Amy Schultz, Artist

"Trust Me"

This phrase is one I often hear from the Holy Spirit at every new level of growth on my walk. The Holy Spirit has been impressing upon my spirit the idea of offering paintings and photographs inspired by Him, through His living word and the world that surrounds us.

He orchestrates opportunities for us to embrace each day as we walk in the present moment. Recently, the Holy Spirit asked me "If not now, then when?" Our actions are guided not by present circumstances but through faith in what is unseen, according to His will and glory. I am in surrender to Jesus Christ, the One who reigns on high, and there are no more delays; my only response is "Now!" Now is the time!

Today IS a Great Day! Praise, Glory and all Honor for this gift to our Father who freely gives it to us! He orchestrates the sunrise and sunset every day, a pure gift! God is so Good!

Inspiration

My process and my inspiration come as gifts from the Holy Spirit. I am worthy solely through Christ, who cleansed me through His death and resurrection power, uniting me with my Father in Heaven and the Holy Spirit as my friend and helper. God provides the story, title, and His living word for each painting.

When I remain in the Spirit and release the illusion of creative control to the Almighty, His presence and power guide my brushstrokes. Multiple sources serve as my inspiration on this journey.

Visuals emerge from specific scripture verses, praise and worship songs, the beauty of nature captured in moments or photographs, conversations with others, and — most frequently — during prayer and dialogue with the Holy Spirit. Ideas might appear as fleeting thoughts or elaborate visions; regardless, they shape the canvas image's details while I paint, accompanied by praise and worship music.

About Me

I reside in Peoria, Arizona with my God-given best friend in my husband and our furry animal companion. Travel, exploration, and nature make my heart feel alive, connecting with the world around me. Living in a micro-climate like the state of Arizona makes quick day trips or weekend getaways easily accessible, with Sedona and Flagstaff offering a completely different nature environment.

I enjoy spending time among the trees or the water every opportunity I am blessed with. There is a special connection to the elements that God provides for us. I have a love for God's people and His creation. I find joy in the unique personalities of animals and the extra love they bring to our lives. My greatest love and primary pursuit in my life is my relationship with my Heavenly Father.

Step of Faith

My grandmother was a talented artist, a gift unbeknownst to me until later in life. I had believed the enemy and his lies for much of my journey, doubting this gift's existence within me and convincing myself not to pursue it.

Have you also encountered similar lies from the adversary? God is good and glorified in all! Every circumstance unfolds as it should, in perfect timing. Often, I've learned where there is a spirit of discouragement or fear in the face of new creative ventures. Experience has taught me that stepping out and responding in faith in the Spirit usually leads to outcomes opposite to what I initially perceived in the flesh. This principle holds particularly true for God's gifts, which often face opposition as they manifest for the greater good of His Kingdom.

First Painting

An invitation from my dear friend, Hannah, marked the beginning of my artistic journey. She asked me over for dinner and to create my first painting. A skilled artist herself, Hannah recognized my love for the beach and had prepared a video tutorial for a captivating beach wave scene we could create together. We began our paintings, and four hours later — we finished the paintings! Although I immediately began critiquing my work, Hannah halted my self-doubt. She stressed the significance of words. She told me this was an amazing first painting and God had indeed gifted me with talent.

She said she would never have believed this to be a first painting — the video tutorial was an advanced painting, and she hadn't realized it when first selecting it for us to paint. She looked forward to the day someone would present me with a photograph to paint and watch God's gift revealed naturally. I hung the painting on the wall and cherished the realization that I created it — a gift from God!

On that day, God's grace and light dispelled the enemy's lies. I began accepting photographs from family and friends and made them into paintings, and God's gift — also present in my grandmother — became undeniable. I claimed and embraced this good gift from God, the original, perfect Creator!