The New President of Corban University

24"x 30"

acrylic on canvas

I finished the painting of Dr. Sheldon Nord. He is the new President at Corban University in Salem, OR. 
I got to meet him before I painted his portrait. As he told us his story and his reason for taking the Presidency at the school,  he got very emotional about Daniel from the Old Testament in the Bible:

 " I get emotional about Daniel in Babylon because we are living in a post-Christian culture, and probably one of the most relativistic societies ever.  We must be about preparing the next generation of Daniels who know, respect and follow God's word.  Our children will face unprecedented challenges in being salt and light.  The issues of our day demand courage, boldness and resolve like never before.

To Christ be all glory!!"

I got very emotional too!

I read through the book of Daniel, looking for a quote, but I decided that what he said summed it up perfectly! So, I asked him to send me his quote in his own writing:

I ended up tracing his writing onto my painting using Derwent Inktense pencils. You can add water to the dry pencil or wet the surface to create a strong, clear color wash.

  " Inktense pencils can be used dry for rich, intense color or washed out with a little water to create a vivid translucent effect. Once dry, the color is permanent and can be worked over with other media." 

I drew it with a dry pencil and then added a clear water wash. 
I wish I had these!

 They are Sakura Koi Water Brushes. "A fine, flexible brush tip and a barrel handle with a plug to carry water." 

If you have any other ideas about how I could have put the writing on, I love to hear them!


Listening to:

Truth For Life- Alistair Begg - Daniel

The Alton Browncast

Splendid Table