Art of Faith

WORKS

AN ACT OF FAITH

The Gospel according to Mark 16: 17-18 says “And these signs will follow those who believe: In my name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover” If you don’t believe in serpent handling, pray for those who do.

COAL MINERS

Centuries of coal mining in Appalachia has left a wake of destruction behind. Extensive environmental damage including polluted waterways, compromised ground water, loss of forestry and tremendous health and safety risks, all needing to be addressed. Residents in this region have dealt with increased illness and shortened life expectancy. Black Lung Disease is again on the rise, forcing miners to a constant fight to protect their healthcare benefits.

FISHING VILLAGES IN THE DR

The small fishing village of Guayacanes with its white sand beaches is home to a few restaurants that rely on the local fisherman to furnish them whe catch of the day. These same fishermen also hawk their catch to the locals on the beach.

VISUAL PROTEST

Graffiti is a very misunderstood art form. Often it represents the pulse and sentiment of societal undercurrents, channeling the voice of the unheard, a rebellion against established norms, offering a platform to marginalized voices, fostering social dialogues and influencing political change.

K M CHESLOCK

Visual Storyteller

Kim Marris Cheslock is a photographer and visual storyteller. Her work focuses on social justice, religion and labor rights, as well as, the intersection of all three, and is currently working on several long term projects in Appalachia.

Kim is a graduate of Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies, and all of Kim’s works have strings of faith running through them…. Always questioning “Where does faith come from?”

With foundational beliefs, Kim’s intent is to convey that faith comes from the intense feeling of hope. Hope brings answers to the unknown, while circumventing the burdens that we all hold through the quiet cries of desperation and fear. Hope prevails to bring a new choice of salvation. Hope is the connection that we all share. Hope IS the universal faith.