June 4, 2016
A number of weeks ago i was asked to do a piece for a friend that would serve a special purpose. The aim of the artwork was to remind her of the lost, those apart from the awesome love of God. This is not that piece.
Instead, my sleep deprived self misremembered the request as to remind them of the poor and the powerless. Now, while the two groups are not exclusive, i can firmly say that they are not entirely overlapping. Indeed those apart from God may be seen thriving on earth, while those who seek Him are afflicted.
Nevertheless as i sat down and focused on the poor and powerless i began by thinking what different ways can one be afflicted. Without food, water, and shelter certainly these are material necessities. But what struck me more was that when Jesus was speaking to the masses, He spoke about those who were poor in spirit, those who mourn, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. These are things which have no outward appearance, no telltale signs of lack. What this piece became then, was a depiction of what lies under the surface. Beneath the skin of anyone who has suffered from abuse, haunting fears and crippling illnesses that are less than visible, run tears and painful memories ineffable. This is for you. Because Jesus promises the Kingdom of Heaven for the poor in spirit, comfort for the mourning, and satisfaction for those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
So often the actual process of producing art can be an emotional one. This was piece no exception. And although it wasn't exactly what was asked for, it is the reminder that i needed.