From my “Fruit of the Spirit” series, inspired by Galatians 5:22:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
This piece is centered on the principle of joy.
When I first felt inspired to begin this series on Instagram, I immediately wanted to start with joy. I’ve always considered myself a joyful and happy person. But literally the next week, we unexpectedly moved states — our ninth move in just three years. I felt angry, overwhelmed, and honestly discouraged.
Throughout the process of painting this piece, I kept asking myself:
“What is God helping me become?”
I’ve learned that joy is deeper than happiness. Happiness can come and go depending on circumstances, but joy is spiritual confidence. In 2 Nephi, the Lord teaches us that “men are, that they might have joy.”
Joy is a spiritual condition. It comes as we live truth and align our lives with God’s will. Even in trials, joy can remain.
One thing I love about this kiwi painting is that it doesn’t loudly scream “JOY!” Instead, it serves as a quiet, personal reminder to seek God’s joy daily.
“And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” — Genesis 2:7
This painting captures the moment humanity first received life from God.
I love the symbolism in this scripture — that we were created from the dust of the earth, something ordinary and simple, yet God chose to breathe divine life into it. What was once lifeless became eternal, sacred, and full of purpose through Him.
To me, this moment is more than the creation of Adam and Eve. It is a reminder that every person carries something divine within them. We are not accidents. We were intentionally created by a loving God who gives life, purpose, and identity.
I wanted this piece to feel peaceful and sacred — a quiet reminder that the same God who created life still breathes hope and meaning into our lives today.
There’s something so tender about the promise God gave after the storm.
This painting was inspired by the sign God gave to Noah — a reminder that even after the darkest moments, His love still covers us.
The rainbow is more than something beautiful to look at. It is a covenant. A promise of mercy, protection, and hope that stretches across generations.
“I have set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” — Genesis 9:13
“When the bow is in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant…” — Genesis 9:16
I love thinking about how God never forgets His promises — and neither should we Every time I see a rainbow, I’m reminded that He is still there. Still faithful. Still keeping His word.
To me, this piece is about quiet reassurance: that after every storm, there is still light