DIANNA WALLACE SOISSON
The Journey 12 x 16 sold I spent years worrying about the future only to realize that the journey is just as important as the destination. I appreciate the challenges and victories, lessons learned, and experiences gained on my journey. This is a piece of my personal journey. The light between the leaves represents the everlasting spiritual bond with my father that guides me everyday.
Stepping Stones 12 x 16 sold I once read that instead of carrying our mistakes around with us, we should lay them on the ground and use them as stepping stones.
Home is the Journey 12 x 16 sold Home is our place of comfort. We become comfortable within our surroundings, and only then do our true selves evolve. I am compelled to say that we learn our “life’s lessons” at home. We continue these lessons when we take on a “home” of our own. “You give glory to the Father when you produce a lot of fruit and therefore show that you are disciples.” John 15:8
In the End; it is the Journey That Matters 12 x 16 sold The end of the journey will be about the person we have become. Our soul has been sculpted by the friends we choose, the decisions we make, and our everyday experiences. It is our individual choices that have led us to specific destinations. “Trust the Lord, and do good things. Live in the land, and practice being faithful.” Psalm 37:3
Caught Up In the Moment 12 x 16 sold It was a turning point in my life. I was asked to be a full-time nanny for a military family whose mother was deployed. My new opportunity was an absolute blessing. I needed this new family as much as they needed me. My life was once again filled with nap times, lullabies, and innocent laughter. I was indeed, caught up int the moment.
Beyond All Boundaries 12 x 31 sold My life as an artist and a woman has taken me steps beyond what I ever dreamed I was capable of. Not only was I a nanny, but these children and their parents became my extended family. “Entrust your efforts to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3
The Path Less Traveled 19 x 27 sold As both a wife and nanny, I felt a strong calling to pursue a God given gift of art. Despite sacrifices, difficulties, and challenges, God blessed me with in satiable passion and desire to share with others. “My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you are tested in different ways.” James 1:2
Breakaway 28 x 23 sold Becoming empty nesters is a joyous time as we watch our children become independent adults. It’s a bit melancholy as well. It is difficult to watch our children make mistakes, but I know in the end they will be that much stronger for their journey through life. “Trust the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and He will make your paths smooth.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Refuge 29 x 22 sold As I approached the completion of my piece I realized that I was coming upon the anniversary of my father’s passing. That Sunday, I was reminded of the hymn, Eagle’s Wings: “Say to the Lord, ‘My Refuge, My Rock in Whom I trust...’. I was able to complete this painting with ease and ultimate satisfaction. Never has a hymn been so comforting.
Forgiven 18 x 32 sold Forgiving others and ourselves gives us new life; a fresh start and a second chance! “Whenever you pray, forgive anything you have against anyone. Then your Father in heaven will forgive your failures.” Mark 11:25
Moment of Grace 21 x 32 sold I suffered a concussion for which I received both occupational and physical therapy. I discovered that not only was my recent memory vague but color was constrained to a few colors and limited gradation. While working on this piece I was advised “to put it aside for a while.” After two months of hiatus I returned to the drawing and I recognized additional color and values once again. I was absolutely amazed as it came to life. “He has made his miracles unforgettable. The Lord is merciful and compassionate.” Psalm 111:4
Fellowship 4 x 10 sold As the leaves of various, colorful tree species gather on the ground... “Finally, everyone must live in harmony, be sympathetic, love each other, have compassion, and be humble.” 1 Peter 3:8
Generosity 10 x 6 sold Focusing on what we have, prevents us from feeling grateful for the abundant blessings from God. The ripples represent our never-ending generosity of serving, teaching, encouraging, sharing, leading, and helping others. “All goes well for the person who is generous and lends willingly. He earns an honest living.” Psalm 112:5
Companionship 5 x 10 sold Being a nanny provided me with an unconditioonal support system. One of the children became my little apprentice. She reminded me that her, like God, is always at our side and is our rock, our companion.
Healing 16 x 38 sold Time, prayer and forgiveness have a way of healing all things; especially during the years of emotional, physical, and spiritual challenges. Transcending from pain into healing, I see a new palette of colors. These are colors that express excitement, joy, satisfaction, and love. “Have faith that you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22
The Truth Will Set You Free 13 x 33 sold Giving up our secrets is the only path to the health and wholeness we deserve. Sharing “our history” and “our journey” with others provides insight for growth and healing. The forms in the drawing entering in the left are in disarray. Illusiveness and invalidity are removed by the truth (leaf) and our lives become clear and guided once more. “The truth will set you free.” John 8:32
Haven 15 x 34 sold This is the lake at Camp Dainava in Manchester, Michigan. Lithuanian crosses are randomly placed throughout the Camp’s acreage. This helps create the peaceful and blissful aura that surrounds me whenever I visit. “The Lord is near to those whose hearts are humble. He saves those whose spirits are crushed.” Psalm 34:18
New Discoveries 24 x 12 sold Until now, teaching high school art, retailing, and being a nanny have taken precedence to working as a full-time artist. I have now entered a new path in my life and I am both excited and anxious as to where it will take me. “I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. They are plans for peace and not disaster, plans to give you a future filled with hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Slumber 28 x 17 sold Anxiety, worries, and concerns can easily take over our minds, bodies, and souls. Anxiety can weaken us to the point of illness. “Slumber” is about handing over the problems to God so that our soul can be at ease and rest. “My soul, be at rest in God alone, from whom comes my hope.” Psalm 62:6
His Promise 23 x 15 sold As I was recovering from a bilateral (saddle) pulmonary embolism in the hospital in 2014, a heavy rainstorm was passing through. A few minutes later a beautiful rainbow lit up the sky and the storm became its background. I was immediately reminded of God’s covenant to us. I smiled and I remembered the covenant that I made to Him during my first embolism in 2004. He gave me a gift of art and I would use it for His use. “I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” Genesis 9:13
Emergence 10 x 7 sold Becoming the true self God intended me to be. “Remember not the events of the past, the things of long ago consider not; See, I am doing something new! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? In the desert I make a way, in the wasteland, rivers.” Isaiah 43:18-19
Transition 7 x 10 sold Our lives transition from one stage to another; childhood, teen years, young adulthood, marriage, parenthood, emptynesters, grandparenthood, etc.. As we enter each stage we may struggle as we adjust. I try to remind myself to hand it over to God through the struggles. “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Changing Perspectives 25 x 26 When going through life’s journeys, we come across circumstances that we try to change or understand. We use prayer to help us transgress from natural sin back to the healing presence of God. Prayer doesn’t change my circumstances but it helps me change my perspectives. “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Veni Vidi Vici 19 x 37 sold I came, I saw, I conquered. One phase of my life’s journey has taken me from dark, cool colors to bright, warm colors. Challenges were accepted and defeated. “I have the strength for everything through Him who empowers me.” Philippians 4:13
In the Beginning 19 x 38 sold About 40 years ago a gentleman brought a few lotus bulbs from Japan to the Manchester area in Michigan. There he tossed them into his lake not knowing if they would grow or not. Today on this private estate are lotuses as far as the eye can see. “In the Beginning” represents the first of many friendships along my career that God laid before me. “And though your beginning was small, your latter days will be very great.” Job 8:7
My Shelter 22 x 31 sold When my fears and my anxiety overwhelm me, I seek out the place where I feel God all around me. His creations give peace, calmness, and tranquility. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
Dancing In the Light 19 x 14 sold Even in the midst of the mundane events of my daily schedule I find little God winks. God winks are those “coincidental” signs that tell me I’m on the right path. I can’t help but smile knowing that my heart is filled with His light and love. “Then spoke Jesus again to them, saying, I am the light of the world; he that follows me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of love.” John 8:12
Beside Peaceful Waters 20 x 47 sold Whenever I get caught up in the “wants” of life, it brings on anxiety and disappointment. I need to remind myself that God provides food for our nourishment and water for cleansing our mind, spirit, and soul. “The Lord is my shepherd, there is nothing I lack. In green pastures you let me graze; to safe waters you lead me; you restore my strength. You guide me along the right path for the sake of your name.” Psalm 23:1-3
Finding Rest 4.5 x 13.5 sold When my mind, body and soul become tired I know that I can depend on God to take care of me. He walks with me, He never leaves me and He cares for me. He calms and renews my spirit. “I myself”, the Lord answered, “will go along, to give you rest.” Exodus 33:14
Gone Astray 12 x 8 sold It’s hard living in this life where sinful behavior is viewed as normal and virtue is mocked. We bend a few rules so that we fit in better with those around us. Before we know it, we are compromising God’s principles for the destructive paths. “Sometimes a way seems right a man, but the end of it leads to death!” Proverbs 14:12
Hearing the Whisper 13.5 x 8.25 sold When chaos swirls around me it is difficult to hear the subtleness of the babbling brook. Life’s disorder screams in my ear while His peace is more of a whisper. God’s whisper and the peaceful flow of the creek carry me to serenity. “I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.” John 16:33
Living Water 7 x 13.5 sold “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture says: ‘River of living water will flow from within him.’” John 7:38
Flawless 24 x 16 sold Water is God’s mercy and grace. We ask for forgiveness as we work through His mercy. Although I will always see and know my sins (blemishes and flaws), God renews us through His grace and mercy and we become flawless in His eyes. God knew long before earth was created, that He would love us through every sin, every disappointment, every single time we broke His heart. Yet he He called us holy. He set us apart as His own children. Then He blessed us abundantly and overwhelmingly. “You yourselves were once aliented from him; you nourished hostility in your hearts because of your evil deeds. But now Christ has achieved reconciliation for you in his mortal body by dying, so as to present you to God holy, free of reproach and blame.” Colossians 1:21-22
Forgiven II 16 x 22.5 sold Forgiveness is the key to freedom from the effects of our past. What is the most difficult action of the human being? Forgiveness, resentment, and anger against others and ourselves slowly kills our souls. Forgiving others and ourselves gives new life; a fresh start and a second chance. “Whoever is forgiven much, loves much.” Luke 7:47
The Color Honeycomb 9.5 x 6.5 sold The color of the water reminds me of honeycomb which reminds me of the scripture about kindness. Being kind to one another displays love and unselfishness. “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24
The Light Within 9.5 x 6.5 Everyone has a light in their soul. Prayer from within and from others will bring it forth. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5
Commitment to Consistency 18 x 12.5 sold A dear artist friend of mine has such tremendous faith in me and my art that she performed a selfless act to put my career into motion. Because of this I have made a commitment to her and God to persevere through life with my art and share it with everyone. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from, the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
Camouflaging Fear 14 x 13 sold As a mother of a deployed soldier, I fear the unknowm. I pray everyday that God will bring him home safe and sound. “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Water’s Edge 10 x 18 sold Wading along the stream; sometimes on my journey I find it difficult to take the next step. I become discouraged and feel that my difficulties signify my possible lack of faith. But then I realize that those difficulties are a means to help me stay on the path that God has chosen for me. “Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:7
Colors of Growth 17.5 x 12 sold As my art grows and advances in new directions, so does my faith. “For this reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love.” 2 Peter 1:5-7
Beyond My Domain 12.5 x 18.5 sold What we find most difficult to accept is the way we may see the future basing on what is in the present. The future is not for us to see but to rely and have faith in God. “Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil.” Matthew 6:34
Obstacles and Challenges 15.5 x 12.5 sold Sometimes I feel as if I have been thrown more than enough obstacles and challenges to take on. I wonder “why me? “Consider it all joy, my brothers, when you encounter various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. And let perseverance be perfect, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4
State of Surrender 18.5 x 11.5 sold I doubt myself when it comes to my art. With faith I can surrender and allow God to do His own thing with my talent. Holding onto faith I believe will bring about my highest desire. “For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future of hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
Side By Side 5 x19 The relationship between a husband and wife is meant to be one of love, respect, and support. God made them to complement each other through a healthy companionship. “For whom the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, with the proper functioning of each part, bring about the body’s growth and builds itself up with love.” Ephesians 4:16
Nothing is Hidden 7 x 19 sold Anxiety hits every time the present circumstances lend itself to a questionable and possible resistive future. I wish I could see the future in order to alleviate fear. “For nothing is hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light.” Luke 8:17
Diversity 9 x 19 sold Growing, learning, and accepting diversity in this world has been uplifting for me. Just like the leaves in this drawing, we come from different ethnic backgrounds, countries, religions and in unity create a beautiful painting. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28
A New Perspective 19 x 13 available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Attempting to draw something more out of my realm can be challenging for me. I’m stepping outside of my “ordinary”, hoping to see God’s bigger picture for me. Even if I search for that bigger picture, God in His infinite wisdom, will reveal it to me when it is time. “Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:2-3
Commitment to Consistency II 19 x 12 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Just so your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16
The Summons 6 x 19 sold The day I finished this piece my sister-in-law passed on to meet our Lord. She was strong in her faith and never doubted His work through her. The hymnal “The Summons” reminded me of Kathy’s devotion. “Christ, your summons echoes true when you but call my name. Let me turn and follow you and never be the same. In your company I’ll go where your love and footsteps show, thus I’ll move and live and grow in you and you in me.”
Twists and Turns 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Life has presented me so many twists and turns that at times I question His plan for me. But then I realize that He gives me the tools to get through it. I just need to open my eyes and heart. “No trial has ever come to you but what is human. God is faithful and will not let you be tried beyond your strength; but with the trial he will also provide a way out, so that you may be able to bear it.” Corinthians 10:13
Yesterday and Today 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman Peterson Gallery Forgetting about yesterday is difficult sometimes with its faults, guilt, pain, and anger always haunting us. I can’t undo what has been done. Today is a new day. It’s fresh. It’s present. It’s doable with God’s help. “He delivered us from the power of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14
The Great Pursuit 17 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery It seems I am chasing something all the time. I’m chasing the dust in the house, the dirty laundry, mending the house, errands, meetings, etc.. But I need to make sure that I’m keeping love in my heart. I want to pursue what God provides for me. What challenges my patience and kindness also gives me the opportunity to strengthen God’s gifts. The dusty and disorganized house will help me practice my patience. A classroom filled with rambunctious children gives me the opportunity to practice kindness and love. “Pursue love, but strive eagerly for the spiritual gifts.” 1 Corninthians 14:1
Hardships...the Way to Peace 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery We will find happiness if we embrace hardships instead of resisting these intrusions into our daily lives. We can learn from the swallows who leave Capistrano (on the feast of St. Joseph) March 19 and begin their journey north. People noticed as the birds were leaving, they placed twigs in their beaks. One would think carrying these “hardships” was foolish. But the birds would drop the twigs on the ocean when they got tired, then would float, using the twigs to rest on until they could continue the journey. So the very thing that appeared to make the journey difficult was, in fact, what made it possible. What appears to be a burden can become a blessing. The only way to find out is to stay with the burden of the cross and to be transformed by it in the present moment. “For you surely have a future, and your hope will not be cut off.” Proverbs 23:18
I Have Enough 9.5 x 19 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery God grants us beautiful pleasures while here on earth, but it’s just a glimpse of the amazing next life with Him. “Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” John 20:29
True Self 9.5 x 19 sold We are all unique in God’s great design. He has given us each a unique talent, skill, gift, and destiny. He gave us these to share and serve others in His kingdom. “The Spirit has given each of us a special way of serving others.” 1 Corinthians 12:7
Tomorrow 19 x 12.5 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” Matthew 6:34
A Positive Influence 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Jesus is a perfect example of how to live in the light. His goodness inspires me to be a positive influence to all around me. “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
So Much Grace 10.25 x 19 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery God loves us no matter what we do; our poor decisions, unkind thoughts, sins. We don’t have to ask for His love or forgiveness. He has given it freely and graciously before we even know we needed it. “From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” John 1:16
Refresh and Restore 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery I am reminded through times of mental and physical exhaustion that God tells us it’s okay to rest. He made us to perform but also to replenish when needed. “It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.” Psalm 127:2
And She Continues To Sparkle 17.5 x 13 sold In memory of Katie Stimac whose life ended way too soon. She lost her battle to Leukemia at the age of 24. This was one of her favorite places to go in the upper peninsula of Michigan. Katie was a beautiful, sparkling warrior. “Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with those who have fallen asleep.” 1 Thessalonians 4:14
Joyful Surrender 19 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Even though Jesus has authority over everything he doesn’t enforce it. He is loving, humble, and patient. He waits for us to go to Him and ask for His help; to hand over our will and all authority. We joyfully surrender because we know His love for us is immeasurable and endless. “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” Matthew 28:18
Where Contentment Lives 16 x 11 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Feelings of discouragement. “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9
Finding the Will 16.75 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery Searching for what my purpose is here on earth. “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” Whenever you turn to the right hand or whenever you turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21
Faith Spilling Over 3.5 x 19 Nothing is beyond God’s ability. No matter how simple or difficult, no sincere prayer is unworthy of God’s consideration. A heart filled to overflowing with faith will not doubt God’s response. “All things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.” Matthew 21:22
Finding the Will II 18 x 13 sold available at Sugarman-Peterson Gallery God knows us inside and out. We sometimes feel confused and maybe don’t fully understand our own thoughts or emotions. But God knows them. He has plans and purposes for our lives. He made us with care and intention. He knows what will happen and promises to be with us through all things. “Lord, you have probed me, you know me: you know when I sit and stand; you understand my thoughts from afar. My travels and my rest you mark; with all my ways you are familiar. Even before a word is on my tongue, Lord, you know it all.” Psalm 139: 1-4
Foundation of Faith 19 x 13 sold Jesus teaches us that our lives need to be built on a strong and solid foundation and that He is that rock. If we build our lives on Jesus, that means that everything we do will be based on Him. He will be our strength. The rock is surrounded by water (daily prayer) to support my faith. “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock.” Matthew 7:24
Foundation of Love 19 x 13 sold
copyright by Dianna Wallace Soisson 2024