Hume Creative Arts Conference

MUSIC ・ VISUAL ARTS ・WRITING

October 16-19, 2025

Cultivating the arts and supporting artists who are putting their hands to work for the glory of God

A place for artists, musicians, storytellers, and creators to gather together and cultivate their creative gifts, to encourage one another, and be newly equipped to illuminate the world with the goodness, truth, and beauty of Jesus.

2025 Keynote Speakers

Russ Ramsey bio picture

Russ Ramsey

Pastor/Author

Jackson Arnett bio picture

Jackson Arnett

Pastor

Workshop Speakers

Joshua Smith bio picture

Joshua Smith

Photographer

Titania Paige bio picture

Titania Paige

Creative/bible nerd/community cultivator

Nathan Engelhardt bio picture

Nathan Engelhardt

Animator

Grace Garrett bio picture

Grace Garrett

Painter

Kevin Lanflisi bio picture

Kevin Lanflisi

Spoken word artist

Jeremy Spears bio picture

Jeremy Spears

STORYBOARDER

ARTIST

Dallas DeWitt bio picture

Dallas DeWitt

Joshua Wilderness institute director

Tobey Chui bio picture

Tobey Chui

Artist

Carol Park bio picture

Carol Park

Poet

Harrison Wise bio picture

Harrison Wise

Camp Director

Mentors

Norm Daniels

Artist

Sheryl Knight

Artist

Worship Leader

Brian Albright bio picture

Brian Albright

Musician

Special Guests

Thomas Austin bio picture

Thomas Austin

Musician

Tinayeshe

Musician

Tanner Moore bio picture

Tanner Moore

Musician

2025 Workshops

Presented by Russ Ramsey

One of the most heart-breaking parts of Van Gogh’s story is how he often remembered his outbursts and breakdowns. This multi-media presentation outlines the details of the fateful night Van Gogh cut off his ear, and examines the sacred work of what it looks like to steward one another’s pain. If the Lord, in his kindness, gives us the blessing of friendship, he is most certainly calling us to the holy work of burden bearing. Van Gogh’s life shows us that to really know a person is, at least in part, to know them by their sorrows. Be gentle. This is a hard world. 

Presented by Nathan Engelhardt

Come animate with Nathan Engelhardt, one of the Writers & Directors of the new animated short film, Forevergreen. In this interactive workshop, get an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at how we animated the unique wooden characters of the film. 

Presented by Thomas Austin

“What does it mean?” If you’ve ever shared your art with somebody, you’ve probably been asked this question. And if you’re like Thomas, you’ve probably stumbled through an answer which, though honest, still felt as if it left a whole lot of things out. In this session, Thomas shares songs and thoughts on what he calls “the paradox of meaning,” and why it has implications for every kind of art, every kind of life, and every kind of faith. 

Presented by Jackson Arnett

One of the worst things we can do in a creative project is to end up working against the vision of our Pastor. It never happens on purpose, but it happens and probably happens too much. The other thing that deflates church creatives is countless revisions until the project isn’t even our project anymore. The root of both of these issues? Miscommunication. What if there were a set of questions you could ask to better understand the theological direction of your pastor and ways to express it creatively that enhanced their vision instead of hijacking it? That’s what we will explore in this session. Hope to see you there! 

Presented by Tobey Chui 

In many East Asian countries, rich cultural art forms are deeply woven into everyday life. Although missionaries often face challenges due to limited access to the Gospel, they’ve found that artists can be key in bridging that gap. In this workshop, participants will explore the basics of an intangible cultural heritage art form and reflect on how the artistry can become a way to communicate the glory of Christ. This activity encourages creativity and open hearts to the possibilities of using local art forms in missions.
*Signups required 

Presented by Tobey Chui

Explore Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and the Philippines, where art and culture are deeply connected to the spiritual lives of the peoples. In this hands-on session, participants will learn the art of Batik, a traditional fabric-dyeing technique commonly practiced in Southeast Asia. They will discover the significance of learning local art forms, such as Batik, and how these creative expressions can open doors for meaningful Gospel conversations in cross-cultural missions.
*Signups required 

Presented by Titania Paige

Pain is an inevitable part of the human experience—but what happens when time doesn’t heal? When spiritual wounds from past trauma linger, even after we’ve “moved on”? Or when physical recovery doesn’t feel like strength, but more suffering? 

In this heartfelt workshop, Titania Paige shares her personal story, artwork created in the midst of her healing journey, and practical, biblical teaching to help you: 

  • Break free from common myths about God’s healing process. 
  • See how Christ-centered creativity and community play a vital role in restoring wholeness. 
  • And begin simple, life-giving habits that support healing and meaningful connection. 

Presented by Grace Garrett

Creating art from Scripture is one way we can draw near to God’s Word and allow it to shape us. This session invites you to reflect on Scripture and respond with your own creative voice. We’ll explore how ideas are stirred through stillness and reflection, how different styles can reveal truth, and how our art might serve and encourage others in both big and small ways. No matter your skill level, this is a chance to bring faith and creativity together in a meaningful way.  

*A handful of art supplies will be provided, but attendees are encouraged to bring their favorite medium to practice.  

Presented by Joshua Smith

Join us for an inspiring workshop where you’ll learn straightforward tips and foundational concepts to grow your photography skills. We’ll explore ideas like finding inspiration, practicing the art of seeing, and applying key principles such as framing, leading lines, and using light effectively. Along the way, you’ll hear personal insights and practical advice to help you capture more engaging, meaningful images. Whether you’re a beginner or have years behind the lens, this workshop will encourage you to keep developing your craft and discovering the beauty around you. 

Presented by Joshua Smith

This workshop focuses on editing outdoor nature and landscape photographs, using techniques that apply broadly to other subjects and styles. I’ll walk through my complete process, showing how I transform raw files into finished images—sharing tips, answering questions, and demonstrating softwares and practical tools along the way. You’ll also have the chance to submit your own photo for live editing. Whether you’re refining subtle details or making bold creative choices, you’ll leave with new ideas and methods to elevate your work. 

Optional: Join me for a Saturday sunrise photo session at the lake, where I’ll be shooting alongside you and ready to help as we capture the morning light. 

Presented by Jeremy Spears

Come along the adventure with your story wilderness guide Jeremy Spears as he leads us on the exploration into the creation of the story of Forevergreen! We’ll learn practical tips and tricks on how to put a smile on audience’s faces and maybe how to help them shed a tear or two.   

  Bring along your sketchbook, as you never know when story inspiration will strike. You don’t want to miss out on this fun and challenging experience! Can’t wait to see you all there! 

Presented by Kevin Lanflisi

Most poems are written with the goal of being read. Spoken word poems are written to be performed. In this workshop, we will walk through the tips and tricks to write a powerful, stage-worthy poem as well as talk through how to deliver it in a way that will make an impact. 

Presented by Brian Albright

What is the role of artistry in worship? Does leading worship mean setting aside creativity in order to honor God? In this workshop, we’ll explore the vital role of creativity in the worship life of the church. Together, we’ll dive into the biblical foundation for artistry, the impact of songwriting in your local context, and how stewarding your creative gifts can deepen your personal devotion and serve your community well.  

Presented by Dallas DeWitt

The British evolutionary biologist J.B.S. Haldane was once asked, “If you believed in a creator, what could be inferred about his nature based on the study of creation?” He famously replied, “If there is a creator, he has an inordinate fondness for beetles.” 

With over 350,000 described species, beetles—members of the order Coleoptera—make up a remarkable portion of all known animal life. 

As followers of Jesus, we can marvel at God’s creativity by observing His design in the highly specialized, vibrant, and sometimes bizarre diversity of beetles. From giant rhinoceros beetles to colorful weevils, dung beetles to longhorns, we will explore the nature of the Creator through His evident fondness for these fascinating creatures. 

Join us for a hands-on seminar as we study various subspecies of Coleoptera. A limited supply of beetles will be available for pinning and mounting. 

 *Signups required

Artists are invited to participate in a unique mentorship experience with esteemed artists Sheryl Knight and Norm Daniels. This is a rare opportunity to receive thoughtful, constructive feedback on your work from two highly respected figures in the art community. Each participating artist will be given a 15-minute, one-on-one session to present their work, ask questions, and gain valuable insights. Whether you’re seeking guidance, inspiration, or simply a fresh perspective, this session is designed to support your artistic growth. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and elevate your creative journey!
* Please bring either a hard copy of your work to be critiqued, or a picture of your work on an iPad or tablet. Please note that phone screens will be too small to make observations and offer helpful advice.

Join us by the lake for a special live painting demonstration featuring artists Sheryl Knight and Norm Daniels. With two uniquely different styles, Sheryl and Norm will each interpret the landscape in their own way, offering a fascinating look into their creative processes. Attendees are encouraged to observe, engage, and ask questions as the artists work—an inspiring opportunity to see art in action and gain insight from two seasoned professionals.

Presented by Carol Park

For new and emerging writers – join an inspiring workshop where you’ll explore approachable and contemporary devotional writings of various kinds. You’ll also discuss how metaphor and imagery can help convey your feelings and ideas. You’ll be given time to generate your own work. Bring your preferred way to draft: a computer, iPad, phone, or pen (I’ll have paper). Participants will be offered the opportunity to read newly generated work in a safe environment. A list of magazines and webzines for explicitly Christian writing will be on hand. 

Presented by Carol Park

How can the sacred enter the secular world? All genres are portals. We’ll explore contemporary writers who have published outside obviously Christian sites & presses, including Mary Oliver, and brief memoir and fiction pieces. We’ll discuss: using the senses and what makes an ending work well. How to hint and point, as in Jesus’ parables—vital in a world grown hostile. Ample time to write allowed, so bring your preferred way to draft: a computer, iPad, phone, or pen (I’ll have paper). Participants will be offered the opportunity to read newly generated work in a safe environment. 

More Workshops to Come!

Registration includes programming and meals

Use the code ARTS50 to get $50 off Registration!

*Discount applied at checkout*

Lodging

$484

Per Person

Lodging

$454 

Per Person

Lodging

$414 

Per Person

Bring your Own

$404 

Per Person

Self Provided Lodging

$384 

Per Person

*If registering as an individual, after you click the “Register” button, click the “Register My Family” option on the next page.*

Single Occupancy can be requested for an additional $50/per night.

(Based on availability and not guaranteed)

Need Financial Help?

We know things are tough, so we’ve made scholarships available for every guest that needs them.
You can apply for a Campership in the registration process online.

DELUXE

The Hotel Experience

Single Occupancy for Added Fee

Standard

The Dorm Experience

minimum of 8 guests required

Economy

The Camp Experience

minimum Requirement varies depending on cabin size

Event Only

No Housing Cost Added

IMPORTANT
Some older mapping services will suggest you take the 245. It is a curvy, winding road that will take you at least an additional hour. DO NOT take 245!

Check in starts at 3:00 PM the first day of the retreat.

You need to be checked out of your lodging by 11:00 AM the last day of the retreat.

We provide:

Dinner the first day of the retreat

All meals each full day of the retreat

Breakfast and lunch the last day of the retreat

We do not offer free guest WiFi at this point in time. We do offer Internet for a fee; however, the speeds here are not fast. Purchase at your own risk.

Yes, there is a non-refundable and non-transferrable deposit of $100 per person due at the time of registration.

At the time of cancellation, your non-refundable and non-transferable deposit of $100 will be forfeited.

At this time, we do not have an electric charging station at Hume or outlets available for charging vehicles. We encourage you to fully charge your electric vehicle before heading up the mountain.

We want our retreats to be accessible to everyone! To help make this possible, Hume can accommodate gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets. Because of the high cost of providing for special dietary needs, there is an extra surcharge for these special diets. Please refer to our Special Diet Policy for more information. 

Questions?

  • Contact Us

Do you prefer the phone?

Call our Hume Information team
 1 (559) 305-7770

Dr. Erik Thoennes

Speaker

Erik Thoennes is a Professor of Theology at Biola University and a pastor at Grace EVFree, La Mirada. He was voted Professor of the Year twice and was awarded the Faculty Excellence Award by his colleagues at Biola University. He is the author of “Life’s Biggest Questions: What the Bible Says About the Things that Matter Most,” and “Biblical and Theological Studies: A Student’s Guide,” Erik and his wife Donna have four children and love the people and ministry of Hume Lake!

Thaddeus Williams

Speaker

Thaddeus Williams (Ph.D., Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam) serves as professor of theology for Biola University. He is also the author of the best-seller Confronting Injustice without Compromising Truth and Don’t Follow Your Heart. He has also taught Philosophy and Literature at Saddleback College, Jurisprudence at Trinity Law School, Worldview at L’Abri Fellowships in Switzerland and Holland, and Ethics for the Federalist Society in Washington D.C.

Jerry Root

Speaker

Dr. Jerry Root is professor emeritus at Wheaton College, as well as a visiting professor at Biola University, Talbot Graduate School of Theology, and Moody Bible Institute teaching C. S. Lewis courses at all three schools. For over forty-one years, Dr. Root has lectured on C.S. Lewis topics at 78 universities in 18 countries. He is the author of numerous C.S. Lewis focused books, articles and publications. He is married to Claudia Root and together they have four married children and 15 grandchildren.

Russ Ramsey

Speaker

Russ Ramsey, MDiv, has a passion for uniting art and faith. A pastor at Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, he is also the author of six books, including Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart (Zondervan 2024) and Rembrandt is in the Wind (Zondervan 2022).

Jackson Arnett

Speaker

Jackson is the Creative Pastor at High Desert Church and has served there for the last 4 years. He and his wife, Sky, have been married for 6 years and have 2 sons, Hezekiah (Hezi) and Titus. Jackson loves spending time with his family, watching the Chargers/Dodgers/Lakers, and anytime he can get near a beach.

Joshua Smith

Speaker

Joshua has over two decades of creative and branding experience with Christian organizations—beginning with 10 years at Hume Lake Christian Camps. He and his wife own Pillar Brands, a design and content marketing agency in Fresno (CA) where they serve national ministries and faith-based organizations. His longtime passion for photography has recently led to exciting adventures including worldwide travels, a fine art photography business & a teaching position at Fresno Pacific University.

Titania Paige

Speaker

Titania Paige is the founder of the Lamp Burners’ Guild (@lampburnersguild)–A backyard faith and arts community gathering artists, storytellers, musicians, and creatives to inspire hope and awaken wonder as we await Christ’s return. To bring God’s beauty to her hometown of Memphis, TN, she and her family open their home monthly for a potluck, art showcase, and training from local artists. A designer by day and a Bible teacher and song-writer by night, she’s just doing her best and trusting God with the results.

Nathan Engelhardt

Speaker

Nathan Engelhardt (@nathan.engelhardt) is a supervising animator for Walt Disney Animation Studios. He was born and raised in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago and attended the Savannah College of Art and Design, majoring in Animation. He has animated many Disney movies, including Wreck it Ralph, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, Moana, Frozen 2, Encanto, and many more. He is currently working on a short animated film which was inspired by the Gospel. Nathan and his wife Julie live in Los Angeles with their four delightful kids.

Grace Garrett

Speaker

Grace Garrett is a watercolor and gouache artist based in Northern California.
Grace has a passion for art and finding beauty in everyday life. She received her degree in Media, Culture, and the Arts from The King’s College in New York City.
Grace’s work is inspired by country and city life, her travels abroad, and life as a mom. She also finds inspiration in Scripture and uses art as a tool for meditating on God’s word. Grace seeks to delight and inspire wonder through her work.

Kevin Lanflisi

Speaker

Hi, I’m Kevin. I grew up in the “Bay Areaaaa” (*E40 voice*). I am married to the woman of my dreams. Her name is Sarah, and years ago she taught me that I was worthy of being loved while being the truest version of myself. She has seen my darkest days and is still by my side. We live in Long Beach, CA and love it. We have a daughter, Jordyn. She’s four, she’s adorable and she knows it. I love Jesus and I understand grace better than most.

Jeremy Spears

Speaker

Jeremy Spears (@whittlewoodshop) is an Annie Award Winning Story Artist at the Walt Disney Animation Studios. His latest projects at Disney include Wish, Encanto, Zootopia and Wreck-it Ralph. He is also the owner of the Whittle Woodshop, where he enjoys designing and creating passion projects in his free time. He is currently working on a short film project meant to reflect the light of Christ’s love for us into this world. He lives in the Central Coast of California with his wife Lisa and 4 children.

Dallas DeWitt

Speaker

Dallas has worked at Hume Lake for 10 years and currently runs the Joshua Wilderness Institute, a 9 month discipleship program seeking to help college aged students set a foundation for a life worthy of the gospel. He has too many hobbies and usually doesn’t get chores around the house done because he is working on motorcycles or pinning beetles.

Tobey Chui

Speaker

Tobey is an Arts in Mission Advocate with OMF (omf.org), dedicated to equipping believers to share God’s love in places where Jesus is little known. She leads a mission initiative that mobilizes artists and creatives for missions across Asia. With a background in art and design, she is passionate about using various art forms as a bridge for creative engagement. She holds a Master of Divinity, specializing in Intercultural Studies, and is committed to empowering others for global mission work.

Carol Park

Speaker

Carol Park writes stories, memoir, and poetry. Recently, Kelsay Books released her mini-stories of journeying toward God and love in free verse. Find her published works at www.CarolPark.us. When her fingers aren’t busy with words, she delights in reading, teaching, hiking, and volunteering in a jail. She earned her MFA in Creative Writing at Seattle Pacific University.

Harrison Wise

Speaker

Harrison is the Camp Director for Meadow Ranch and Winter Camp at Hume Lake. He has been serving at Hume Christian Camps in a part-time capacity since 2016 and full-time since 2019. He is married to his wife Katelyn since 2022. Before Hume, Harrison studied managerial communication at Point Loma Nazarene University.

Norm Daniels

Speaker

In June of 1979 Norm (@barefoot_norm) moved to Hume Lake with his wife, Patsy where he became a full-time camp artist and designer. In 2005 Norm and his family moved back to their original roots in San Diego to take the position of Executive Director at Pine Valley Bible Conference Center. After a series of small strokes Norm retired from camping and took up painting full-time. You can find his art at Tabora Gallery in Waikiki; Birds Surf Shed in San Diego; Playa O’este in Rincon P.R. and … the trunk of his car.

Instagram: @normhere

Leah Petersen

Speaker

Leah (@inkwoodandfire) has had an artistic bent since childhood and views creating art as a way that she is an image bearer of God. She studied art at Biola University. As an artist Leah has most recently focused on colored pencil drawing and relief printing, particularly tree ring prints. She loves being outdoors and enjoying the amazing beauty where she lives in the mountains of California. Leah is married to her talented husband Brian, a filmmaker and photographer, and together they have six kids.

Instagram: @inkwoodandfire

Liz Hetzel

Speaker

Liz Hetzel oversees Creative Worship and Arts at Fullerton Free Church. More than 27 years of being a Disneyland performer has deepened her understanding of storytelling’s ability to fuel transformation. Her skills in verbal storytelling have been honed by her educational training in screenwriting, creative writing, and TV/Film production. Liz is passionate about how storytelling and dance are powerful tools for expressing one’s faith and connecting with God.

Martha Irvine

Speaker

Martha Irvine (@worshipvoicecoach) is the Director of Voice Coaching for Likewise Worship. With a graduate degree in Contemporary and Commercial Voice Pedagogy, over 20 years of worship leadership, and over a decade teaching voice, Martha is a self-professed voice nerd. Her teaching, shaped by personal voice injury experience, empowers singers with techniques for vocal freedom, helping them find their unique God-given voices.

Sheryl Knight

Speaker

Sheryl (@sheryl_knight_fine_art) is an award-winning plein air artist painting primarily in oil, but also in gouache. She is honored to have earned the status of Signature Member in five national art organizations. Known for her expressive style and vibrant yet tranquil color palette, her passion and joy is to reflect the beauty of God’s creation and to bless others with it. She and her family have been a part of the Hume Community for many years. For more information please visit her website is www.sherylknight.com.

Charlie March

Speaker

Charlie comes from a 30-year residential carpentry career, has an MA in Biblical Studies, and a PhD in late-Roman architecture and archaeology. He is the author of A Carpenter’s View of the Bible, which fulfilled a twenty-five-year vision of God as builder, designer-artisan, fittingly written by one of his children with that bent to their nature. It discusses Jesus, the tekton at Nazareth, biblical cities, their architectural elements, and the people who built and lived in them.

Justin Unger

Speaker

Justin serves primarily as the Executive Director with Likewise Worship (@likewiseworship). He is a pastor of pastors and has a heart to disciple, equip and encourage both young and seasoned worship leaders that are called to serve the local church.Passionate about unifying the Body of Christ with the gift of music, he has learned to stand firm amidst the cultural and traditional challenges that many churches face in regard to worship. He is married to his wife Falon, and they have 4 beautiful children. 

Walter Harrah

Speaker

After his training in classical church music at USC, Walter Harrah became a Screen Actors Guild singer for four decades, joining the Oscar choir, singing for Adele, Roy Rogers, the Carpenters, Bob Dylan, and Paul McCartney. He is currently the worship elder at Grace EV Free Church in La Mirada. Walt’s current passion is reviving the hymn form, writing lyrics that express the beauty of the gospel truth to a new generation, while still ensuring that the hymns of old are not completely abandoned.

Laura Love

Speaker

Laura Love is an introverted homeschool mom of five who often feels torn between her need for community and her need for quiet, both in creative endeavors and in life. Her creativity comes in the forms of homemaking, juggling impossible schedules, finding beauty in the ordinary, and writing poetry, which she is even learning to share sometimes.

Brian Albright

Speaker

Brian Albright is a songwriter, producer, & worship pastor serving at Branches HB in Huntington Beach, CA. Albright has been a lifelong Orange County resident, where he has dedicated to building a vibrant and thriving worship culture in the area. Brian is married to his wife Kelsey and together they have two awesome children, Billie and Abner!

Thomas Austin

Speaker

Thomas Austin is a theo-folk singer and writer who really doesn’t like writing about himself in the third person, but here he is, doing it anyway. He has released two EPs, Indiana and Evergreen, and one full-length album, Eternal Life, which you can find anywhere music is streamed, sold, or held ransom. He lives in Nashville with his wife Skye. He enjoys playing concerts at churches, venues, and even houses (he does this often and it’s less weird than you think).

Tinayeshe

band

Tinayeshe is a singer/songwriter based out of Charlotte, NC. He writes music that connects a diverse group of people and points them to Jesus. He curates shows that make space for intimacy, vulnerability, and communion because there (with Jesus and those he shares himself with), he is learning to find true joy. His debut album, Through the Valley, expresses the ins and outs of that journey to true joy and deep love. His upcoming, nearly fully funded second album, Communion, invites you to join in.

Tanner Moore

Band

Tanner is a Singer songwriting from San Luis Obispo California. He now lives in Thousand Oaks and works in youth ministry while producing indi Christian music in his free time.

Deluxe Lodging

The Hotel Experience

Single occupancy for added fee

Standard Lodging

Standard Lodging (no linens)

The Dorm Experience

minimum of 8 guests required

Economy Lodging

The Camp Experience

minimum Requirement varies depending on cabin size

RV Site

RV Sites

Bring Your Own
Home-On-Wheels

Adult Retreats

Event-only Lodging

No housing cost will be added to your event fees

Deposit and cancellation policy – ADult/Family Retreats

Deposits for Adult/Family Retreats

(New Policy beginning Spring 2026)

  1. Initial Deposit – $100 per spot, due at time of registration
  2. Second Deposit – Additional $100 per spot, due 90 days prior to check-in
Cancellations for Adult/Family Retreats
  1. If a spot is cancelled, the $100 deposit put down at the time of registration is forfeited.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected].

Pet/Animal Policy

For visitors and guests at Hume, no pets or animals are allowed in Hume housing or buildings. While Hume understands the benefit of service & support animals, our unique housing and locations are incompatible with service animals

If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at [email protected].

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