The image is an oil painting on mixed media paper. I mapped out a basic drawing on the paper, and utilized a combination of brushes to achieve different results and varying details in the composition. Some of these brushes include a number 12 flat brush, which was used to first create a gradient background with tints of purple and yellow to balance and emphasize the figure in the center. Smaller flat brushes were also utilized for this painting to paint areas with pointed edges and angles such as the shield, the cross on the shield, sword and helmet of the figure. A dotting pen tool and small intricate number 00 and 0 paint brushes were used to form highlights on the armor, and blend details such as the face, God’s hands, and folds in the clothing.
Inspired by the hard times we’ve all endured together over the past year and still enduring, this painting portrays an African American woman protected by the armor of God; who I’ve placed behind her with his hands on her shoulders. I also aimed to provoke an emotional connection with the main subject through the incorporation of the woman’s eyes gazing directly at the viewer. In addition, I’ve also incorporated symbolic colors in this piece: purple which reminds us that God is king, yellow for our eternal life in heaven, white for forgiveness, and red for the blood that Jesus shed for us. The image figuratively encourages us all to use the strength, power, and armor that God provides us with to battle any evil forces of the world and spiritual forces of evil, injustice, discrimination, struggle or barrier that the enemy throws our way through the Holy Spirit.
This painting relates to Ephesians 6:10-20 and the Spiritual Battle, as the woman has put on the full armor of God, belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. This is used to fight all evil forces the enemy uses in an attempt to weaken us and destroy us, divide us, and to deter us away from God. As written in Ephesians 6:10-20, “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” In this dark world, we are met with many battles; those that are often against rulers, authorities, worldly ways and beliefs that are unjust, often formed to keep many down and draw us further away from God and ultimately divide our brothers and sisters. You never lose with God on your side. Even though you can’t physically see God, always know that his spirit is with you and He’s there to get you through any battle that seems impossible to withstand.
This is an oil painting on mixed media paper. The original image retails for $200. To purchase my work please go to: https://www.bnwart.com/shop or feel free to email me at leawayartisans@gmail.com for inquiries.
I produce commissioned artwork, painting tutorials, how to videos, and drawing. I addition, I also create a variety of mixed media and contemporary art including landscapes, fluid paintings, portraits and abstract work. Here are some of the tutorials and informational art videos that I produce on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/BNWArtsandCrafts.
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