Coming Back Down

Coming Back Down

Well, maybe I am experiencing a bit of culture shock. I think that is what many of the artists who attended the excellent workshop and retreat with Makoto Fujimura would say along with me. Most of us who were there considered this once-in-a-lifetime experience to be a mountain top experience.

For me, I think one of the toughest things is getting back to the internet. My Beloved Husband and I made an eight-day trip of the event, meandering along the drive from Indiana to Cape Cod and back again, and it was so restful to not be constantly "in touch".

It is challenging to return home and get back to my regular studio practice - particularly the posting and sharing online part! But I have something to be thankful for here. I am participating again in Leslie Saeta's 30 paintings in 30 days challenge, which will force me into the studio and back to my blog! I do love these challenges, and I always benefit greatly from them. Hurray for day 1! 


11" x 14"
Painted with the finest quality heavy-body acrylic paint on acid-free, heavy weight Fabriano watercolor paper
Includes natural mica flakes and gold leaf
Ready to frame

Click here to purchase from my website. 

At the retreat, a recurring theme both in art and in conversation was that of the transfiguration of Jesus. Interestingly, one of the attendees associated our return home to our studios, churches, and families with the disciples' coming down from the mountain with Jesus after He had been transfigured. We discussed together how we will return to our familiar surroundings, yet be influenced by and ready to share our inspiration from the time apart. 

I love how this painting, begun before I left, expresses the concept of coming down the mountain, so to speak. There are textures and elements that are tough to capture in the photo, but they feel just right for this work. 

I also love that, as the disciples were terrified on the mountain, Jesus came, touched them, and said "do not be afraid". Perfect words for me as I move ahead from here! 

Coram Deo. 

Matthew 17:2-8 (Amplified Bible) And His appearance changed dramatically in their presence; and His face shone [with heavenly glory, clear and bright] like the sun, and His clothing became as white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus. Then Peter began to speak and said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good and delightful and auspicious that we are here; if You wish, I will put up three [sacred] tents here—one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased and delighted! Listen to Him!” When the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were terrified. But Jesus came and touched them and said, “Get up, and do not be afraid.” And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus Himself alone.