West to the Stream – mixed media painting

$325.00

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This 12 x 12 inch framed mixed media painting on basswood panel features a landscape image and is part of the 2021 Good Way Collection. West to the Stream presents a walking path into the woods along a gentle stream at dusk. A barren foreground executed in black ink and charcoal on the right side of the piece overlooks the sun setting near a grove of autumn trees reflected in a quiet stream at left. Found perched atop a large rock in the lower right corner is a black raven figure. The charcoal and painted surface of the piece has been coated with both tinted varnish and floor grade polyurethane — this is a non-archival quality finish was specifically chosen so the piece might darken as it ages. The varnish application has also resulted in areas were the paint has seized leaving a crackled effect.

This painting is beautifully mounted in a 2 inch deep floating frame ready for hanging. The piece is signed by the artist and arrives with a certificate of authenticity, printed artist statement and wall hanging hardware.

1 in stock

ARTIST STATEMENT

This original 12in x 12in mixed media painting from the Good Way collection features a barren foreground executed in black ink and charcoal leading into a full color background. A landscape infused with spiritual meaning, the effect is one of moving from desolation and despair into hope and renewal.

Each of four paintings in the 2021 The Good Way series bears a black raven figure. Rising out of the ancient story of the prophet Elijah being fed by ravens in the desert, a raven holds personal symbolism for me. Ravens represent Divine provision in our most vulnerable times. In this series, the raven serves as a sign of assurance when considering the path ahead. Yet, the viewer’s reaction to the raven may have been one of hesitation — ravens are culturally understood as a bad omen or an indicator of evil’s presence.

Navigating one’s life path can been challenging. The mistake made all too often is believing the good way equals the easy way or the pain-free way. We want the green pastures and still waters with out the shadow of the valley of death. As we age and gain life experience we may reach the understanding that life very much includes journeying with and through doubt, pain, or sorrow. Many of us can relate to journeying at times along dark and difficult paths. It is Christ who indeed tells us…

Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart… I have overcome the world. — John 16:33

Accepting this reality and allowing ourselves to grieve, name our fears, losses and deepest sorrows IS the good way to finding places of true beauty and rest. It is faith that keeps many of us moving forward in hope. Divine hope is represented in each of the Good Way Collection pieces with some intentionally placed vibrant pink — a color I often reach for to lift my spirits and remind me of goodness and love.

The Good Way series gets its title from a passage of Scripture…

Stand at the crossroad and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. — Jeremiah 6:16

Michelle-signature

 

Additional information

Weight 35 oz
Dimensions 13.5 × 13.5 × 2 in

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