In Stillness and Solitude…

There are days when I can be in the worst mood, but if I step into my studio and begin to paint, something inside me just lifts. Painting has a way of quieting my heart.

I think what truly restores my spirit, though, is what I most often paint …scenes from nature: birds…animals…flowers…God’s creations. As I study each subject and try to capture its essence, I find myself amazed by the intricate beauty God has placed everywhere around us. In those moments, it almost feels like an act of worship on my part. Moments just between me and the Lord God.

And honestly, it really isn’t about the finished painting for me… it’s the process. Granted…I want the painting to look great…but the most important thing is the process…Taking the time to truly “see” His handiwork… to dwell on His creation, rather than man’s. And somewhere between the brushstrokes and the stillness, I am drawn closer to the Lord. Just like this photo of this little rabbit. I snapped this recently right from my kitchen window. It was a beautiful scene. The wind was blowing quite a bit and this little rabbit was hunkered down beside my big hickory tree…with snow all around. What a photo for a painting!

I hope all of this makes sense… but if you’ve ever experienced the peace that comes from creating something while reflecting on Him, you probably understand exactly what I mean. (By the way, I DO hope to paint the little rabbit!)