This is an oil painting that I created during my thesis studies at the Rochester Institute of Technology. My thesis was entitled Kataklysmos and represents my devotional studies of the book of Revelation. Most of my artwork (arguably all) is strongly tied to my faith, sometimes even without my realizing it.
This work fits into the theme in several ways. Most obviously, perhaps, is the derivation from Biblical themes; the piece is based largely on Revelation 4, in which the suffering of the saints and martyrs takes center stage. The animals in the pieces represent Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (the four evangelists of the gospels).
Specifically, the piece relates to Ephesians 6:10-20 in how I chose to depict the scenes in Revelation. I chose to reflect the hope and imminent relief through the allusion of reflected light within the piece, guiding the viewer around the painting until they are drawn to the hopeful eye, at the apex of the lion’s wing. The eye—particularly a clear, blue eye—becomes symbolic of Christ, faithfully watching and loving His children, even in our brokenness, death and destruction.
This shows the end of the struggle against the rulers, authorities, and powers of the world and heavenly realms (v 12), which can only be attained through faith in (and action therewith) God.
Firstly, I need to glorify God for giving me the talent to create art, and even more so for the opportunities afforded by my ability to attend RIT. I love that He has gifted me with a skill that I thoroughly enjoy, although I think that whenever we use His gifts with the right heart, we will enjoy whatever we do for Him.
I also need to definitely give credit to my thesis committee at RIT: Alan Singer, Glen Hintz, and especially my chief advisor and faith/art mentor, Luvon Sheppard, who introduced me to so many artists, books, and ideas of including faith in art.
I also need to give credit to my parents and family who have always supported me in my artistic endeavors.
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