David Lee | Founder, SowEpic

So, tell us a bit about who you are, and how you first got involved with Epiphany Space.

As part of SowEpic’s events I was hosting a “Hero Huddle”, a gathering spot for those of us passionate about the worlds of fandoms, gaming, and spiritual communities when Melissa showed up. She told me about Epiphany Space, this incredible hub where artists and creators of all stripes come together to network, share, and inspire. Melissa invited me over to an Artist Hangout they were hosting—she told us it was part of the vibrant life at Epiphany Space. I was amazed to find a melting pot where all sorts of creative souls gather. It was like finding a new gear in a car you thought you knew well. It wasn’t just the overlap of worlds that got me; it was their rich, mutual enrichment. The hangout was so spot-on with the kind of community and connection we dreamed of fostering at SowEpic that we made it a part of our regular rhythm. It’s about creating that inclusive space where you can let your guard down, dive into your passions, and see how they all interlace with faith in the most natural, uplifting way. It’s kind of like discovering your tribe, you know? That’s the vibe that snagged me, and it's been a cornerstone of our journey ever since.

Who inspires you? What creative people or creative works make you say, “I want to do that”?

Who Lights Up My Creative Spark? There are these moments in gaming and movies that just… wow, you know? It’s the stories, the art, the epic boundless creativity that catches my breath every single time. They light a fire in me, pushing me to dive in and craft something just as monumental. It’s not about echoing what’s already out there but about striking that match within to forge something fresh, something uniquely ours. It’s here, in this creative crucible, where faith and creativity aren’t just passing acquaintances but dance partners, spotlighting our shared narrative. And how do I scratch that creative itch, you ask? Well, I’ve taken on the mantle of Dungeon Master for several groups that are an integral part of our mission to embrace and serve the nerd community. It’s in these sessions, amidst the dice rolls and character arcs, that I find a vibrant canvas for storytelling. Each campaign weaves together the threads of fantasy, adventure, and clashing virtues, crafting a tapestry where each player’s journey contributes to our collective story. It’s a space where imagination meets spirituality, where each session is a step further into a world where both can flourish side by side, feeding that creative spark in ways that keep surprising me. Also, my community endlessly inspires me. All these creatives out here bringing dreams to life, even in our current economic climate. There are no “good times” for art. It is something that, like the lotus flower, is birthed in hardship that bares the soul. This includes my family that brings new breath to my creative vision. 

What are some of the challenges you’ve faced along the way, and how did you deal with them?

Navigating the bumps in the road, oh boy, where do I start? Blending faith with nerddom wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. There was a fair bit of eyebrow-raising and head-scratching from both sides. But, you push through, right? Staying true to what you believe, while opening your arms wide to welcome everyone. It’s about showing that divine creativity isn’t this add-on app you install in your life; it’s the operating system running the whole show. Getting the two realms to normalize with each other will take some goodwill and a gentle touch, but it is a fight worth fighting. 

Are you working on anything cool or interesting right now? Anything you’d like to tell us about?

Right now? We’re dreaming big and bringing those dreams to life with projects like a fantasy-themed restaurant that promises to be a feast for the soul, not just the stomach. On top of that, we’re broadening our presence at conventions and launching our very own SowEpiCast streaming studios. But wait, there’s more on the menu. We’ve launched a podcast titled Show Epic, aiming to become the go-to nerd news outlet for Columbus, GA. It’s where pop culture and gaming in Columbus converge, offering insights and stories you won’t find anywhere else. And for the Tolkien fans out there, get ready for The Shire Adventures, our D&D Lord of the Rings actual play series premiering this May. Picture this: four hobbits, life in the Shire, all set before the War of the Ring unfolds. It’s an adventure that promises to be both epic and heartwarming, drawing you into the quieter corners of Middle Earth. We’re also in the throes of creating tabletop games and books that are sure to kindle the imagination. To keep up with these and all our other ventures, make sure to follow SowEpic on Facebook. 
 

Where do you see your creative journey taking you? What would you like to be doing, say, five years from now?

Looking ahead, I see SowEpic evolving into a beacon of hope and creativity, where faith and fandom are not just parallel tracks but intertwined paths that lead to a deeper understanding of our place in God’s grand narrative. In five years, I envision a thriving community where individuals are empowered to express their faith through their passions, whether it be gaming, art, or storytelling. I can see our streaming platform taking off, and our cafe becoming a hive for fantasy themed destinations. The future is bright! 
 

What advice would you give to other artists and creatives in your field? Any words of wisdom for those looking to follow in your footsteps?



To those walking similar paths, my advice is simple yet profound: stay true to your vision, even when the journey gets tough. Remember, your unique passions and interests are not just hobbies; they are gifts from God, pathways to experience divine wisdom and share it with the world. Dive deep into your creativity, let your faith guide you, and never underestimate the power of community to transform lives. In this endeavor, authenticity and empathy are your greatest allies . Navigating this journey with SowEpic has been an extraordinary experience, one that continues to unfold in wonderfully unexpected ways. The stories we’ve shared and the lives we’ve touched stand as a testament to the transformative power of combining faith with the boundless universes of creativity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with you and excited for what the future holds.