Living Water

About the painting:
Portraits have proven to be the most challenging for me to paint. This painting was a commissioned piece I started a year ago. The theme of the painting is based on the Biblical account of the Samaritan woman who encountered Jesus at the village well. The image of the woman and water came to me suddenly, bringing with it inspiration, excitement, and determination; however, it did not last. The struggle and irritation of getting the skin tones with it's blues, greens, yellows, purples and reds just right was overwhelming. I soon gave up, walking away from it for several months. However, it was always pressing at the back of my thoughts. I knew it needed to be finished. I finally sat down and began working on it again. The desire was not there, but I pushed myself to do it and sought God for strength. Motivation and inspiration flooded back, allowing me to resume the work. This painting taught me that I cannot waste time waiting for motivation to find me. If I do, months and even years will go by completely wasted. I need to take the first step and trust God, even when I do not feel like it. He will meet me, and motivation will follow.