I interviewed (some months back) an amazingly talented artist by the name of Jason Manly (AD and co-founder of Massive Black Studios as well as www.conceptart.org ). He told me a little bit about their studios philosophy in that their artists and creatives share their techniques, tools and best practices with a worldwide community of artists through conceptart.org. He summed up that "We make the art community stronger and equip talent to become more creative and inspired through the sharing of knowledge." Now some might think that in a competitive industry like art and game creation one would hold onto proprietary techniques but his philosophy is that once a technique is shared publicly it forces him and Massive Black's talent to mine for new technique, innovations and creativity!
If the world can find that kind of conviction and honor to share so liberally their knowledge and passions, Christians should definitely be following suit (if not leading the charge, especially in our interactive entertainment industry)! I've heard testimony from a number of Christian developers and talents that try and reach out to other Christian professionals for help or participation or advice, only to be met with staunch reluctance, selfish insecurities and half-baked mentoring concepts and hand holding. Kinda hard to build Spirit filled professional relationships and affect change in an industry if we keep slam'n the door on people.
Now I know not all Christian professionals are like this but in the gaming industry it seems to be fairly prevalent. Why is this?...
I've had a few examples of Christian individuals and studios that have reached out for help from other Christian talents but the people asking for the help or advice have had attitudes that kinda suck in that they feel somehow exonerated from compensating individuals montarily just because they have a noble project or pursuit. All I'm saying is that if you have it to give, then compensate those that are coming along side you. Otherwise approach people you're requesting help from with an attitude of humility and sensitivity to their time and resources.
So back to discussing holding onto ideas and knowledge. First you have to ask yourself, why are you holding onto it?... or, what are you doing with it? I had an idea for over 10 years for a game concept, character and story. 10 years later this concept is even more innovative, timely and immersive on many levels! However, I guarded this idea for so long that it started to become selfish and unhealthy as my passion for it grew into frustration. I felt if I gave any part of it away to someone else for a production, inspiration or concept that it would be sabotaged or completely ruined in scope and execution. Considering that this idea was originally a download and a gift from the Holy Ghost in the first place... who was I to just sit on it until I could be the one to bring it out to the world fully realized and produced. As I thought about this I had to really peer into my heart and consider who's glory was the really for? Who's kingdom was this really furthering? Mine or His?...
Now I'm not saying that once you have an amazingly great idea, tool, technique, story or concept that you need to shout it from the roof tops for all to hear! All I'm saying is to truly check your heart and go before the Lord and ask him what he really wills for it. Yes, I agree that some things should be guarded and that you need to get the Holy Spirit's insight on who you share things with. But if you're holding onto concepts or ideas from a position of fear or is keeping you from building relationships professionally with others (fearing they may ask too many questions about your ideas or vision) then I'd ask the Lord to help you find that root and rip it out! It can become poison in your Spirit over time.
I had a talk with the Holy Ghost about this issue about a year ago. He basically told me this "Mark, do you think that I only have one idea or concept I'm going to give to you for the rest of your life?" "Do you not know that I've got store houses of creativity to the likes of which you've never dreamed here in Heaven... waiting to be unlocked by me in your heart? Please let me co-labor with you!"
From that moment on my door has been open to any and all Christian gaming professionals, talents and students that come calling for advice, support, prayer and mentoring (that aren't just looking to take advantage of a free meal as there are still many things I still charge for). However, I believe that by keeping your heart continually soft before the Lord and your ears listening to the Holy Spirit He will help you to move with wisdom and compassion towards those that come along your path seeking what you have inside professionally and spiritually.
What's your take on this issue?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Hey Mark, I know this post is a couple of years old, but I still feel it resonates with me. It's nice to know that there are other Christians out there in the industry who feel much the same as I do. Your words are encouraging to me. Thanks for being you.
ReplyDelete