July-August 2022 - Woman at the Well

July 1, 2022 by Erin Pearce
Artist: Daniel Bonnell 

(USA, Contemporary)

“Each work of art is a devotion,” artist Daniel Bonnell explains. “This manner of working becomes a creative conductor that allows my process to become centering prayer, a means to listen — and to be held.”* The contemplative process that produced this issue’s cover, Woman at the Well, invites us into a moment of centering prayer and holy listening as we consider the painting.

Begin your contemplation of this artwork by rereading the story of Jesus meeting the Samaritan woman in John 4:1-42. What word, phrase, or moment stands out to you from this story? Holding what you have received in your heart, turn now to the painting.

The image is divided in half by Jesus and the Samaritan woman. The dark blue and black of their clothing contrasts with the bright background, where the faint shape of a sun emerges — suggesting the heat of the day and the need for a cool drink from the well. Both Jesus and the woman are looking down. Jesus has his hands pressed together in prayer, while the woman’s hands are drawn together at the jar of water. What do you imagine is happening in this moment? What are Jesus and the woman thinking? What emotions arise for you as you contemplate this artwork? What invitation do you receive from the image and this story from scripture? How will you respond?

* https://bonnellart.com/statement


Cover art courtesy of Daniel Bonnell. ©2021 Daniel Bonnell. Prints of cover art available from FineArtAmerica.com. Non-profit organizations, all churches, and individuals may download this digital image for free at BonnellArt.com.


0 Comments
Log In to leave a comment

About Daily Devotional

The Upper Room magazine's mission is to provide a practical way to listen to scripture, connect with believers around the world, and spend time with God each day.

Read More Image by: Guy MOLL