Rev. Cynthia O’Connell
Rev. “Cyn”
Most of my friends and family call me “Cyn,” short for “Cynthia.” That I would be Rev. Cyn (sounds like sin) when I decided to answer the call to ministry was just too perfect not to use. So when I was ordained in The United Church of Canada I officially became the Reverend Cyn. I currently serve as the Minister of Glebe Road United Church in Toronto, which I call home. My artwork is an expression of my spirituality, theology and faith. Creating art is my spiritual practice and is another way to engage with sacred text in my weekly preaching duties. My goal is to inspire others to engage in the creative arts, regardless of skill, as a spiritual practice. I use bright and bold colours often drawing on the natural elements. If you wish to use any of my art in your work, teaching or ministry please contact me for an official image file, godflinger@gmail.com.
FAQs
How do you decide what to draw?
I start with the Revised Common Lectionary, a standardize three year cycle of weekly bible readings used by majority of mainline protestant churches in Canada and the US. I choose the reading that I will be preaching on that week as the subject of my drawing. I read the passage, highlight a few words or images that capture my attention, do a quick rough sketch then quickly move to fill in the piece with colour and details.
How long does it take to create a drawing?
It depends on how much detail is in the picture, but about a couple of hours. I purposely choose to not spend too much time on “perfecting” the drawing. The goal is to let the Spirit inspire me and focus on the process not the result. Checkout the homepage for a time lapsed video of how a drawing comes to be.
Can I purchase a print of your art?
I do not have a dedicated section for selling my art, however, I occasionally pop up in local art sales. If there is a specific print you wish to purchase contact me directly godflinger@gmail.com and I may be able to accommodate your request.
What medium do you use?
I use heavily pigmented pencil crayons (Prismacolour) that allow for blending without the mess of charcoals or paint. All of my drawings are kept in a single journal of blank paper, which are then scanned, then edited in a photo program.