Last night was the first frost of 2025. It came later than usual but was a reminder that winter is coming. I guess I'm trying to mentally prepare for the cold!! The icy creek leads into the warm sunset. Of course I had to warm up something! And what better warmth than the reminder of The Son who shines His warmth and light and love on us every day.
Trying to create "glow", transparency and sunlight in a painting is sooooooo fun!. But without the darkness it is hard to see the light. So I always start with a black value pattern on a solid color background. Do you see the dark underpainting of the trees on the left and the foreground on the right? Without contrast paintings are not as effective. In the world today everything is beginning to be black or white. Everyone is being guided to make a decision whether to follow the Light or hide in the darkness.
The bridge is always a symbol of connections from here to there. We are made for connection. As Gods people we connect to Him, to nature, and to others in powerful ways that sustain our lives. As I chose this image to paint, I saw connections of pathways horizontally and vertically. Our horizontal paths are impoortant but our vertical path is life sustaining, the sun and the Son provide and protect and show the way to abundant life.
The reflections on water are fascinating. The movement of water is a challenging to capture and the colors of fall captivate the heart. Why try try to incorporate it all into one small snapshot of true Beauty? Follow the reflection of the Son and look for the hidden golden treasure of God.
Isaiah said "God's people will abide in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings and in quiet resting places." I have heard it said that peace and quiet are rare commodities these days. They are rare but they are not commodities because they cannot be bought or sold. They are gifts from the Lord and He is the only one who can bestow peace and quiet to our souls. How do I capture that in a painting? A path guiding me to the Son with golden light that reflects the Fathers throne?
