. I do not fit into Church or Safe For Work art communities. I have a fondness for sexually explicit art and sensuality that includes queer love and it separates me from others who are more churchy and strictly tied to their religion. This sometimes is met with a sense of shame and fear of judgment because of that said of separation. Plus, It’s hard to find fellowship with like minded individuals because we are few and far between.
My hope for creating this blog series is to express myself and find or inspire that form of said fellowship. I want to help others reach a knowing that you can be queer and love Christ. You can be an NSFW artist and have spiritual beliefs in God. Or most importantly you can be of other religious beliefs and know/befriend a person like me.
And it is through my own self-belief and giving myself the permission to express and explore all that’s within me, artistically, sexually wise and spirituality wise. I exist on this earth to be more than just a stereotypical Christian or fall into the line of rules and pleasing others for the sake of the church; which always often leads to hating people who are different.
With my art and personal values, I want to challenge others to put down their hatred or standard belief systems and connect to others in order to love and understand each other. In that way, I believe that makes me an Iconoclast.
Comments