Ryan Thompson

Thompson’s world view is based on the understanding that the world is broken, complicated by humanity’s sin. He takes seriously his responsibility as a Christian to promote renewal in work and life, bear witness to God’s grace, and encourage the exploration of belief, knowledge, and the physical world.

“I was drawn to the field of art and design because I believe so strongly in its transformative abilities—to change perceptions, reveal greater truths, unite minds, and inspire joy,” said Thompson. “I strive, in my personal practice, to create spaces for grace, restoration, and redemption. I encourage students to view their discipline in a similar way and to engage in the active transformation of our world.”

Scholarship and art isn’t all about transformation, though, says Thompson. It is also about exploration and engagement.

“Art is interactive and provides many opportunities for its participants to engage in conversation, discussion, and learning,” he said. “Through these interactions, we learn from each other how better to care for our world and one another.”

Thompson has demonstrated his world view in his own intentionally varied educational background. Diversity and understanding diversity are a large part of successful engagement with art and the world.

“As an artist and as a Christian, I am called to make diversity central to my educational objectives. I strongly believe that the more diversified we are as a body of believers, the more we can learn from each person’s unique strengths, work together through our weaknesses, and worship God in unity for his love and grace.”