THE RESTING WELL
This piece illustrates how Betha finds inspiration for her paintings. In the story from the book of John, Chapter 4, Jesus, tired from his travels, rests by a well and has a divine encounter with a Samaritan woman. During this meeting, Jesus says, “ But whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
Betha attributes her artistic talents and creative musings to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Within the painting, the portrayal of a young woman serves as a representation of Betha herself. Notably, the well depicted in the artwork symbolizes the wellspring of her creativity, incorporating subtle references to the Trinity. Rather than a traditional well crank, the young woman is depicted holding a paintbrush, symbolizing the tangible manifestation of her inspirations. The inclusion of butterfly wings and butterflies within the piece signifies themes of transformation and the perpetual cycle of change, depicted as the butterflies gracefully emerge from the well. Moreover, the presence of coffee in the painting symbolizes attentiveness, with the traditional saucer being replaced by a small bible, adding a layer of significance to the composition.
The moon and the flowers that bloom under the evening moonlight serve as inspirations for Betha's dreams, which she translates onto canvas.
