Unmasking Art Show Virtual Tour

"Throne Room" by Everett Paul Burris
Graphite On Paper 14.5" x 11"

Artist Statement

Revelation is the final book in our christian canon of scriptures. It tells a story of the events that will transpire as God restores everything in his Kingdom. I have never really understood much of what is written in Revelation. The imagery is intense and wild. I think that is why I keep returning to read this book. I like the idea that God is wild and out of control. He will not be contained by whatever meager box I may attempt to fashion for him. I have to give up that control.

My drawing titled “Throne Room” is an attempt to illustrate a scene that is described in chapter 4 of the book. A doorway into heaven is opened and along with John, the recipient of the revelation, we are invited inside. There is a throne, and a lamp, and four living creatures. These creatures surround the throne. They are covered with eyes. I don’t know why... it just is. They have four wings, four arms and faces like different animals.

The description of this scene is detailed and yet not detailed enough. How large are the creatures? Are they standing or flying? Is the throne resting on the ground? Maybe on clouds? How large is the lamp? I could go on. I am left with the uneasy task of filling in a few details on my own. This is dangerous. What if I get something wrong? Making my drawing feels like I am jumping into a wild space with a wild God. And yet it is the same God who says,

“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.” Revelation 3:20 NLT

And so I open the door…

Portable Vision and Audio has certainly been a strange journey during these pandemic laden days. I started the session wondering if I would have the energy and time to follow through with another art show. How will we even have an art show with the cold weather and restrictions on public gatherings? In the process I have learned that God is faithful and these are my people, so here I am again. I love my people.

Oral Statement