This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Arts & Entertainment

St. Michael Artist Creates Ring for Movie

There's a local connection to the movie "Courageous," opening at select theaters nationwide this Friday.

St. Michael artist and jewelry designer Mark Johnson has a unique role in an upcoming movie. "Courageous" opens Friday in select theaters nationwide. The film was produced and directed by Sherwood Pictures, creators of "Flywheel," "Facing the Giants" and "Fireproof."

“My family and I were really moved by 'Facing The Giants,' so while on vacation we visited the church in Albany, Ga.,  (Home of Sherwood Pictures)  and connected with some of the people involved,” Johnson said.

Since that time he’s been contacted by various actors and others involved with the film to create engagement and wedding rings. And in April 2010, director Alex Kendrick contacted Mark about creating a ring prop for "Courageous."

Find out what's happening in St. Michaelwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“He had an idea and I helped put it together,” Johnson said, “and it made the final cut.” The ring he crafted also appears in the “Courageous” music video by the popular Christian group, Casting Crowns, as well.

Johnson started designing jewelry in 1995 and has made a career of it since then. Known especially for the fingerprint rings he’s developed and his Christian themed Fishers of Men Collection of jewelry and accessories.

Find out what's happening in St. Michaelwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

But this opportunity is something else entirely for Johnson. “Getting to work with the team at Sherwood Pictures, and seeing how an entire church family is reaching out to minister to people across the world through making movies, has been the most incredible experience.”

The movie Courageous, rated PG 13, is aimed at fathers, and vows to impact families.

“It’s a profound movie,” Johnson said, he and his family were able to attend a pre-screening of the film. “There’s lots of action and it’s one that will make you laugh and cry.  You will definetly be moved by this movie."

The movie opens this Friday, Sept. 30 and will be playing at the Elk River 17 and Maple Grove 16 theaters. Johnson encourages you to check it out.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from St. Michael