Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Modern Day Mother in Zion


Ok, here is the finished painting. What I attempted to portray is a modern day mother struggling to keep herself and her children safe in a wicked and dangerous world. We all know the family is under attack as never before and that as parents we get battle scarred and weary with the skirmishes that the world throws at us. This mother has been in a recent battle of some sort. She is grimy, shows fresh wounds and is tired. She remains undaunted however, and leads others onward with the torch she carries, symbolizing Jesus Christ the Light of the World. She wears armor, symbolizing the gospel and carries various weapons symbolizing the Priesthood. She is protective of her children, who look to her for hope, safety and guidance.
I wanted to realistically depict the difficulties mothers face in raising their families. It was important to me to show that she is leading out, but not obviously surrounded by people and human assistance. Our personal battles often feel as if we are very much on our own, and I tried to show that even so, we are capable and strong while being sustained in our vital work of the the last days.

10 comments:

The Art of Kim Kincaid said...

Wonderful Hatch! And I love your explanation...very inspired. I'm still working. At least one of us made the goal. Well done.

tlchang said...

Nice job Anita.

(Did Kim tell you that I did indeed officially sign up for next summer's IMC?)

Jodi Nelson said...

It's beautiful Anita! Truly. Congrats on accomplishing your goal.. ooxx`jod

Carrie said...

Anita that is beautiful! Awesome job!

Anita HartCarroll said...

Thanks,Kim, Tara, Jodi and Carrie! It means a lot to me that you like it. hugs!

Angela or Ange but not Angie said...

I saw this painting at the exhibit in the Conference center in Salt Lake City. It is absolutely beautiful and touched me deeply! Have there been prints made of this painting? Maybe that is an offensive question to ask a painter, if so I apologize. I think it would be perfect to give to my mother.

Misty said...

I also would like to know if there is a canvas giclee available for purchase--ever since the competition I have wanted to hang it in my home.

Unknown said...

Hi Anita~

I am so thankful you painted this! I know so many people will benefit from it, but I feel like you painted it just for me! I am loving my print, and I framed it with a distressed frame to match the theme of battle. It gives me strength to carry on each time I look at it!

Gratefully,
Linda Robbins

Alison said...

I love this picture! It came at a time of real hardship over a year ago when I felt completely alone in charting the course for my children. It is inspired and beautiful and it's been on my mind ever since. Thank you for sharing.

Mike Grace said...

I love this! Very nicely done.