ABOUT CORAL

The majority of my work is inspired by the Kingdom of Heaven, or by the “kingdoms” of plantae and animalia. 

 

AS TO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN:

"Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of a reminder." 2 Peter 1:12-13 (ESV)

 

I feel most prompted to create work that will stir up those around me to meditate on what God has spoken through His word. I feel urged to remind my brothers and sisters of the things they already know: the truth already established in them by the word of God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. When I create work founded on bible verses I want to create images that bring to remembrance the biblical truths that are sometimes pushed out of the forefront of our minds by our daily task and trials.

 

When I embroider moths on rust colored material I want people to be reminded to store up their treasures in heaven where moth and rust can’t destroy. I want to make the arrangement as beautiful as possible to symbolize that the treasures of earth can be attractive, which is why we end up so distracted by them. I want people to hang up that piece and remember the counsel of the Son of God when He clearly told us where our priorities should lie: with God, in heaven, seeking eternity and not loving the world which is passing away.

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I want my artwork to be like the tassels of the old testament, (Numbers 15:37-41) hung on the wall instead of sewn to the corner of a garment. I like the idea of creating a physical object to serve as a memorial to the goodness and faithfulness of God. When people look at my work I want them to remember the commandments of God. I want them to remember to prioritize God’s ways over their own desires. I want them to remember all that God has done to deliver them from death and captivity.

 

AS TO THE “KINGDOMS” OF PLANTAE, ANIMALIA, AND OCCASIONALLY FUNGI:

I delight in the artwork of God. The things He has created are a constant source of wonder to me. To draw or paint them is an act of gratitude and worship. It brings to my awareness the intricacy of what He’s done. When I view these “kingdoms” from the right mindset it brings me into humility and intimacy with Him. I feel safe being reminded of how far above me He is. How different. How much more powerful. I feel joy and gratitude that He has surrounded us with so much beauty. I feel awe, and sorrow, that this much beauty is not even the fulness of what He intend, because all creation groans and suffers under the weight of our sin, waiting for the children on God to be revealed. Drawing and painting these “kingdoms” is really me singing praise to Him. It’s me telling of His wondrous works, and making known His deeds among the people.