Our featured artist for the month of February is Marla Jean Clinesmith. She was awarded first place in our virtual online Covered & Kept exhibition for her piece, “The Name Above All Names.”

“My work explores divine protection through ancient Hebrew pictographic language, where words are not abstract symbols but visual carriers of meaning. In Hebrew thought, God's Name is both a refuge and a blessingsomething that can be called upon and something that can be placed upon a people. Proverbs 18:10 declares, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe," expressing God's Name as a place of protection and security. In contrast, Numbers 6:24-26 reveals God's instruction to Aaron to bless the people, stating that in doing so, God would place His Name upon them. This priestly blessing speaks of being covered, kept, and held in God's presence, favor, and peace. Through the ancient picture letters of Paleo Hebrew and layered color, my work visually interprets God's protection as both refuge and covering. I work primarily in acrylics, using bold color, texture, and symbolic forms to invite contemplation and discovery.”

“Name Above All Names” centers on the Paleo Hebrew word Shem (Name), rendered in ancient pictographic letters and gold leaf. The picture letters themselves speak of destroying chaos. Set against vibrant blocks of color, the Name reflects God’s presence as both covering and protection.”

You can find more of Marla Jean Clinesmith’s work on her website: https://www.HebrewWordPics.com