A few months ago I received a commission to tell the story of Ruth & Naomi through a painting —a surprise Christmas gift for my sister-in-law to give her husband. It hangs in their home as a reminder of the passage they had read at their wedding.
What follows is the explanation of the sketch I sent my sister-in-law before proceeding with the final painting:
I read the story of Ruth a couple times, taking notes — trying to focus in on what the painting should depict. I kept in mind that the focus should be on Ruth staying with Naomi. Her unswerving devotion and loyalty. Selflessness.
I sketched this a few ways before I arrived at my final composition. I had one where Ruth and Naomi were more close up. It didn't show their whole figures. I found that I couldn't communicate the togetherness and movement enough this way. I really want to communicate Ruth (behind Naomi in orange) clinging to Naomi. Supporting her. Traveling with her. Comforting her. Upholding her. Providing for each other. I have Naomi in the brighter color as I see her helping to bring joy back into Naomi's bitter life (Ruth 1:20).
Ruth and Naomi were leaving Moab after Naomi's husband and sons died. They were heading back to Naomi's home in Bethlehem right as the barley harvest was beginning (to be followed by the wheat harvest) — at a time when the Lord provided food after a famine in Judah. I am showing them on the road — with the harvest in front of them. They are heading towards fullness. With abundance (green) on the left and dessert and emptiness (browns/ochres) on the right — I am communicating the journey — the change. I imagine them traveling on the King's Highway (the main route through Moab, NIV study Bible) and am showing this with the road they are on as well as the dotted curved line down the right side (I got this shape from the map in my study Bible). In addition to Ruth clinging to Naomi, there is so much in this passage about being fulfilled — going from emptiness to fullness. This is also a good marriage theme.
Acrylic on canvas : 16" x 16"
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