TRUTH | Baroque

Oil on canvas  |  2014  |  40x60"

"Art is only illusions for the illiterate masses who would otherwise be wretched."  -Caravaggio

This is the very first portrait of the series...it was never intended to be a public portrait. I knew this was most likely not what Jesus looked like, but I was drawn to this image and that allowed me to start building my relationship (plus, no one knows what He actually looks like). The whole idea for this image was to serve as a placeholder. I wanted to get past the appearance of Christ and dig into his persona so I could see him and relate to Him as a human being. Relating to Jesus as a human was the itch my mind & soul had and that single thought this was a very important key in my spiritual growth.

Oddly enough, as soon as I started to show this image to others, I knew it was no longer just a personal piece. People were jumping at it left and right and felt free to talk about faith, God and all! So here it is for everyone to behold. I simply want to interrupt the constant stream of life, news and social media and insert His face, His Light and His presence into the world. My hope is to let Jesus linger in your subconscious minds and hearts instead of falling into what's already marketed at you.

IN THE MAKING...

Christ's pose, lighting and colors were initially inspired by Caravaggio’s work, especially the luscious red he used throughout his work. After studying an old-age meticulous style that blends Flemish and Italian techniques (technique mixt), I felt this style and image was the perfect way to depict Him for my enjoyment. The colors are wonderfully layered creating exquisite depth and incomparable glow. His warmth as a divine man is radiating. The surface feels delicate and strong at the same time, which he both possessed. Using technique mixte at this size required a lot of patience and time which felt like I was putting in prayer time with God. Last but not least, the effects of the candle's white light pours onto his human body, merging Him with his miracle maker being. All of that leaves us with one beautiful hello.

  

 

ART HISTORY NOTE: This painting movement started in the 1600's in Italy and spread throughout Europe and the world. The Catholic church wanted its religious paintings to become more emotional and dramatic, otherwise known as: religious propaganda. This type of style spread to where much of the art of the time became very dramatic, rich colors, deep darks/bright light, full of life and movement, and emotional.