Ep 20. How Great Thou Art

In the season 2 episode 20 of Designing Women, titled How Great Thou Art, the audience is treated to a delightful blend of humor and heartfelt moments, exploring themes of faith, friendship, and personal growth. The episode opens with the women of Sugarbaker and Associates in the midst of a bustling workday, filled with the usual banter and camaraderie that has become a hallmark of the show. However, the atmosphere is soon charged with an unexpected topic: spirituality and the significance of art in expressing one's beliefs.

As the storyline unfolds, each character grapples with their own relationship to faith and creativity, leading to a lively discussion about what art means to them. Sugarbaker sisters Julia and Suzanne stand at the forefront, embodying contrasting views. Julia, embodying a more traditional and introspective perspective, believes art should reflect one’s inner self and serve a higher purpose. She often draws inspiration from her Southern roots and traditional values, portraying a nuanced understanding of how art can influence personal and communal beliefs.

Conversely, Suzanne, with her flamboyant personality and celebrity aspirations, sees art as primarily a means of self-expression and flair. Her humorous takes on the subject create both tension and levity, as she attempts to assert her views with typical Southern bravado. The interplay between the sisters highlights not only their differences but also their deep-seated love and respect for one another, a recurring theme in the series.

Meanwhile, the episode also features Mary Jo, who finds herself struggling with her own artistic endeavors. As a working mother, she often feels torn between her responsibilities and her passions, offering a relatable perspective for viewers. Her journey towards rediscovering her love for design is both comical and poignant, as the pressures of daily life begin to overshadow her artistic aspirations. Mary Jo’s struggle serves as a reminder of the challenges many face in balancing personal dreams with practical obligations.

The subplot involving Charlene sees her reflecting on the role of faith and community in the pursuit of one's passions. This is particularly illustrated through Charley’s interactions with a local choir group seeking to create a performance that resonates with their audience. Her efforts to blend her love for singing with her spiritual journey add depth to the episode, highlighting the interconnectedness of community, creativity, and personal belief.

As the characters navigate their artistic pursuits and spiritual questions, they engage in several comedic yet thought-provoking conversations. Each woman brings her own unique perspective to the table, resulting in lively debates that both entertain and inspire. Their witty repartee and signature Southern charm remain consistent, perfectly capturing the essence of the series.

In addition to the hilarious exchanges, the episode also contains moments of vulnerability and self-reflection. As the women discuss their artistic influences and what faith means to each of them, viewers are invited to contemplate their own beliefs and how these shape their lives. The writers skillfully weave humor with deeper themes, making this episode not only enjoyable but also illuminating.

The relationships built within the episode are characterized by warmth and support, showcasing the strong bonds of friendship that the main characters share. The conversation transitions from lighthearted banter to more serious revelations, illustrating how these women can rely on one another for guidance and encouragement. The nurturing atmosphere among the Sugarbaker team serves as a reminder of the importance of community, especially during times of self-doubt.

As the episode progresses, we witness critical moments of revelation for each character that lead them to re-evaluate their respective paths. The culmination of these journeys creates a powerful message about the importance of pursuing one’s passions, celebrating art, and honoring one’s beliefs.

How Great Thou Art seamlessly blends laughter with thoughtful commentary on issues of faith, creativity, and the influence of community support, making it a memorable entry in the Designing Women series. The combination of humor and sincerity allows it to resonate with audiences while staying true to the show's signature style.

Overall, episode 20 of season 2 presents a charming exploration of how art, faith, and friendship intertwine, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences. The episode not only entertains but also encourages viewers to embrace their individuality and the beauty of their creative expressions, making it a standout chapter of this beloved series.