Behind the Scenes of Radiant: A Look Into the Heart of My New Collection

There’s a holy kind of beauty in watching a new collection unfold. For months, my studio has been filled with warm light, desert colors, and whispered prayers as I shaped a series that feels deeply personal. Today I’m excited to take you behind the scenes of my newest mixed-media oil collection, Radiant—featuring Radiant Becoming, Desert Horizon, Desert Radiance, Peonies Reverie, and Garden in the Desert.

This collection grew out of a longing for God’s light—His steady, comforting glow that meets us in every season. One Scripture kept echoing in my heart as I painted:

“Those who look to Him are radiant.” — Psalm 34:5

That word—radiant—became the anchor for everything that followed.

The Vision Behind Radiant

The Radiant collection was born during a season when I needed renewal. Between long workdays, art shows, and everyday life, I found myself craving stillness and more of God’s presence. As I prayed, sketched, and sat with Scripture, I kept seeing warm light—soft golds, sun-soaked skies, glowing blooms.

Each painting carries a piece of that light.

This collection blends the organic beauty of florals with the rugged majesty of the desert, creating a union of softness and strength—a reminder that God can make any place bloom.

The Mixed Media Process: Layered, Textured, Alive

Every artwork in this series is created with a mix of oils, textured mediums, underpainting marks, and expressive strokes. Here’s a glimpse into how each piece comes to life:

1. Radiant Becoming

This painting captures the moment of stepping into God’s light—into who He has called you to be. Layers of warm peach, blush, and soft gold build a luminous foundation. Florals emerge through the glow, symbolizing becoming, blooming, and rising with grace.

2. Desert Horizon

Inspired by the vast, breathtaking skies of the Southwest, this piece blends desert landscapes with delicate floral elements. It speaks to God’s presence stretching from horizon to horizon—reminding us that even in wide, quiet places, His beauty surrounds us.

3. Desert Radiance

With bold textures, radiant highlights, and blooming white florals set against desert tones, this painting celebrates the unexpected light that breaks through hard places. It’s a visual reminder that God brings life to the wilderness of our hearts.

4. Peonies Reverie

Soft, dreamy, and overflowing with grace, this piece is the gentle heart of the collection. Peonies dance across the canvas in sweeping strokes and delicate layers. It’s a moment of pause—an invitation to rest, breathe, and encounter God’s peace.

5. Garden in the Desert

This painting embodies the promise God speaks in Isaiah: “I will make rivers flow on barren heights.” Florals burst into color against a desert backdrop, symbolizing flourishing where flourishing once seemed impossible. It is hope in visual form.

Why This Collection Means So Much to Me

Each piece in Radiant carries its own story, but together they share a common truth:

✨ God brings light

✨ God brings renewal

✨ God brings beauty to unlikely places

✨ And His presence makes us radiant

These paintings were created slowly and prayerfully. As I worked, I often prayed for the homes they would fill and the hearts they would encourage. My hope is that this collection brings warmth, peace, and a sense of God’s nearness to your space.

A Closing Note From My Studio

Thank you for letting me share the behind-the-scenes of Radiant. This collection feels like a milestone—one filled with risk-taking, new techniques, and fresh vision. I can’t wait for you to see these pieces in person, welcome them into your home, and make their stories part of your own.