"He is There": A Personal Reflection by the Artist
A Personal Reflection | Written by Jackie Flowers
As my pencil touched the digital canvas, waves of emotion washed over me, guiding each stroke and line. From this intimate dance between my thoughts and my art emerged "He is There", a testament to Christ's unwavering comfort during our darkest hours.
I remember that day, nestled in the quiet ambiance of the General Conference, when Bonnie Cordon's words echoed, “Look for Christ everywhere, I promise He is there.” Those words, so simple yet profound, resonated deeply within me, providing not just solace, but also the title for my new creation.
"He is There" wasn't just a piece of art. It was a beacon of hope. It whispered promises of Christ's eternal presence and the radiant light he brings to even the darkest corners of our souls.
At that point in my life, I was a new mother, teetering on the precipice of my dreams to start an art business. Each day was a balancing act, searching for God’s direction amid the maelstrom of my responsibilities and desires. This artwork became the lens through which I examined my journey, a visual representation of my quest for purpose in a world filled with uncertainties.
The focal point, a sturdy arch, stands tall, symbolizing strength and connection. Bathed in white, it offered a sanctuary of peace against the turbulent dark backdrop. And beneath it, the gentle posture of Christ, kneeling to comfort a girl, spoke volumes about shared sorrow and empathy.
The choice of colors was deliberate – a timeless dance of light and shadow, depicting the age-old battle between hope and despair. And though the medium was modern—an iPad and an Apple pencil—it provided a flexibility that mirrored my life, allowing creativity to flow in stolen moments during my son's naps or in the quiet hours of the night.
I won't deny that doubts clouded my mind midway. Questions about the piece's worthiness threatened to halt my progress. Yet, a persistent inner voice championed on, urging me to continue. And when the final stroke was made, I just knew — it was complete.
My past had its share of moments when darkness felt overpowering, but subtle reminders always assured me of Christ's enduring presence. And it was heartening to see that my art resonated with others too. The reactions from a Facebook group were overwhelming, and a touching message about a family's tragic loss only strengthened my belief in the power of art to communicate and comfort.
Every time I look at "He is There", my fervent wish is for viewers to see themselves in the girl, enveloped in Christ's boundless love. I often imagine the piece on a nightstand, a daily reminder of divine comfort.
The journey with this artwork didn't end with its completion. Encouraged by feedback, I introduced variations, accommodating different hair and skin tones, letting more people find a reflection of themselves in it. And the arch? That became a recurring motif in my work, its symbolism evolving but always significant.
In the end, "He is There" is more than just an artwork; it's a story, a prayer, and a testament to never feeling alone.
Click to view He is There Print.
