This work is based on the “Oaks of Righteousness” in Isaiah 61, and the two Trees of Life in Revelation 22. The trees of life, with leaves for the healing of the nations are on BOTH sides of the River of Life- proceeded from God’s throne. This commission by Mark and Jill Boyce was a visualized prayer over their family, representing the location of their mountain house at Lake James, NC, the eternal night sky as seen in the photography of the new James Webb Telescope, and the expansive root system of oak trees sharing life and support as a prophetic metaphor for their journey. The night sky view from their property is incredible and helped inspire the infinite perspective of the image. The actual Linville Gorge is featured in the background which can be seen from Lake James and my family hiked together while researching the project. The roots of an Oak tree (as I learned from Mark) don’t grow down deeply, but expand up to twice the distance of the trees’ canopy, and transfer nutrients and support to one another. The two trees, lit from within by the cool and warm acorn shaped lanterns (a reference to Tolkien’s Silmarillion) are tethered together under the river by their roots… weathering the storms of life together. May we all find ourselves planted like mighty oaks of righteousness, rebuilding the ancient ruins, under the infinite and expansive Kingdom story sweeping over us!
48x78” Oil and 23ct. german gold on custom wooden panel. Finished Oct. 11, 2023.
