WHAT IS ELM?

Founded by Aly DelCueto, Creative elm (elm for short) is a community of creatives called to impact cultures and shift industries through all forms of artistic expression. We have a deep love for artists whether they are in the industry, church, marketplace, or home, and we desire to see heaven revealed on earth through our work.

THE MISSION

Elm exists to connect Kingdom creatives — to one another, jobs, resources, businesses, events, or other artist groups.

THE VISION

Elm is called to reveal the richness of God to the world by creating work in excellence, establishing companies that influence culture, building generational wealth to bring forth legacy and positive change, and influencing the flip of industry standards/landscapes to that which is pure and holy.

Ephesians 1:18

NAME AND HISTORY

Elm is derived from the phrase “Creative Enlightenment” envisioned in 2011 in a college dance studio. This phrase stems from the idea of a time and age of God revealing Himself through the creativity of His sons and daughters in order to bring the world back to the foundations and knowledge of our Creator, as well as our original design/identity, how we are to create, and what spheres of influence we are called to impact.

From 2023-2024, a small group formed and would meet 1-2 times a month to reawaken our own creativity, engage in deep discussions, and seek the Lord for what He wanted elm to become some day. That original elm team included Aly DelCueto, Richard Wouters, Justin March, and Danette Nelson — with love and support from the entire Wouters family and Brittany Hamilton. While it was a short season together, each of these incredible artists brought beautiful pieces to how elm will grow and evolve in the future.

CORE VALUES

  • We value what God (through both His written Word and the Holy Spirit) is saying and doing, honor how He uniquely designed each artist, and partner with Him in every creative endeavor.

  • We value the artist’s unique design by providing space for equipping, activation, connection, friendship, and collaboration.

  • We value family by cultivating a sense of belonging, establishing healthy creative dynamics without being in competition with one another, resolving conflict quickly and with integrity, and seeking generational legacy and diversity.

  • We value bringing heaven to earth through the unity of different art mediums and creative expressions in order to experience the fullness of God and bring significant change to multiple spheres of influence.

  • But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (Matthew 6:33)

    For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. (Romans 8:19)

    that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, (Ephesians 1:17-18)

    Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)

  • Love, Honor, Truth, Integrity, Authenticity, Honesty, Vulnerability, Accountability, Excellence, Stewardship, Trust, Forgiveness, Generosity, Communication, Health