The Hinge: Lion of Judah

The bottom-right cornerstone of "The Hinge" is a lion.  There are many references to lions in the Bible, but it is included in this painting specifically because it is an ancient symbol associated with the Israelite tribe of Judah & one of the names of Christ (This symbol is one of my creations...influenced by medieval depictions of lions in heraldry).  

In Genesis 49:9 you can see the earliest reference of a lion in association with the tribe of Judah.

In Matthew 1:3-16 you can see the genealogy of Christ and his association with the tribe of Judah.

In Hebrews 7:14, the author clarifies this connection.

In Revelation 5:5 the name "Lion of Judah" is used in reference to Christ.

Jerusalem's Coat of Arms

The Hinge

For years I've wanted to create a painting that reflects my Christian faith, but it has been difficult to come up with an idea that I haven't seen a million times in classic art (specific scenes fr

om the Bible) AND muster up enough confidence to produce something reverent and not trite (sorry, modern Christian art). I wanted to approach the canvas as a means of worship, like Makoto Fujimura...no 'Kinkade' to be found in his work.

Finally, inspiration happened when I was asked to show several pieces at Mississippi College this fall. The following piece ("THE HINGE") is my single visual interpretation of the Gospels. Look for symbolism related to: Parables, Miracles, Names of Christ, Life of Christ, and the Triune God. 

Over the next few days, I'll post images of the panels individually and discuss the verses and symbolism therein.

Penelope, Destroyer of Worlds

I'm not a 'cat person', but Penelope is the most dog-like cat that I know.  A great studio companion who enjoys sleeping right behind me when I paint at the easel.

First Oil

Rummaging through the dark recesses of my studio, I stumbled upon this today:

My first Oil painting.

I remember very clearly that it was on New Years Day, 2004, when I finally decided to put away the Acrylics and try something new.  I've never looked back.  The smell, the tactile experience, and the long drying time of Oils made me feel like a serious painter for the first time.  It pulled me deeper into the craft and gave me a new lease on art.  At the time I was heavily influenced by Max Beckmann and his self-portrait as a medic in WWI...you can see the influence:

Now, looking back at this portrait, I would change a lot of things (like my one bug-eye and the weird blue shadow on my face), but nostalgia wins.  The excitement is still there and I'll always enjoy looking back at this moment in art self-discovery.

Liquidity, Profundity, Ferocity

I finally got around to completing the 'series' which began with my green eagle drawing "Liquidity". These drawings are partner pieces to my "Crisis" paintings. Instead of explaining it, I'd rather you develop your own conclusions about the symbolism. Hint: They are in order...so there is a progression.