Isaiah 2:3; Psalm 27:4
OIL ON WOOD
24" x 60"
2020-2023
This majestic painting, inspired by Isaiah 2:3 and Psalm 27:4, captures the awe and reverence of "The Mountain of the Lord." It features the Salt Lake Temple resting in the valley below the grand Wasatch Mountains, symbolizing the sacred connection between heaven and earth. A towering, snow-capped mountain dominates the scene, representing the divine presence, while the lush valley in the foreground, with vibrant flora, symbolizes the journey of faith.
The same palette of blues and whites used to paint the mountain was also applied to the temple, signifying that both mountains and temples are the Lord’s house. This deliberate choice of colors reflects the harmony between nature and divinity, reinforcing the idea that sacred spaces—natural or man-made—are places where heaven meets earth.
The sky, a mix of blues, pinks, and purples, enhances the serene atmosphere, while oil on wood adds rich texture and depth. The large 24" x 60" format immerses the viewer, inviting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the sacred journey toward God’s presence.
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Amberlea painted this while living in downtown Salt Lake City, directly across the street from Temple Square. The proximity to such a sacred site profoundly influenced her work, enhancing her connection to the temple and its spiritual symbolism. It also reflects the longing expressed in Psalm 27:4: "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple." This scripture captures her longing to enter God's presence and the journey she is embarking on by learning of Him in His temples.