Artist bio

I once read that “the work of an artist who is a Christian will naturally reflect their faith.” As I have worked and grown as an artist, my work has ascertained this statement, regardless of my medium, subject matter, or intention. In my two years at RIT, I have progressed as an artist, writer, researcher, learner, person, and Christian. In my mind, none of these “titles” replaces another; they are all interwoven, necessary parts of who I am. I am sharing my experiences and interpretation thereof through this Thesis Exhibition, and I invite my viewers to enjoy, explore, learn, and grow with me. The bulk of the work in Kataklysmos is inspired by the Biblical book of Revelation. The idea of painting images from Revelation came to me during my daily devotions, a quiet time when I can focus on applications and implications of the Scriptures. Kataklysmos is the ancient Greek term for a deluge; a destructive flood, an upheaval that brings about significant change, an inundation which washes away all pre-existence. I chose the idea as the title of this series because I relate it dually to the apocalypse of Revelation, and the idea of baptism in the Christian faith. In the early chapters of Revelation, I was entranced by the stunning visual imagery and fantastic surrealism the words planted in my mind. Convicted, I simply HAD to create. I know that I am not the first artist to portray Revelation, nor will I be the last. In my endeavors, I have sought to remain true to my Christian interpretation (with artistic license) of the images of Revelation. I intentionally avoid a literal illustration of John’s interpretations of his visions, because that is all they were; his interpretation of something intangibly experienced. I think of my re-interpretation as a refraction of sorts; I am a mirror, reflecting the light and truth of Christ, but imperfectly, as I am imperfect. The title of each piece, as noted on the title cards, contains a figurative title, as well as a Biblical citation. I have included the citations of the passages because, on the pedestal among the paintings, there is a Bible. This Bible has been marked with tabs to take the interested viewer directly to a work-based passage. I do not intend to force views upon anyone, but I hope this Bible will become worn and loved over time, as my viewers leaf its pages, exploring the gracious love of Christ for themselves.

Title

New Jerusalem

Artist Statement

This piece is entitled, "New Jerusalem," and is based on the last two books of Revelation, during which the new heaven and earth are formed, and the beauty, love, grace, mercy, and hope of God is restored to His faithful servants. This relates to my canon of work because, as I mentioned in other submissions, all my work relates to my faith. This one specifically because in Him, I am made new. Like the New Jerusalem, His glory should be allowed to shine through me, and that is something I strive for daily.

How it fits into contest

This work fits into the contest theme because the idea is being made new in Christ. When we put on the armor of God, He makes us new conquerors in His name. When we glorify Him, and persevere in His name, we will be rewarded beyond our richest dreams.
As mentioned above, the main inspiration for this piece is the last two books of Revelation and my personal understanding of the books in a devotional manner. I chose peacocks as the main figure of focus for several reasons. Peacocks are associated with eternal life because their feathers do not decay upon their death (much like the armor of God). Like salvation’s saving of our souls, their feathers last beyond their mortal lives. Furthermore, peacocks also portray Transformation and resurrection, as they shed the feathers of their youth to grow even more resplendent ones with age. Likewise, as Christians, we shed our sinful bodies and desires to allow God to impart His grace and mercy, making us more beautiful than before.

Credits

Once again, I give God the most credit; especially for this piece. It came together completely without me. I had struggled a lot with some pieces of my thesis work, but this one just put itself on the Masonite; the only way I can explain that is God; He was, and is, working through me the most when I am down and rely more on Him.
I must also credit my thesis advisors for their support, pushing (even though it wasn't always pleasant), and encouragement.
The same goes for my family and friends, who often gave the harshest criticisms, because they cared the most.

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