One of our ongoing invitations to AIC artists is to share the story or inspiration behind each piece they create. Those words often reveal something that the artwork alone cannot—a glimpse into the artist’s thoughts, experiences, hopes, and imagination.
As we listen to their stories, something meaningful happens. We begin to see the person behind the artwork rather than allowing assumptions or preconceived ideas to define who they are. Their art gives us an opportunity to discover something new about them, while reminding us that there is far more to every person than the circumstances that brought them to prison.
Art has a remarkable way of opening doors—on both sides. Through creativity and story, the artist invites us in, and in return, we are invited to see them with greater understanding, appreciation, and humanity.
“By His Wounds”
Since God alone is the one who gave me the heart and the talent for artwork, I can’t help but be inspired to use this ability for his glory. I wanted to do a depiction of Jesus that both captures a look of compassion and love. I title this piece, “By His Wounds”, because of the nail marks that I’ve placed upon his wrists. This is important because of a very significant passage in the Bible that speaks of the coming Savior who will die in the place of sinners to reconcile them back to God. Isaiah 53:5 says, “But he was pierced for our transgressions. He was crushed for our iniquities. Upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds we are healed.” Jesus is the only one who could ever fit this description. He is the prophesied Messiah and by his wounds he has brought salvation to all who trust in Him.
AIC Artist, B. Watson