Want to pray, but can’t find the words?
That’s okay. The truth is, sometimes there are no words.
But that doesn’t mean we don’t pray. It just means our prayers sometimes look a little different.
Prayer + Art + Worship
Art can be a way to connect with God and work through something weighing on your heart. In a Painted Prayers workshop, you use art and creativity to “paint” a prayer—whether you’re actually painting, using mixed media, crafting a card, or creating another art piece.
There is something powerful that is unleashed when a group of broken souls come together in communion to explore through creativity. No matter what pain each person is carrying with them, God finds a way to speak into it during our time together.
These workshops are not like anything you’ve experienced before. This is not paint-by-number instruction. We are not all working on creating the same image; in fact, we aren’t working on a specific image at all! Each of us explores abstract art techniques and look for the messages breaking through. It’s not about the final painting at all — it’s about the process! Layer after layer, we watch our emotions and our soul pour out onto the canvas and learn from every step of it. And when it’s all done, the final painting will contain all of those pieces, hidden within the final version.
Painted Prayers website
An Inside Look at a Painted Prayers Workshop
60- to 75-minute live workshop
You’ll have plenty of time and space to complete a small art project. Time to think and reflect. Time to pray. Time to share, if you’d like to (though we respect your privacy, too).
Guidance and support from a certified instructor
You aren’t going through this process alone. You will have the support and guidance of an instructor trained to lead others through transformative art experiences.
Intentionally small group size (3-8 participants)
Workshop size is limited so you can have the personal interaction and instruction you need without fighting for attention or getting lost in the crowd.
A new spiritual practice to grow closer to God
You can begin to use art and creativity to connect with God and grow closer to Him.
And you’ll walk away with a Spirit-inspired art piece that will remind you of any truth He reveals to you during this time.
Is This For You?
Though anyone can benefit from a Painted Prayers workshop, it tends to work best for those who are longing to meet with God and are open to hearing from Him.
- Something is troubling your soul, and you need time and space to explore what’s going on.
- You are burdened for a friend, but you can’t find the words to intercede on their behalf.
- You find yourself more of a creative person than a word person, and aren’t sure what that means when it comes to your relationship with God.
Painted Prayers workshops also work well in private settings, like women’s retreats, homeschool workshops, art camps for kids, retreats/planning days for business owners, and more!
Hi, I’m Kari Bartkus.
There have been many times when I have sat down to pray for a friend only to discover that I just didn’t have any words. In those moments, I turned to my crafting table and spent time creating. Art became a way for me to pray for my friends without needing to find the words.
It has been such a powerful experience for me that I want to help lead others through this process, too. I completed the Painted Prayers Instructor Training and became a certified instructor. I’d love for you to join a workshop so you can experience what “painting a prayer” is like.
Let Me Answer Your Questions
What if I’m not artistic?
You don’t have to be! This is about meeting with God through art. It’s more about the process than the actual painting/art piece at the end.
What do I need for a virtual workshop?
- Reliable internet connection
- Device (computer or phone) with a camera and Zoom
- Ear buds, if possible
- Basic art supplies (whatever you can find around your house is fine)
- A heart willing and open to meeting with God
What kind of art methods do you use in your workshops?
In my Painted Prayers workshops, we focus on painting, mixed media, or cardmaking, unless there is a special theme or topic. If you’re interested in a specific kind of art, keep your eye open for that workshop or email me to be notified when that workshop is available.
Do you offer one-on-one workshops?
Yes. Individual workshops are great for those who are more private in nature, or even for children who might get too distracted by others. If you would prefer a one-on-one workshop for you or a child, just request one using the “Request a private workshop” button below.
Do you offer in-person workshops?
Yes! If you are local and would like an in-person workshop, request one using the “Request a private workshop” button below. These work great for small groups, children’s art camps, team development, retreats, and more. With in-person workshops, supplies would be provided. Price determined by number of participants.
You don’t have to use words to pray.
You can meet with God through creative art. Share with Him what is weighing on your heart, and wait to see what is laying on His…
