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BIBLICAL SERIES

Hover over each to view the artists statement. 
 
I view pots as very human like in form and purpose. I start each sculpture with utilitarian clay vessels, and then carve the forms to create a representation of people from the Bible. Rough texture and holes represent sin and corruption, while waves and water denote forgiveness and salvation. Using representational portraits allows for a broader teaching and story to be told surrounding each work of art. By depicting people the viewer gets a sense of the importance of morals and decision making, as well as how faith can set a person free from burdens. Many people are startled when they learn their favorite pieces are the ones that closely resemble their own faith experiences.

The series starts in the gospel writings and will continue on through the New Testament. Each one has been the result of character studies and biblical research. I strive to be fully prepared to answer questions as they arise in conversation with the viewer.
Each Piece below has a title but I have left them unmarked. My desire is that you would experience each in your own way. Please reach out to me if you have questions about a piece, or are interested in the meaning behind one.
Criminal on Cross The criminal mocked Jesus for not using his power to save himself. It was almost a halfhearted prayer, but one that was laced with disbelief. This is contrasted by the other criminal that repents and sees Jesus for his innocence. How many of us have played the game with God to dare him to act on our prayers? This is a clear example that humility and faith are the key characteristics that Christ looks for in his servants. 39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” – Luke 23:39
Mary Magdalene A controversial character whose whole story is not known for certain. What we do know is that she was fully faithful to Christ even after his crucifixion. Peel away the controversy and stories from the past, and what we see is a defining character in scripture that encourages us to hold to our faith regardless of the turmoil we are in. Look for the good inside Mary rather than looking for sin and stains. “Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ‘I have seen the Lord!’ And she told them that he had said these things to her” - John 20:18
The Pharisee It is always easier to cast judgment on others that ourselves. The Pharisees may have appeared to follow God in the way they acted, dressed, and spoke; however, Christ showed us what he was able to hear while the pray. When they put their needs and piousness before others they show their true sinfulness inside. Christ also showed us in the parable of the tax collector and the Pharisee that we should not think of ourselves any higher than another person. 14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” – Luke 18:14
Pilate The prefect and judge of Judea. He was known in the gospels for convicting Jesus of treason and throwing him before the Jews who crucified him. He was a man who tried to free himself of guilt and responsibility by playing both sides. He saw that Christ had done nothing wrong, but he turned the decision to the Jewish leaders. By being indecisive, Pilate modeled an ineffective leader who went against what he may have known to be the right thing. Though he never struck a blow or drove a nail, Pilate is still seen as responsible for the crucifixion of Christ. ” So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves." - Matthew 27:19
Redeemed Criminal on Cross The criminal mocked Jesus for not using his power to save himself. It was a halfhearted prayer, a prayer that was laced with disbelief. This is contrasted by the other criminal that repents and sees Jesus for his innocence. Even though the criminal was in a decrepit state at the last hour, Jesus still had the ability to heal this criminal’s soul. These contrasting individuals are a clear example to show why “humility and faith” are the key characteristics that Christ looks for in his servants. 39 One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and 40 But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? 41 We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.”42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.”43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:39-43
John the Baptist John was controversial because he was baptizing and claiming to wash away people’s sins before Jesus ever arrived on scene. When questioned how he was qualified to do this, his response shows us that Christ was already preparing to pay their debt. John sacrificed his entire life to follow the will of God. So he was baptized in the Spirit by simply proclaiming that Christ was the “Lamb of God”, and John showed what it meant to be pour yourself out for others. 26 “I baptize with water,” John replied, “but among you stands one you do not know. 27 He is the one who comes after me, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” – John 1:26-27
Judas A powerful example of “what not to do” in the bible. How could he exchange his entire faith and salvation for wealth? Even worse how could he exchange another person’s life for wealth? Judas was positioned as one of Christ’s disciples. He had all the makings of a noble servant for God. Though he was blessed by the spirit and followed Christ daily, Judas somehow let his guard down enough to let sin and corruption tempt him. If we learn anything from the Pharisee we should know not to judge too quickly because there may come a time where we unknowingly turn our backs on others for our personal gain. We may have all the potential to be great followers of Christ, but it is up to us to make the correct decisions. Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the Twelve? And yet one of you is a devil.” He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the Twelve, was going to betray him. – John 6:70 – 71
Christ the Living Water The Samaritan woman was only looking for water, but she was surprised to find a man who broke down all the cultural barriers and knew more about her than anyone else. Christ knows that no amount of water drawn from the well will satisfy her thirst for life. He desires for her to accept him so he can quince her thirst for ever. At the last supper Christ pours himself out as a forgiveness of sins for those who follow him. It is often the emptiness inside us that needs to be filled with Christ rather than the objects we desire. 13 Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:13, 14
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