Through a primitive style, I paint myself in different circumstances and environments. These images remind myself of my experiences and spiritual resolutions. I use my personal feelings about life and create something tangible; a painted relief. Through the intimate nature of my images I hope that the viewer will be able to visualize themselves within the scene or have a comparable experience in which to identify with. In addition to the painted image, my work includes words, phrases and thoughts relating to the circumstances of the image. The words I use are carefully chosen to cause the viewer to question their way of thinking and at the same time they solidify my own spiritual growth."
EXPERIENCE: 1996 Graduate of Ripon College, Ripon, Wisconsin (Emphasis on studio painting), since then I have exhibited locally and am currently working on an anti-abortion series.
Julie Thom
U.S.A.
This is a scene during my teenage years, a very frightening time for me. In this image I am being tested to find out whether or not I am pregnant. God was not a part of my life then, so I had no where to turn for support. If I was pregnant, I wasn't ready to make a decision about what to do. Even though I ended up not having to make a choice, this experience gave me insight and compassion for others who may find themselves in a similar situation, but at the same time it communicates my pro-life stance. (30"W x 20"L)
Written on frame: UNDER EIGHTEEN, YOU NEED YOUR PARENTS CONSENT FOR FIELDTRIPS, EARPIERCHING AND MEDICAL SURGERY... BUT NOT FOR AN ABORTION. ABORTION IS NOT ABOUT LAWS. ITS NOT ABOUT RIGHTS. ITS A A MORAL ISSUE. IT'S A CHOICE. BUT WHO'S CHOICE? MOM? DAD? BABY? IF YOU ARE HAVING SEX, YOU ARE TAKING THE RISK OF PREGNANCY EVERY TIME. WHAT IS YOUR CHOICE? A long time ago, I thought about that choice but was lucky enough not to have to make a decision. It's an overwhelming decision for anyone to make. But it is a selfish choice to decide that a baby can not be allowed life because you don't want it to.
Acrylic paint on masonite with additional medium.
In this painting, I was recently married and had moved to a low-rent apartment in a down-trodden and crime-ridden part of the city. The apartment was in shambles. This was also my first experience of living away from home. It was a frightening time but I knew that I had to lean on God for protection. (30"W x 20"L)
Written on the frame: WE ARE ALL SURVIVORS OF SATAN'S DAILY ATTEMPTS TO DESTROY OUR FAITH. Everyone who is called by name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made - When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; When you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned. Isaiah 43:1-7 The eternal God is your refuge and underneath are the everlasting arms. Deuteronomy 33:27 Keep yourself under His protection through faith and prayer.
in
Acrylic on masonite with my hair, tissue paper, feathers, etc.
This series foretells a time in my life when drugs and alcohol clouded my vision of morality. I thought that the Bible was just a fairytale that was thrown together by some people many years ago. One day, I became fed up with my lifestyle and I decided that I needed a change. This is when I accepted Jesus into my heart as my personal savior. My life dramatically changed for the good, still it was hard not to miss the partying life that I left behind. I struggled with my old identity and my faith. As I grew in faith, it became easier everyday not to want to go back. The last painting emphasizes what I am striving for as a Christian.
Painting #2 of Self Portrait Series "Fighting with the Selves"
Note:
The figure on the ladder actually swings.
In the Joy Series, the woman appears in the darkness to share her faith with the driver. A majestic light descends from the sky as he opens his heart to the Lord and they dance in joy.
In the last painting, the man is filled with the holy spirit and preaches the good news so others may receive salvation and a great revival will fill the lands.
(Right) Painting #1 of Joy Series "This is the Day that the Lord Hath Made"
License plate reads Not 2 Late.
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