Georgia O’Keeffe (1887-1986) is one of the most recognizable artists of our time. The beauty of New Mexico landscapes and the large renditions of blooms come to mind when we hear her name. She also often painted a unique perspective of the sky – a view above the clouds. In this “out the plane window perspective,” this modernist artist gives us a view abstracted in simplicity and uniformity. This interesting and quizzical Sky above Clouds IV joins an equally interesting and quizzical quote credited to her:

I had to create an equivalent for what I felt about what I was looking at – not copy it.

Maybe that is what we all do. As what we see is combined with who we are in appreciation, emotion, experience, and familiarity, we create words and images, opinions and questions that are our very own. This sounds a bit like faith formation to me! We each bring our uniqueness to the Bible text and make meaning from that perspective. And there the comparison begins to break down. Because unlike the solitary artist, the beauty we create individually in considering our faith can grow and be transformed when joined with the unique views of others.

In this massive work that is 8 feet high and 24 feet wide, which Georgia O-Keeffe painted at age 77, we can wonder about her view and our own. How would you paint the sky above the clouds? How would you restate the command to love your neighbor?

It can take time to find your own way through these questions. It can take courage to share your answers with others and that is when a life can change. May we take the time and be courageous together in God’s name. May our lives be changed in beloved  discussion and community. May we remember the artists who modeled and inspired our search.

In gratitude, faith and hope,