"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."
-Matthew 5:9
Finding ways that will counter violence and anger by purposely treating such matters with tranquility and love is certainly a mark of character. If we bring a peaceful approach and mindset when facing challenges or arguments, we become "peacemakers," for we are intentionally bringing forth an attitude contrary to the situation. In sowing peace, we are deemed children of God- not necessarily in the literal sense of becoming a child, but in being called one of God's own- for we are resembling His loving nature.
This painting attempts to portray a literal and lighthearted illustration of this Beatitude: two young children are in their own dreamy, peaceful world effortlessly crafting paper doves, which symbolize peace. By having created the birds, it is the children who bring these doves to life (as indicated by their vibrant colors), which now freely fly around them. Additionally, some of the birds are painted while others are origami- so providing a tangible reality or dimension to the fruits of sowing peace. Further, only the peacemakers' bodies are distinctly illustrated, their clothes exempt, which underscores the importance of their character rather than the material aspects. In this way, their clothes fade into the surrounding, allowing their being- their spirit of peace- to shine forth. The children's faces are also concealed, which not only furthers this idea, but also allows viewers to imagine themselves as the peacemakers.
mixed media on canvas (oil & handmade paper birds)
24 x 36 in
2019
$675