Symbolism of the Dove

The symbol of the flying bird in the corner of many of my paintings and  prints can be called a "chop mark", similar to those used in Oriental paintings to symbolize the signature of the artist. In Chinese and Japanese ink drawings and watercolors, the chop mark represents the hand and personality of the creator of the artwork.

In my own paintings, the symbol of the dove has been hand-stamped into the work as an acknowledgement that I am not its creator, but that the work has been inspired and guided by the Lord who provides both talent and creativity for my endeavor.  As such, the honor in creating and finishing any inspired work would be given to Him who makes it possible.

"For by Him all things were created, by Him and for Him, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible... He is before all things, and in HIm all things hold together."  -- Colossians 1:16-17

"And after being baptized, Jesus went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending as a dove, and coming upon Him, and behold, a voice out of the heavens, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well-pleased."  -- Matthew 3:16-17