30" x 60" Abstract Original on Canvas
from the Merry & Bright Collection
This painting came together through chaos — layers of color, in every art medium, movement with every type of brush or tool, and emotion high and low …until the light began to break through. As I worked, it kept reminding me of what it feels like to follow Jesus. He never promised the path would be easy, only that it would be worth it.
In the beginning, the canvas was loud and unfiltered, just like life can be. But as the painting unfolded, I kept adding white, adding light, adding softness. It felt like watching God breathe goodness into the mess, covering the confusion with peace, shaping something holy out of what didn’t make sense at first.
The figure didn’t appear all at once. It showed up slowly, almost the way God shows up in our lives — steady, faithful, layer by layer. The colors rising through the white represent the weight and wonder of following Him: the hard days, the small obediences, the surrender, and the grace that keeps pulling us forward.
“Follow Me” is about the quiet call — the one that asks for trust, endurance, and devotion. The journey isn’t effortless, but the light that breaks through is worth every step.
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The Merry & Bright Collection is a celebration of Christ’s light breaking into the ordinary. Each original abstract painting in this collection is created in prayer, filled with color, movement, and meaning. Inspired by the joy of the season and the promise that God’s love makes all things new, these pieces are designed to lift the heart and brighten the home. Whether displayed for Christmas or cherished year-round, these works embody hope, warmth, and the radiant presence of Christ.
This piece is created on canvas, finished with a high-gloss resin coating for depth and brilliance, and comes equipped with a wire hanger—ready to hang & bring color, joy, and light into your space.
This painting comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Artwork © Natalie Haydel Barker. All rights reserved.
