Biola University in La Mirada, California commissioned me to make a painting. It was part of their “Malcomb Initiative,” a fund contributed by an art-loving alumni by that name, to foster both art and missions at the school. Check out my short video unveiling the painting.
The first challenge was to conceive how to paint something conceptual when my paintings are generally more concrete, of “things.”
My mind went to “faces,” always good conveyors of emotions and of what might be going on in the mind. Here’s how my thinking began, roughed out in pencil.
I went with an abstract background, and a triptych (a single painting on three canvases), a logical solution what with three-part statement being conveyed.
A close up of the background texture.
I first worked with the canvas on the floor, walking around it, throwing paint, my shoes taking on the look of the canvas in the process.
A close up of the first section.
The middle section.
The final section.
The painting’s title: “Micah 6:8,”mixed media (acrylic and oil), 30 tall by 72 inches wide, shown here butted together . . . the final hanging will have an inch or two gap between the canvases.
As many are familiar, the full Biblical reference reads: “What does the Lord require of you but to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before your God.”
A good reminder for all.
God bless us everyone.
10:26 am
How deeply thought provoking… I appreciate seeing and hearing your thoughts on this piece and your process.
1:51 pm
I love this work- thank you for sharing!
4:43 pm
Hyatt, I always love watching you present your work with explanations of the meaning, as well as your own thought processes in bringing it about. Love the background (as always!)…love the concept…love the process…LOVE the shoes!
7:17 pm
Well done Hyatt! What room will this be hung? How great of Biola to commission such a great passage.
6:11 pm
Loved this.. I always enjoy your paintings ,but mostly I enjoy you as a pastor . Thank you beautiful paintings.
2:57 pm
Beautifully done. You’ve succeeded in displaying the concepts in a gracious manner. Thank you for sharing.