More than a decade after first appearing on Hope Channel, Masterstroke is entering a new chapter—taking conversations about art, faith and life’s big questions into galleries, cultural centres and communities.
An Adventist Media ministry presented by pastor and historian Dr Neale Schofield, Masterstroke uses the lives and works of well-known artists as a starting point for exploring meaning, suffering, hope and faith.
The original Masterstroke series featured 12 half-hour programs and 28 shorter segments, which were broadcast internationally through Hope Channel.
Since then, Dr Schofield has further developed his interest in the relationship between art and faith, completing a master’s degree in Christianity and the Arts at King’s College London in collaboration with The National Gallery, followed by a PhD in history at the University of St Andrews in Scotland.
Now Masterstroke is expanding its reach through a new website, fresh digital content, Bible studies and live community events. Its online offerings include films, a gallery highlighting the stories and meaning behind significant artworks, and “Today’s Masterstroke”, a daily reflection using art as a starting point for exploring faith and life.
Dr Schofield is particularly passionate about using Masterstroke to help local churches connect with people in their communities who may not be reached through more traditional approaches to evangelism.
“If you look at a work of art, then you’re interpreting what it means to you, and there are so many different layers,” he said. “It’s not confrontational. It’s a totally different approach.”
Earlier this year, Dr Schofield presented “Vincent: A Spiritual Journey”, exploring the life and faith of Vincent van Gogh, at the Naracoorte Art Gallery in South Australia.
Although hosting a faith-based program was somewhat outside the gallery’s usual scope, gallery leaders were intrigued by the subject and agreed to host the series. More than 30 people from the community attended, with gallery leaders delighted by the response and the event attracting coverage in a regional newspaper.
Organised by Pastor Fine Paiaaua and Sharyn Hole from Naracoorte Adventist Church, the program has also created opportunities for ongoing connections. The church is following up the event with “Bible Q+A”, a 25-part Masterstroke Bible study series.
Dr Schofield said the aim is not simply to hold events, but to help local churches build relationships with people in their communities.
“Because it’s done through the artist’s life story, people can identify with them,” he said. “They don’t even have to be that interested in art.”
According to Dr Schofield, art can connect with people in ways that preaching sometimes cannot.
“Like music, art has a way of reaching people and reaching the heart,” he said.
Masterstroke is continuing its community focus with a series in Perth this month at the Clarkson Community Centre Auditorium, featuring “Mysteries of the Louvre”, “Vincent: A Spiritual Journey” and “Spirit of the Reformation”.
For more information on Masterstroke and upcoming community events, visit masterstroke.tv.
Tracey Bridcutt is the communication director for the South Pacific Division.
