Genesis

I began by reading the entire book of Genesis and writing down key words, events, and images that could be represented visually. From those notes, I created simple sketches, followed by a preliminary drawing on an 8" x 10" sheet of paper. I then transferred the composition to the final 18" x 24" surface and began the coloring process, building the image through many layers and hours of work.
The painting brings together the major movements of Genesis. The stormy sky represents creation. Adam, Eve, and the serpent portray the Fall. The ark, the distant rain, the raven, and the Tower of Babel recall the Flood and humanity’s scattering.
A large crevice separates these early events from the stories of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. Their lives are represented through the altar offering, the bowl of stew, the hunting equipment, and the coat.
The serpent has small legs by deliberate artistic choice. I imagined the creature as something distinct from the snake as we know it today. This detail also reflects my belief in the freedom and power of God as Creator.
Throughout later paintings, I continued using stormy skies to symbolize creation, new beginnings, and a return to the beginning of the biblical story.