"Crown of Thorns 1," 15 x 22 original watercolor, matted and custom framed.
This was the very first in the Desert Metaphors series, the one that initially spoke to my heart. Here you see a dead, white branch of sharp, prickly thorns contrasted against a background of colorful, living plants and rich, fertile soil. A metaphor for the life and truth surrounding and overpowering this worthless instrument of torture and ridicule. Implicit is a nod to the Parable of the Sower, and what happens when seeds of truth are planted in softened, welcoming hearts. This painting was begun years ago as an advanced watercolor demonstration on broken color (colors mixed optically by the viewer when their components are placed nearby.) I used a combination of spraying/spattering, masking, and direct painting. The colors are vibrant, even in the deepest darks--much like our faith that can remain vibrant even in the darkest shadows of our lives, and the fact that joy can prevail regardless of our circumstances.
AFFIRMATION: I WILL SOFTEN MY HEART.
This piece is float-mounted on cream archival mat board (so you can see the deckle edge of the watercolor paper) and custom framed. Save $140.