SYDNEY BROADWELL

All people were born with the desire to express themselves. God, the perfect and heavenly Creator, bestowed upon creation many gifts that come from above. Of these gifts, art has taken center stage, enabling transformation and change. God’s ability to create art is reflected from the snowy mountains of Nepal to the sandy beaches of the Caribbean. Art seeps into every avenue of our lives. Humanity, following in the footsteps of its creator, uses art to communicate ideas and craft meaning. Many artists dedicate their lives to inventing and expressing understanding through their own visionary outlets. Like many artists in her life, Sydney Broadwell uses the gift of art to bless those around her and point others to Christ.

Art has always been part of Sydney’s life, but it wasn’t until an unexpected injury caused her to rethink her life path. Sydney originally planned on attending Anderson University to play soccer and major in business. Her injury, caused by soccer, led to her plans being shifted, and left Sydney wondering who she was without the sport she loved. It was during this time that she began pursuing her passion of art. Sydney began as a graphic design major and later switched to photography. While Sydney focuses on photography, she dabbles in almost every area of art. Whether that be printmaking, sculpting, pottery, or even welding, Sydney is up for the challenge. “I didn’t want to do sculpture, and yet the Lord opened the door and gave me even more possibilities.”

Sydney described life growing up on a farm in Iva, South Carolina. It was evident that she was an artist since she was a child. Sydney explains how God made her to be an artist, and because of that, it means everything to her. “He gives me dreams, visions, thoughts, and endurance to keep going.” It is through her faith that she has found her passion and mission in art. “Art is a passion and a means to spread the gospel.” Sydney’s art is the gift she believes God has given her to make disciples.

When asked about a professor who influenced her at Anderson University, Sydney explained how almost every professor has influenced her for the better. Of the instructors, Professors Jer Nelsen and Zac Benson were the most influential. Professor Nelsen was consistent and encouraging, always there to lend a listening ear. “He taught me that all things are spiritual and all are from God and for God.” Professor Benson has been a light and even leads Bible studies for students. “He taught me that God has given us gifts to steward well and glorify well.” When asked, Sydney explained that she believes Anderson University has the best professors.

When it comes to inspiration, it is Sydney’s faith that motivates her to create. “The silver lining of it all is my faith.” She explores themes of Christianity in her artwork with a central focus on displaying the Christian. People, nature, past experiences, memories, and scripture all contribute to her creative process. Sydney notes that things that stick with her and she doesn’t understand often become sources of inspiration for future projects. This inspiration helps her talk to others and share joy.

It was Sydney’s inspiration from the outside world that inspired her to write her book, “Remembering the Gaps, Reliving the Memory.” The book dives into remembering all parts of her childhood. “We all have stuff in our lives, we all have things that are hard, but the mark of a Christian is to think and live differently.” Sydney hopes the book inspires others to live with the mindset of look what I have, rather than look what I don’t have.

Outside of art, Sydney participates in Spartan races. She loves all things outdoors, including running, exercising, pickleball, paddleboarding, hiking, and swimming. Spending time with family and friends and baking are also major parts of her life. After graduation, Sydney plans to continue to grow the freelance photography business she has had for six years. She hopes to do travel photography in the future and keep making art.

Most of Sydney’s life, she knew she was an artist, but she struggled to accept that fact. She tried to run away from what her desire to create. It was the Lord who led Sydney back into art. God continually opened doors for her to walk into. Today, Sydney is proud to call herself an artist and is grateful to God for the blessings He has bestowed upon her. “I’m an artist, and I’m proud to say that. College is the first time I have ever been proud to say that.”