Artist bio

Darnell Mathias-Harewood was born and raised in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. He is currently a student at Cipriani College of Labour and Co-operative Studies (CCLCS) pursuing a degree in Project Management. In 2012, Darnell was grateful to place first in his first ever art competition hosted by the University of the West Indies Family Development and Children’s Research Centre (UWI/FDCRC), in collaboration with the World Forum on Early Care and Education and the Clinton Global Initiative. It was a National Poster and Art competion based on the theme “Reconnecting the World’s Children to Nature.” Ever since Darnell was a child, he loved using his hands and art emerged from this. Drawing was a hobby of his and in extension painting. Darnell has always found it difficult using words to describe his thoughts, emotions and the way he perceive life; being creative is the best way in which he can express himself, along with being completely silent and at peace. Creating art has a way of calming him and usually he tend to create things that are even shocking to himself, which provides him with contentment. Art is his passion. Art is his life.

Title

Incorruptible Love

Medium/Genre

Painting

Artist Statement

To depict the information of Ephesians 6:10-20 all at once, I decided to paint on canvas utilizing acrylic paint to create 'Incorruptible Love.' The idea emerged from the concept of light and darkness. The opening of the sky with the ray of bright light represents the light that is shined on/through us from praising God. Like the story of Job, the man is experiencing spiritual battles and he refuses to let the unpleasant circumstances break him nor turn him away from his Lord. The scenic view gives a sense of solitude and oneness with nature (grounded), where the praying man can give his undivided attention to God. Surrounding the man, there are pieces of clothing which are representations to portray the armor of God that he possesses, despite the spiritual battles he is experiencing.

The armor of God can be perceived literally or symbolically. In the literal sense, armor is known to be heavy, so the man took off some of the 'load' to plead with God for the strength to put it back on and stand firm. Symbolically, the armor of God are not objects but we do require continuous strength to keep it on and this is acquired through God. Not always we will have the strength to carry the armor of God with us. We may feel weak at times and that is okay, because God will look out for and give us the strength we need when we call on His name. The arrow on the shield and shoe symbolizes strength, as only through God and His full armor we can find the strength to overcome all spiritual warfare.

Stalking from the left side of the prominent tree is a serpent that represents the evil forces that are always around lurking for new ways to stray us from the word of God.

1 Peter 5:8 (ESV) "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."

How it fits into contest

"Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm." Ephesians 6:13 (NLT).

James 4:7 (ESV) "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

The man in the painting is experiencing many hardships in his life. He feels extremely weak and trampled upon. Though he is experiencing these spiritual battles that seem unbearable, he praises God, which in return strengthens and prepares him for whatever evil and other spiritual battles come his way. The armor of God are tools which assists him to overcome all the schemes the devil sets out. In the painting, God sheds a light on the man that acts as a shield to protect him from the serpent.

Through our dark and difficult days/times in life, praising God is the best decision we can make. We have to remember that there will always be spiritual warfare and the devil is behind it all, tempting us hoping that he succeeds, resulting in us failing. Do not fail! Remember, only through God we can find the strength to overcome all spiritual warfare.

According to Psalms 91:1‭-‬6 (NLT) [emphasis added]; Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord : He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. For He will rescue me from every trap and protect me from deadly disease. He will cover me with his feathers. He will shelter me with his wings. His faithful promises are my armor and protection. I will not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. I will not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday.

Credits

Artist/Conceptualizer - Darnell Mathias-Harewood
Critiques - Allison Mathias & Denysha Mathias-Harewood

How to Purchase this Artwork

Original work and prints are available.

Email darthwoodinn@gmail.com for more inquiries.

Other Goods & Services Available from this Artist

Workshops and classes.

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