The word inspiration is derived from the Latin word to breathe. My inspiration is the God breathed creation of water that flows from the Source of all Life. Just like water flows, the Holy Spirit moves the artist when they are in the flow of creating art. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit will breathe life into me as I worship Him in His Creation.
This painting was commissioned by a friend, and the reference photo was taken from her barn loft. Thanks, Melissa, I really enjoyed working on this view of the Appalachians and beyond. The barn has a lower floor for stables and an upper level as a guest house with a stone fireplace and an elevator. Betcha never have seen anything like this before! And my painting will be displayed over the fireplace in the most elegant barn I've ever had the priviledge to visit!
"The one who delights in the Lord shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water whose fruit ripens and whose leaf does not wither. For whatever He does shall prosper." Psalms 1:3 God gives us many promises in the Bible. His Living Water is enough to give abundant Life now and Eternal Life in the future to those who delight in Him..
The prophet Amos said "Let Justice flow like a river and Righteousness like an unfailing stream. 5:24 An unfailing stream has a source of water that is deep and never ending. It flows into a river and the river flows into an ocean. I love the metaphors of the Bible. Truth is explained so clearly for those who seek it. Justice and Righteouness come from the Source of Living Water which is God. And He never fails!!! Truth, Goodness and Beauty flow from the throne in Heaven, the source of our Living Water!
My husband and I hiked to the waterfall at Roaring Run a few days ago. For these falls, I relied on photographs, inspiration and imagination in order to work on composition. I am finding that the desire to rearrange and compose is much more fun than sticking so closely to the photograph. Letting my paint brush follow the light and shadow patterns and the flow of water is so relaxing. Going with the flow of life, knowing God will shine His light on the path gives peace beyond understanding.
After fighting with these waves, I am so glad that I chose to paint water in all its forms! It is indeed challenging, but I always love to stretch and grow in my abilities. An online class helped and I am looking forward to exploring more images of water. I also find much joy in praising my Savior for the Beauty of this world. God calls Himself the "Spring of Living water"and Isaiah uses flowing water to picture God pouring out His Holy Spirit. May God pour out His Spirit on His children as we fight the storm tossed waves that are so prevalent in this world.
