Sara grew up here in Midland and after earning her Bachelors of Fine Arts from the University of North Texas, returned to Midland to pursue a career as an artist. Sara's passion is painting and drawing faces and portraits. Sara draws inspiration from her faith and Christian symbols and themes. In college Sara started researching the artistic heritage of Christianity and now incorporates her findings into her work through the mixing of images.
You may have seen some of Sara's work around town, specifically the Museum of the Southwest's Children Museum where she was the artist of residence in 2006, and on display currently at the Community National Bank located at 401 W. Texas in Midland. Sara will also be the distinguished artist this year at Celebration of the Arts in Midland.
Below you will find examples of Sara's work and the meaning behind the paintings in her words.
You may have seen some of Sara's work around town, specifically the Museum of the Southwest's Children Museum where she was the artist of residence in 2006, and on display currently at the Community National Bank located at 401 W. Texas in Midland. Sara will also be the distinguished artist this year at Celebration of the Arts in Midland.
Below you will find examples of Sara's work and the meaning behind the paintings in her words.
"Communicate"
In this piece, the fish are symbols of Christ. The woman is inspired by a portrait done by Leonardo da Vinci. She is the "every-person" in this painting. She has a wireless phone in her ear representing how the world is always whispering in our head. One of the fish seems to be coming out of her mouth to show that despite the clamor in our heads, we must remember to speak only what is edifying to those around us.
"Fruit of Goodness"
This piece is part of the “Fruit of the Spirit” series. Goodness holds a bowl overflowing with fruit symbolizing the providential goodness of God. The lilies represent purity and holiness. Butterflies are symbols of Christ and the resurrection, and the cherries mean sweetness of character from good works. The golden castle in the sky references the scripture: “Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.” (Psalm 23:6) The greyhound (dog) at her side is a symbol of faithfulness reflects the scripture that says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness”(2 Peter 1:5).
"Blue Bird"
This is part of a series of paintings dealing with our minds and seeking to have the Mind of Christ.
In this piece, the woman's mind is inhabited by a blue jay and a pomegranate. Birds are used in parables several times to represent God's great love for us. The smallest birds are taken care of, so how much more will we be cared for. The pomegranate is a symbol of compassion as well as a symbol of the Body of Christ because it is one fruit full of many seeds. Focusing on God's love and provision for us will allow us to be able to love those that God puts in our lives as well as coming into the purpose God has for us in the Body of Christ. In the distance are three trees referencing Golgotha and Christ's sacrifice as well as the Trinity.
"Wrath"
Translation: “Wrath is not a virtue.” This driver’s rage has combusted him into flames.
"Unraveled"
This piece inspired by the scripture: "Do not be misled: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" (1 Corinthians 15:33) I have found this scripture to be so true! The people that surround you have a great influence on your life. If those people are toxic and negative, they will poison you as well.
The woman represents a saint in the Kingdom of God. The snake is a symbol of the devil and temptation. He hovers at her shoulder and where he stares at her, she is 'unraveling.' However, there is hope. The columbine flower floating around is a symbol for the Holy Spirit, wisdom, piety and strength.
