As a hen gathers Her chicks

2022

Watercolor, gouache, and metallic ink

The image of God gathering us as chicks* inspired this piece. The painting features a divine figure with the legs and wings of a chicken and the head of a woman, standing in front of a field of wheat and clear blue skies which symbolize the flag of Ukraine.

The idea for this work came to me suddenly while reading about and reflecting on the refugee crisis resulting from the war in Ukraine. Considering the drastic influx of refugees over the past decade, many from war-torn countries, I envisioned this composition as a powerful expression of divine love and protection.

This piece represents the belief that God is aware of our needs and is present with us through life’s challenges. The imagery of a hen gathering her chicks symbolizes protection, comfort, and guidance, conveying a message of love and care for all.

* referenced in Matthew 23:37, Luke 13:34, and 3 Nephi 10:4