It's ok to be a crackpot

Artist

Debbie Oliver

Artist bio

I am from southern Ontario, Canada. I have been painting for around 20 years. I am a piano teacher. I have found that I learn best through pictures, and painting helps me process the thoughts in my head. As a help to remember the amazing truths found in God's word, I challenge myself to see the picture behind the words. These paintings are often the kickstart needed to shift my eyes back to the God in control.

Visual Arts 2026 Contest

Title

It's ok to be a crackpot

Medium/Genre

Painting

Artist Statement

18" x24" acrylic on canvas
When I think of jars of clay, I think of flower pots... broken pots. The light source is coming from inside the pots, and can be seen shining through the cracks. Just like the life of Jesus in me, despite the cracks and disrepair, there is growth. The Ivy is attracted to the light and creeping towards it.

How it fits into contest

I Corinthians 4:7
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us."
So often, I do not have enough love, enough courage, enough patience. I have been disappointed too many times. I am too broken to try again, but I can let the light of God shine through the cracks in my broken life, and He can be the light in my life.