Meanderings by Art by Marianne

Hi Friends,

I thought I would start my first blog post by introducing myself.  I spent all my “growing up” years (no “serious” artist ever really grows up) in rural towns in Northern California and Southern Oregon.  I was (and still am) a very active and rebellious youngster. Because of this I started painting when my Mom bought me my first paint set as a way to “calm her down” (her words).  Creating artwork has been a calming force in my life very since. I did my first oil on canvas painting in Junior High School and fell in love. (Just as I side note; can you imagine, in this day and age, a Junior High art teacher giving his/her students oil paints?  This teacher is still one of the super stars of my childhood memories.) While oil painting continues to be my favorite medium I have recently been experimenting with mixed media and acrylic.

A few years ago, God opened my heart and mind to the idea that I should begin using my artwork to minister, teach, worship and further His Kingdom here on earth. (1 Peter 4:10-11 and Ephesians 4:11-16).  God has blessed me accordingly with opportunities to show my artwork at galleries in California and Oregon and it is included in private collections.  My painting titled “I Will Pour out My Spirit on All My People, Acts 2:18” has been published in two Christian magazines.  I currently curate the Art of Faith art gallery and annual art show at Fremont Presbyterian Church. I love teaching and sharing my love of art with others.  It is a great blessing for me to see others be inspired and encouraged to create art.  

 I’ve titled my blog “Meanderings” because when I think about my time here in this place (we call it “life on earth”), that’s the visual image that comes to mind.  God’s word teaches us in James 4:13-15; “Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your Life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “if it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 

So, like a stream, I meander through this life, with God as my channel, determining my course, listening for and trying to follow His will, trying hard to love people and to do things in a way that brings Him glory until I’m called Home.  For me there is no higher calling. 

Thank you for reading.

“Hiding Place” (look closely to see a hidden surprise) Mixed Media on Canvas $500

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