"Walking On Promises in Dark Places"
“Walking On Promises In Dark Places”
Original mixed media and oil on canvas by Bek Harris
There's a certain comfort in routine. We paint within the lines we know, create within the styles we've mastered, and find security in predictable outcomes.
But as artists, we also crave growth, a push outside our comfort zones that can lead to unexpected discoveries.
"Walking on Promises in Dark Places" is a testament to that very push and pull, a journey that began with frustration and blossomed into a piece overflowing with hope.
Lost In The Woods
The initial concept for this painting was vastly different. Envisioned as part of my "Celestial Guardians" series, the underpainting was supposed to cradle another majestic animal constellation. Yet, the more I looked, the more all I saw were trees. Dense, dark, and tangled, they whispered of a forest. I’ve painted some trees that hint of a forest as a background, even done a single tree as a subject and/or focal point in a painting. But I’ve never painted a forest as the painting.
Resistance bloomed.
This wasn't the direction I'd planned, but forcing an animal into the scene felt wrong. Somehow, it was inauthentic and forced. It mirrored the struggles we all face - clinging to expectations when a different path beckons.
“The more I looked, the more all I saw were trees.”
“Walking On Promises in Dark Places”
Original art by BekHarris
Lost in the Wilderness
Perhaps that's the magic of art - its ability to hold a mirror to our lives. Here I was, grappling with the painting, just as we often grapple with life's uncertainties. We stand at the precipice of the unknown, the path ahead shrouded in darkness.
Fear creeps in, the chilling whisper of "What if?" echoing in the vast emptiness.
It's during these moments that surrendering to the unknown becomes paramount. Just as the Israelites wandered the wilderness, guided only by a pillar of fire, we too must trust in God's promises, a guiding light leading us through the murky unknown.
Letting go of my preconceived notions for the painting was a powerful act of surrender. It mirrored the need to surrender in life, to trust the process even when it doesn't match our expectations. This wasn't a failure; it was a necessary pivot, a course correction that revealed the painting's true essence.
Pain Leads to Healing; Acceptance Leads to Breakthrough
I’m not going to lie… accepting that this was going to pivot and be something completely different was painful - especially considering what it wanted to be. I didn’t want to paint a forest. I didn’t want to paint a windy, dark path.
My own situation is in flux at the moment - several things are up in the air. My path wasn’t clear and this painting was hitting way to close to home. And I still couldn’t see the forest for the trees. I was wrapped up in the dark and negativity.
How could I paint hope in dark places when I was stressed out, anxious and not feeling hopeful about my own situation?
BUT… the moment I embraced the forest, the path emerged. Not a path of dirt or stone, but a vibrant ribbon of light, a glowing pathway winding through the darkness. It was a powerful symbol - a promise etched in light, a reminder of God's faithfulness. It whispered, "You are not alone. The path may be shrouded, but the way is clear."
And isn't that just the way life is?
We have to feel the pain in order to experience healing. And we have to accept the situation before we can have a breakthrough. It's only when we are willing to be honest and accept things for what they are that we gain any power over changing it... because it isn't usually the situation that changes. It's us that changes - our attitudes, motivations, responses.
A Divine Light: Inspiration in the Details
This piece is rich with symbolism:
The Dark Forest: The darkness represents the uncertainties and trials we all face in life. It's the unknown territory that can feel overwhelming, but it's also a place where faith and trust are tested and strengthened. Family issues, job issues, health issues… we’re all facing something
The Glowing Pathway: The path may twist and turn, but it does so to avoid obstacles and snares- to lead us in the safest way possible.
The Lush Greenery and Bright Flowers: The vibrant forest, despite its initial resistance, became a symbol of God's sustaining power. Even in the midst of darkness, with faith as our guide, we can find beauty, growth, and hope. The hint of flowers blooming amidst the trees represent the perseverance of faith, the promise of new beginnings and beauty in unexpected places.
The Rainbow: the original promise! A luminous beacon, a representation of God's unwavering presence in our lives.
“The moment I embraced the forest, the path emerged. Not a path of dirt or stone, but a vibrant ribbon of light, a glowing pathway winding through the darkness.”
“Walking On Promises in Dark Places”
Original art by Bek Harris
The overall feel of the piece is one of hope. The glowing light illuminates the understory, pushing back the darkness and symbolizing the way faith brightens our path and lifts our spirits.
Beyond the Canvas: A Personal Reflection
Creating "Promises in Dark Places" was a deeply personal experience. It forced me to confront my own resistance to the unexpected, a struggle that resonates with so many of us. But ultimately, it was a journey of surrender and acceptance. It reminded me that the greatest creative growth often lies outside our comfort zones, waiting to be discovered.
Owning Your Path: A Reflection for Collectors
"Promises in Dark Places" is an invitation to embrace the unknown, even the dark and scary places. It's a reminder that with faith as our guide, we can navigate any challenge. As you look at this piece, I hope you'll contemplate your own path. Where are you on your journey? Do you see the guiding light of God's promises? Perhaps this painting will serve as a beacon, a reminder that even in the darkest of forests, a path of hope always awaits.
What does this piece make you feel? Let me know in the comments!
This piece is available for purchase. If you feel a connection to its message and would like to bring its vibrant energy and spiritual inspiration into your home, please don't hesitate to contact me. And if you have a vision of your own that you would like brought to life, let me know. I am available for commissions.
