What is Bez & Co?
Bez & Co is a man with the hopes of becoming a collective.
In creating this site, I seek to build a community of Creatives who are committed to creating alluring, emotionally poignant, intellectually stimulating pieces of writing, all for the glory of God. I hope to side-step the pitfalls that beleaguers much of the world of Christian art today– over-sentimentality or sanitized writing–the type of poetry you’d find in a greeting card. I also look to eschew any type of writing that is sanctimonious or self-righteous.
At Bez & Co, I strive to create art that embraces the difficulty and complexity of life and affirms humanity’s need for a Savior. What I’m after is effectual work in the traditions of the Psalmists, John Donne, C.S. Lewis, G.K. Chesterton, Madeleine L’Engle, and countless others. My tastes are eclectic, and hopefully that is reflected in the writing that I showcase here.
What’s with the name?
Bez & Co refers to Bezalel, Oholiab, and other artisans tasked with producing items for the Sanctuary of God:
“The Lord also spoke to Moses: “Look, I have appointed by name Bezalel son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. I have filled him with God’s Spirit, with wisdom, understanding, and ability in every craft to design artistic works in gold, silver, and bronze, to cut gemstones for mounting, and to carve wood for work in every craft.” ( Exodus 31:1-5, HCSB)
Bezalel (and company!) were filled with the Spirit of the Lord and commissioned by God to create finely crafted articles used in the worship of God. I chose the name Bez & Co, to affirm the calling of these individuals and their kindred spirits, Christian artists. I believe this passage affirms that God is glorified through artisans of all variety. Similarly, it is my desire that the Lord will use our craft and technique for His Kingdom.
What are your long-term goals?
All of my goals revolve around furthering the Kingdom of God through the arts. It’s my goal to provide illuminating, perceptive commentary on how to better communicate God’s truths through writing literary fiction, nonfiction, essays and poetry.
In time, it is my hope that I’ll be able to accept submissions for fiction, nonfiction, essays and poetry. I aim to start an online literary-journal in the years to follow. Eventually, I hope to feature photography and artwork as well.
My ethos is simple:
1. “Go in fear of the sanctimonious.”
2. Don’t be boring.
3. Have a point.
4. Keep Jesus first.
What types of writing will you publish?
Both poetry and prose. Poetry should avoid sounding “preachy” or heavy-handed. Fiction pieces should always show rather than tell. We will accept a variety of nonfiction, but bear in mind that this online publication aims to focus on literary writing.
Will my writing have to overtly mention God or Jesus to be showcased?
No. I recognize that as writers we can co-create with God through all types of subject-matter. I don’t want to put any additional limitations on what you can and cannot write about. When in doubt, shoot me an email.
Are you going to publish a print journal one day?
I hope so! Currently, I don’t have the time or money to facilitate a print journal, but it’s my hope that in the future this could become a reality. Stay tuned!
What if I have a question that didn’t get answered in this “About” section?
Feel free to send me an e-mail! Either contact me through the built-in form on our contact page, or e-mail me at beznco@gmail.com
Bez&Co 