The owners of a Phoenix art studio that has declined to make wedding invitations for same sex couples is appealing their case to the Arizona Supreme Court. 

Joanna Duka and Breanna Koski of Brush & Nib Studio lost a bid to prevent the city from enforcing its anti-discrimination ordinance. The studio creates custom artwork using hand lettering and painting and calligraphy to celebrate weddings and other events. The owners argue their work is “inextricably related” to their Christian beliefs. 

Last month, the Arizona Court of Appeals refused to hear their case, but now the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) plans to appeal to the higher court.

ADF Senior Counsel Jonathan Scruggs, who argued the case before the appellate court, said artists shouldn’t be compelled to create artwork that is contrary to their core convictions. Presently, the government is forcing Duka and Koski to convey a message about marriage they disagree with, he said.

“Breanna and Joanna are happy to design customer art for all people,” Scruggs said. “They simply object to being forced to pour their heart, soul, imagination, and talent into creating messages that violate their conscience.”