Rise Above by Mark Keathley

I was honored to paint the featured work of art for this wonderful western art community and the patrons who enjoy the best western art event in America! I couldn't have been more thrilled with the fall arts festival auction having set a new record sale for the festival and for me personally when two very interested bidders took the price over the top- $77,500 !!!! Thank you! Having so many family and friends here to share the moment added twice the joy! Thank you! I also got to meet so many amazing artists and art lovers - all the best to you all!

Artist Notes:

As we survey the political and social landscape which is changing fast around us, we often don’t really know what to do. Most of us have a gathering of friends that we talk to about such issues, those of like mind, but the conversation rarely leads us to peace. In my own life, as I have seen the abuse and victimization of others on TV (watching in horror as the fire of riots breaks out in senseless ways), I have only found one place where peace can be found. I close my eyes and picture myself high above sitting with my best friend, Jesus, where the conflict looks small and distant.

I asked him what I should do about that “down there,” and he said, “Do as I did. Let love reign.”     

“How do I do that?” I asked.   

“I will show you when the time comes. Just stick with me.” It wasn’t a voice I heard but an imaginary conversation that I believe is inspired by His Spirit within each of us. “I will give you what to say when the moment arrives. Let faith manifest in love. I am with you.”

You can see the concern on their faces. The landscape is changing before them so they retreat to a high place and sit quietly waiting for the moment when they will be called to “RISE ABOVE.”

24x20 SN 95  $750 Framed or $550 Unframed
24x20 AP 15   $1195 Framed or $995 Unframed
30x24 SN 50  $995 Framed or $765 Unframed
30x24 AP 10   $1555 Framed or $1325 Unframed
48x36 SN 25  $2350 Framed or $1800 Unframed
60x48 SN 10  $3895 Framed or $2900 Unframed