My work is rooted in faith and shaped by a long practice of making. After more than twenty years as an artist and creative business owner, I experienced a return to my faith that changed not only what I create, but why I create. Art became less about output and more about obedience, stewardship, and trust.

Living and working on the Texas Gulf Coast deeply influences my work. I’m drawn to movement, light, and color, which often appear as vibrant sea life, fluid forms, and layered surfaces. Alongside these joyful, expressive pieces, I also create symbolic works that incorporate Scripture and reflection. Both approaches exist together in my practice, grounded in the belief that faith can be both reverent and full of life.

I work in layers and allow evidence of the hand to remain. Texture, imperfection, and process are intentional choices that reflect the way faith is lived out daily. Not polished, but honest. Not rushed, but attentive. I believe creativity is a gift from God, and my work is a response to that gift.

Through my creative business, Salt & Light, art extends beyond the studio and into everyday life. Paintings, journals, and functional pieces are made to be used, returned to, and lived with. My hope is that my work offers a steady sense of light, inviting reflection, encouragement, and presence in ordinary moments.

This work is inspired by Matthew 14:31, when Peter begins to sink and “immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him.” In this painting, only Jesus’s hand is shown, plunging through the water. The choice to focus solely on His hand is intentional. The moment is not about Peter’s failure, but about Christ’s nearness.

The hand breaks through swirling water filled with motion and light, responding to need without hesitation. Scripture tells us that Jesus reached out immediately. There was no pause, no distance, no requirement for Peter to regain strength or composure. The rescue happened the moment Peter cried out. That immediacy is central to this piece.

The water is unsettled and layered, reflecting fear, chaos, and the feeling of being overwhelmed. Yet the hand carries warmth and light, entering the darkness from above. Hope does not wait for calm. It interrupts the storm. By removing Peter from the composition, the viewer is invited to step into his place, to recognize that this reaching hand is meant for them.

This passage speaks to faith at its most honest. Not confident or polished, but desperate and real. “Lord, save me.” The painting reflects the truth that Jesus is not far off, waiting for perfection. He is near, and He responds when we ask.

This work serves as a reminder that when strength is gone and the water feels too deep, faith is not about standing firm. It is about reaching. And Christ is already reaching back.

$150, email KacieKretch@gmail.com

I create original paintings, fine art prints, and hand-painted journals, as well as jewelry, home décor, and candles featuring my artwork and designs. My work includes both colorful coastal and sea life art and Scripture-inspired pieces.

I am also an author and offer a published devotional that combines faith, reflection, and original artwork. My devotional and journals are designed to be used regularly and incorporated into everyday life.

Artwork, books, and products are available for purchase through my business, Salt & Light, including in person at my shop and through online sales. I also accept a limited number of commissioned and custom pieces based on availability.