This painting was based on a photograph. It is not unusual for clients to give me a photo of a place that is special to them and ask me to paint it. My caveat is always that I am not a realist painter. I am an impressionist. My job is to capture the essence of the place/photo with enough realism that the viewer knows where they are.
As I begin such a painting, I refer to the photograph frequently so that the main colors and lines are in place. However in each painting I paint, I have to tune in to what Holy Spirit is doing on the canvas and allow the painting to reveal the details.
As a sculptor, Michelangelo knew this. He is quoted as saying,
“Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.”
And
“I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.”
The moment I put aside the reference photo and listen to the painting requires faith. I must trust myself that I am in tune with my creation and move forward accordingly.
It takes faith to live a life dedicated to the so much more that the Lord has for you. Trust the still small voice within you that shows you the next right step to take. Jesus assures us in John 15, that He is not only with you, He is in you.
“I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
If you—as a branch of the vine—abide in God and He abides in you, you can trust that He is directing your thoughts and your next right step.
The next right step will keep you on the fruit bearing path that God has set before you.
I really like the reference to Michelangelo -“setting free” what was already there!
The reality that God has Already finished everything and we just havta catch up to it -is what this makes me think of!!
Everything that we need is Already within us!
It just needs to be set free to Soar!!
I love your take on Michelangelo’s quote. We are kindred spirits Sister! ❤️❤️❤️
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