Current Exhibit: September 2023
Currently I am involved in a live stage painting at Ephrata Community Church in Clay, Pennsylvania. I am producing 12 paintings as part of my ongoing Christikon series. I have borrowed the image of Christ Pantokrator for this series because of its ancient symbolism. It stands as a bridge between the present and the past, and reminds us that the faith we practice today was birthed from traditions and ideas that were established long ago. At the same time, the 12 icons will deviate substantially from tradition, with backgrounds that contain bold colors and unique patterns. This deviation reminds us that although we have a heritage passed along by tradition, God is still at work in our own day doing something new.
Weekly Statement:
September 11, 2023
Intimacy in the Details
During the first stages of a painting, there is often a rapid transition as the painting moves from plain white to an explosion of color. Bold shapes are established and the composition quickly begins to take form. However, as the artist moves into the end-stage of the painting, most of the dramatic work is finished. This is the time to explore details, to define the interior of large shapes, and to nudge color in value and hue. During the end-stage, the painting continues to change, but it does so in subtle ways.
In my current Christicon paintings, I find myself approaching the end-stage. From the perspective of the congregation, the changes and transitions are not as dramatic, but they are occurring. From the back of the auditorium an area in the painting may appear unchanged throughout the painting process. However, as one draws closer to the image they will begin to notice these areas transforming into mixtures of intricate shapes, patterns, and colors.
A painting in the end-stage parallels the spiritual life and our relationship with God. Here, Jesus invites us into intimacy. When we first stood far off, we saw aspects of Jesus that were noticeably eye-catching. We read interesting stories about his life in the Gospels. We heard others describe their own experiences with him. We stood far away, and noticed the obvious. However, for those who accept the invitation to draw near, deeper things will be revealed.
When we approach Jesus in an intimate manner, the broad picture that was once vague becomes more defined. As we step closer we begin to relate to God as a friend who knows us better than we know ourselves. In relationship with him, we learn as much about ourselves, as we do about him. Let us accept the invitation to draw closer so that our eyes may be opened to the details we could not see when we were far away.
