The Gardener Print Poster Paper (Semi-Gloss)

I was prompted to cocreate a piece that fully embraced my identity as an artist for God—one that would live in my studio simply to inspire me each day. This painting took time. I wrestled with the urge to make it perfect or sellable, and instead had to surrender the outcome. After the first prompt, I immediately had a vision—and of course, it was heading toward a very finished painting. So I stopped. Months later, while praying over my son, my daughter-in-law, and their sweet daughter (still in utero), I was finally able to return and paint. The prompt brought to mind one of my favorite flowers: the peony. Normally, I would photograph, sketch, and plan every detail—but I felt God say, “Just grab the gesso and start.” So I drew the entire piece with a small tube of gesso, letting the process be led rather than controlled. Each bloom began to take on deeper meaning. They could represent individual artists—each unique, beautiful, and strong—yet together forming an army. Or perhaps each peony represents a different painting from my own hands, being lovingly nurtured by Jesus, the Gardener. There are layers of meaning here, and I continue to discover more each time I look. When I later looked up the symbolism of peonies, I was surprised and deeply moved to learn they are often associated with the Love of God and even healing. That confirmed what has been stirring in my heart for some time: a calling to cocreate with God and heal. My prayer is that this piece draws you closer to God—and closer to your own healing journey.