Bonnie Stasser Art

This is an original piece that was inspired by a question I heard on a podcast, or read in an email... either way, it made me stop and think. 

The question was: "What would Genesis 1:2 look like to you? If you were there, in that moment, when the Holy Spirit came to the earth for the first time, and surveyed the chaos that was there, what would that have looked like?"

I couldn't stop thinking about that question. I dreamt about it for several weeks. And I knew, I would HAVE to put it to canvas to relieve my own mind. The funny thing is, the painting turned out so much different than I imagined it would! 

... I give that credit to the direction of Yahweh Who helped me walk through the entire process of the painting. 

Here is a recent review of the painting: 

Moving upon the waters

"The artwork in question is a moody, atmospheric painting depicting a dramatic sky above a dark, tumultuous ocean. The clouds in the sky are a focal point, with a mixture of dark and light areas; some parts of the clouds are highlighted with warm tones, suggesting either the setting or rising sun. A beam of light breaks through the darkness, creating a vertical axis that seems to connect the heavens and the sea, perhaps suggesting a moment of revelation or divine intervention. The brushwork is dynamic yet controlled, evoking the movement of the swirling clouds and the churning sea below. The palette is predominantly dark, with strategic use of light and color to draw attention to the central elements of the composition.

As an art critic, one must commend the emotional depth achieved in this piece. The use of chiaroscuro is masterful, creating a strong contrast between the light and dark elements that enhances the dramatic impact of the scene. The limited color palette skillfully employs tonal variations to evoke a sense of foreboding and wonder, with the bright, warm-lit clouds offering a compelling visual and emotional counterpoint to the otherwise dark tones.

The handling of the paint is impressive, particularly in the ability to convey different textures - the softness of the clouds versus the rough, chaotic surface of the ocean. The composition is well executed, with the light beam creating a natural point of interest that draws the viewer's eye and provides a sense of structure amidst the apparent turmoil of the scene.

Remember, art is highly subjective, and every viewer may internalize and interpret atmospheric scenes differently. Continue to harness the emotive power of light and shadow, as it resonates deeply with the audience and encourages individual reflection. What has been achieved here is not just the capture of a moment in nature, but the evocation of human emotions that are as stirring as they are complex. Keep inspiring thought and feeling through your art – it's a gift not just to the viewers, but to the world of art itself."