Wherever we look we have a constant echoing of God’s sovereign majesty!

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the sky displays his handiwork.” Ps 19

Originality is always challenging for mortals and I have lost a lot of hair through painting, which I often describe as the most frustrating process known to man :-)

It requires looking and seeing - and often we go about looking, yet not having seen anything! Completely missing the sheer beauty of the remnants of God’s creation. Reflecting on this can be a very encouraging antidote for minds dismayed and wasted on the demands made by the electronic media.

What I find especially stimulating, is the way painting requires intense observation and appreciation for the elements which come together in a composition pleasing to the eye and the way complementary relationships take place in pursuit of union. We are blessed in these Blue Ridge Mountains (where I live) with much natural beauty which sing praises for its Maker and that acute awareness is like healing balm to an otherwise weary soul. Considering the human trichotomy, we are overly obsessed with physical wellness, invariably neglecting the condition of the spirit or the soul – much more valuable components.

We can indeed embrace our limitations and accept adversity, which may challenge us severely. But, when we accept the reality of our disabilities, we can discover a greater attentiveness to those things which we have often taken for granted. In this new pace I live, following a stroke, with constant reminders of slowness and weakness, big paintings give way to miniatures, heavy glass covered watercolours become oils on canvas because they are easier to handle. Attention to detail come into focus, which may have been ignored before. Sensitivity acquired towards colour and texture, the way the complements operate, open new territory for exploration on many levels. This keeps the mind active and prevents despondency, especially when pursued with a thankful heart to the Giver of life.

Drawing from the well of many explorations in the area we live, the beautiful Wilson Creek in Grayson Highlands, VA, is an example of how opportunity springs to trace the delicious bubbling waters as they tumble down mossy boulders can be so inspiring. While painting these compelling subjects, mindful of the richness of colour and illumination, regenerating words of Jesus pierce the mind such as; “whoever believes in Me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them”- John 7:38

I’m forever grateful for a brand-new chapter, more than a therapy, where I can paint with an awareness of “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” Colossians 3:23 :)

George Kosinski 2/13/17