8 x 10, acrylic paint, acrylic gloss medium, brushes, stretched canvas
The painting is from a surfer’s point of view. He looks down along the face of the wave he will soon ride, and sees what lies before him. I was inspired by the Impressionist artists of the 19th-century, especially Van Gogh. I used Van Gogh’s distinct thick brush strokes and bright colors to show the motion of the water, and the reflection of the light.
I was inspired to use this as my subject out of my love of surfing, and because it portrays the stage of life I am currently in. As a senior in highschool, I have a big wave ahead of me. I do not know exactly what this wave will bring, but I know God is in control. The tip of the surfboard leads the eye towards the sun, which is reflected along the water and the wave. I want my life to point to and reflect the Light, my savior Jesus Christ. It has taken much work and discipline in order to get to this launching point. A surfer must paddle through large masses of white water in order to reach the unbroken wave. It is exhausting, and sometimes scary, but it is entirely worth it. Riding the wave brings a feeling of pure joy and accomplishment. Similarly, I had to paddle through years of rigorous education. Classical education takes years of discipline and hard work. I believe that man is called to do his best in all he does to the glory of God. Sometimes trying your best in all you do is exhausting, but it is worth it. I am immensely grateful for the education I have received, the amazing teachers who have mentored me, and the countless life lessons I have learned along the way. As I am about to graduate, I look down along the face of the wave ahead of me. I feel the accomplishment of all the hard work I paddled through. I feel prepared to ride the wave. I am ready to launch.