Order includes:

• high-res image file formatted for print

• high-res image file formatted for web/projection

• A PDF of the artist's statement & scripture reference for the visual

• A visio divina Bible Study Guide for you to use this image in a group study session that incorporates the ancient Benedictine spiritual practice of "divine seeing."

Credit Info:

When printing and sharing online, please always include the following credits:
Artist's name | A Sanctified Art LLC | sanctifiedart.org

FROM THE ARTIST:

When we began working on our Advent theme, we were inspired by the storied tradition of quilting. Though I am not a textile artist—and can hardly use a sewing machine—I turned to the fabric medium I enjoy: painting with ink dyes and gold resist on silk. As I read through my assigned scriptures for this series, I created a list of the images and patterns I found in my texts: water, fire, spirit, fruit trees, mountains, stars, sky. Then, I stretched my silk and began to paint, creating a series of 6 small banners.

Next, I moved into a digital space. I photographed my silk banners and then began drawing quilt patterns with my stylus pen onto my Ipad, collaging the photos of my silk paintings into the designs. As I digitally stitched together patterns and geometric shapes, I realized I was quilting, just in my own unique way.

This piece is meant to be a visual prayer, inviting you to internalize and personalize the words of blessing from Isaiah 43. And so, I invite you to take a deep breath in, then let it out, and pray with me:

“When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.” (Is. 43:2a)

Rest your gaze on the art, following all the shapes with water imagery. Notice the textures and the colors. Offer a prayer for all the ways you feel as if you are drowning or being overcome by forces beyond your control. Now pray for God’s waters to nourish you. Ask for a raft. Imagine you are floating gently down a river.

“When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.” (Is. 43:2b)

Look again at the art. With your eyes, trace all the areas you see fire imagery. Offer a prayer for all the people and places in the world experiencing devastation and destruction. Now ask God to renew all the earth. Ask for healing. Ask for protection for those who are hurting.

Lastly, inhale deeply, and release. You are precious in God’s sight. Imagine God gazing upon you, delighting in all that you are. You are a blessing. Let that truth buoy you as you breathe each new breath.

—Lisle Gwynn Garrity