Christian art has always served as a powerful tool to convey divine truths, from the early Church’s hidden symbols to the Renaissance’s iconic masterpieces. Today, my prophetic art continues this tradition, using visual narratives to inspire faith and spiritual reflection. Through collections like “Behold Him: The One Who Transforms,” I aim to connect viewers to the timeless message of God’s love and transformation.

Discover Behold Him: The Jesus Collection by Mindi Oaten, a Christian art series inspired by the life of Jesus, featuring symbolic elements like the monarch butterfly to reflect spiritual transformation and God’s grace. Explore the collection to deepen your personal reflection and bring beauty into your home.

Balancing ministry, art, and family is a constant journey of faith and flexibility. As a Christian artist, I see my art as an act of worship, but my roles as a wife and mother are equally sacred. Through prayer and intentionality, I’ve learned to embrace the rhythm God has set for my life, trusting Him to guide me in all areas.

Discover the heart behind prophetic art in this inspiring post by Mindi Oaten. Learn how each piece is more than just a painting—it’s an act of worship, co-created with the Holy Spirit to inspire and uplift. Explore the powerful symbolism of the monarch butterfly and themes of transformation in her latest collection, “Behold Him: The One Who Transforms.” Dive into the spiritual journey that fuels Mindi’s creative process and find out how her art can bring peace and inspiration into your space.

Read more on the blog to explore the full story behind the art!

The New Wine: The life and sacrifice of Jesus became our new wine, providing for a new covenant that provides for a communal response; a constant flow of an inpouring and outpouring to others. For this symbol is a representation of the new covenant that now exists between God and man. It is the impartation of new life through the Holy Spirit, who is at work amongst His people. God chose humanity, a weak and fragile vessel to house the Imago Dei.

What humility, what honor to house His presence. It’s the practice of abiding and becoming one in relationship, rather than needing to prove or earn a right standing with God through the Law. “Do not think that I came to do away with or undo the Law [of Moses] or the [writings of the] Prophets; I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For I assure you and most solemnly say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke [of the pen] will pass from the Law until all things [which it foreshadows] are accomplished” (Matthew 5:17-18, AMP).

Christ has accomplished all, He has become our complete sacrifice, the spotless lamb. And in doing so, His grace provides a higher standard of righteousness, because His glory resides from within.

Remaining in Him is the only way to receive and be carriers of the new wine. Therefore, we need to be open to the new and not idolize ways of old. The Kingdom is all about transforming us into the image of Christ.

The Old & New Wineskins: The old wineskin represented the religious practices, customs, and traditions of ancient times (that from the old covenant), which was both practiced and highly revered. The religious leaders of that time tried to preserve the old garments, because they found the “new” offensive. This was a threat to the religious systems of hierarchal order, an embodiment of people who had become entrenched in ego and blinded by pride, who had lost fellowship with the Lord.

The new cloth calls for righteous living and thereby provides for one to become spiritually strong, encouraging others to right relationship with the Father. In times of old a wineskin was made from an animal, such as sheep, goat, or ox. After being prepared, it would become filled with either wine or water. However new skins could stretch without bursting, whereas to reuse the old would bring a loss to the wine and skin as both would burst forth in the fermentation process. Therefore, the new message of the Kingdom of God must be received with soft, pliable hearts.

This is a call for a renewal in the Kingdom of God, to advance and distance itself from the dried out and inflexible system of what was. The new wineskin must be able to expand and contract, ready to adjust, so that all will remain strong and stand.

Fermentation: For anything to become fermented, one would know that it takes time. They say that aged grapes reap a good wine. Spiritually, this means that our hearts become one with His. We do this through meditating on His word and taking time to abide in His presence.

-Mindi Oaten Art

Visually the image of salt is reflective of snow, and the coming of a new season. Snow is a representation of purity, acting as a blanket that covers the earth. Both snow and salt provide for a cleansing and opportunity for renewal to begin. The timing of this painting is appropriate, as we approach the beginning of a new year and another closes.

It provides for a moment to pause and ask, “Lord, are there areas in my life where I have lost my saltiness?” And if so, would you expose those places to me so that I can identify areas that are needed to change.

So why the comparison of salt to a believer’s life? To effectively answer this, I believe we need to take a moment to review its history and use. Throughout the ages salt has been used as a sterilizing agent to effectively treat and heal open wounds, while preventing pathogens from entering in and causing disease. Like the work of the Spirit, He is the salt that sanctifies our hearts to be free from sin and render its ill effects. Over the centuries this little mineral was effective to preserve the quality and nature of many local goods, so that one could ship and store quality items for an extended period. These attributes are to be evident throughout our daily lives, sprinkled like salt and thus preserving the goodness of God and restraining evil.

Salt: Can be an agent used to purify or cleanse, thereby bringing impurities to the surface so that they can be dealt with and removed. Although salt appears minuet, it is a key ingredient that is needed to add, giving it a robust flavour.

The Bowl: Is a vessel that is crafted in the Potter’s hands. The bowl represents the temple of our beings to carry the pure nature of salt in our own lives.

Monarch: Represents transformation and new life. This is a reminder that we are to represent Christ in the world, a carrier of “the salt” at work within us.

Blueberries: Often can signify modesty, as berries can be found hidden under a covering of leaves. They also represent gentleness and sincerity, such as how we are to be in our posture and approach to others.

Berries are rich and vibrant in colour, which embody the evidence of Christ at work. They also signify authenticity and character that has been made mature. One may note that berries and salt are similar in function, in that they both act as agents to heal and aid in recovery.

As you reflect on this painting, I pray your new year is filled with abundant fruit, being purified from the past season and bringing life into the NEW.   

-Mindi Oaten Art

Personally, this painting holds a specific meaning for me. Because I live in Canada, I felt the need to share a message of encouragement and speak a fresh breath of hope into our nation. Although this can be picked up and received globally, I believe Canada will be a forerunner in ushering in peace, unity, grace, and healing unto the nations. I believe God has called Canada to be a voice, take a position of authority and leadership. Canadians have an assignment and can no longer take the backseat in watching others lead. May we agree and pray together for believers to be a people of prayer, boldness, humility and courage.

The Grey Jay: Represents qualities of faithfulness, courage, and sovereign protection. These birds are known to guard over one’s territory (birds that can be known as the watchmen), bringing about a word of warning.

Arrows: Often symbolize peace, however they are not simply characterized as being the “peacemakers.”Arrows can be used as tactical weapon that offer protection, safety, strategy and of course accuracy. People who use arrows to hunt have developed the fruit of patience, to wait in hiding for the appropriate time to advance.

Maple Leaf: Is the National symbol of Canada. It represents unity, healing, and peace. The leaf also marks a seasonal change that is in tune with the Spirit, that will bring fresh color to change the surroundings of an atmosphere.

-Mindi Oaten Art

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14, KJV.

“And he said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under a basket, or under a bed, and not on a stand? For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light” (Mark 4:21-22, ESV).

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Throughout the gospels Jesus used parables to illustrate the hidden mysteries of the Kingdom to come, but this precious truth was not revealed to all. Jesus spoke in parables, that used simple teachings to uncover profound truths. For it was the little childrenthat Jesus used for His disciples become like. “Verily I say unto you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein” (Luke 18:17, KJV). When I think of a young child, I am reminded of their innate joy and ability to both trust and forgive. Children carry qualities of innocence, humility, and of course great faith. All characteristics that allow for God to bring spiritual discernment and a broader understanding to. “But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty” (1 Corinthians 1:27, NKJV).

In the parable of the lampstand, Jesus was speaking to an audience (during a time) who valued the use and purpose of an oil lamp. These types of lamps were not simply used as means of décor, only to be stationed at a bedside table. Instead, they were formed from clay and carried throughout the house. These lamps used costly and pure oils to fan a flame and heat a home. Anders states, that during the first century in the middle east “people used very small oil lamps which could easily fit under a small bowl. But the idea of lighting a lamp and putting it under a bowl is absurd. Not only would it be a waste of light, but it would also be a waste of oil” (Noren, Anders. Truth Applied, 2021). Similarly, just like the lamp followers of Jesus should be bold and open to profess their faith. Thus, contending for the oil to keep burning and shinning bright for all to see your “good works,” so that all can bring glory to your Father in Heaven. Our lives bare witness when we put into practice what scripture teaches, such as: pray without ceasing, give generously, forgive without reproach, love unconditionally, bearing one another’s burdens etc.

Lastly in the gospel of Mark 4, the parable of the lampstand takes on a different angle and heeds a warning to believers: “For nothing is hidden except to be made manifest; nor is anything secret except to come to light.” This is a reminder for our need to take account, knowing that how we live will reap consequences, and what we do in “secret” will be made known. “The word “secret” (musterion) can be translated to mean mystery, and not commonly known truth. Instead, it refers to God’s truth that was previously hidden but now has been revealed” (Stott, Jeff. Mark 4:21-25: Parable of the Lamp, 2020). I also appreciate what Jeff Stott stated, “a lamp doesn’t try to expose sin. It naturally reveals what’s in the room. It shows what’s in the darkness. As you live for God and as you share His Word you will naturally expose sin. You will reveal what is in the darkness” (Stott, 2020). Just as the Word convicts us of sin in our own lives, the truth provides for the change that is needed to turn. As we know, believers cannot shine in the flesh, but through His indwelling Spirit that captivates and transforms our inner being to reflect Him. 

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The Oil: The Oil is symbolic to our time spent in the Presence of the Holy Spirit.It is practice and discipline that must be maintained. The Oil is refreshed and purified when we are in communion with Him. For we cannot reflect His light if we are not refined and renewed with the new oil.

The Basket: Baskets are often used to hold or carry items. However, in this case, they held a negative connotation. The basket in this parable was used to snuff out the light. Thereby limiting one’s influence or even shortening one’s lifespan to be effective for the Kingdom. To combat this threat, believers need to be aware of their own baskets that could be limiting their witness. These basket coverings act as weapons and try to short circuit one’s assignment through the use of disappointment, weariness, spiritual attacks, people etc.

The Light: Jesus is our representation and beholder of the light. He is the light and the oil. However, he has commissioned his sons and daughters to be salt and light in the world and represent Him. 

The Stand: Stands were needed in times of old, so that light could illuminate an entire room. Similarly, one’s faith must stand firm, proving to be true and tested in all seasons. Not only must we build strength, but we must continue to stand firm. Believers must occupy all positions of high and low regard, never to chase a title but simply to spread the name of Jesus and bring others to Him.

~Mindi Oaten Art

 References:

       Randy, Bushey. Parables: To Enlighten, to conceal. 2016.

https://bethelnorthbay.com/2016/08/29/parables-enlighten-conceal/

      Jeff, Stott. Mark 4:21-25: The Parable of the Lamp. Truth Applied, 2020.

https://truthappliedjs.com/mark-421-25-parable-of-the-lamp/

Come Up Higher 

(from the "Garments of Praise: Mantled to Reign" collection)

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This painting represents the fulfillment and great commissioning of Jesus.  The title “Come Up Higher,” illustrates the completed work of “His Anointed." Isaiah 61 and Ephesians 2 were scriptures that the artist used to both frame the message of her work. Her desire was to capture the essence of our hope-filled invitation, to rule and reign with Christ.

The Hebrew translation of the word Messiah literally means, “anointed ones.” In biblical times, people in positions of kingship and royalty were often given these elective titles. Now being grafted into the vine of Christ Himself, believers have this heavenly citizenship and are also called “the anointed ones.” Thus, Believers radiate glimmers of His light (in various colours and shades), in order to displace darkness and thereby reign in truth, justice, and righteousness while on the earth. The anointed are to occupy and take up residence in different areas of influence while on the earth. However, this is to be forever distinguished from our true Messiah, that is “The Christ.” Jesus, who mediates and responds as our chief cornerstone, and who gifts His beloved with mantles to reign by His blood. Our objective as His followers is to pursue the process of sanctification. That is for the renewal of the heart and mind to be transformed into His image (Rom. 12:2). A journey that Paul compared to being crushed, beaten, perplexed, afflicted, and bruised. This is often not a road that is characterized as lilies and sunshine, but rather is an uphill climb of wilderness seasons and sufferings. It is obvious that the Lord cares little about our comfort, and more about the condition of our hearts. His desire is that we would tried and proven worthy, presented without spot or blemish (The Olive & Us).  

 “(…) As His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue”  (2 Peter 1:3, NKJV).

The Crown of Thorns:

Is symbolic to the suffering that Jesus bore.

It is a reminder of what He endured, so that as His disciples we can become co-laborers with Him. For this is our priestly assignment, to rule and to reign with His Spirit: “On earth as it is in heaven.”

The Olive Branch:

Is a representation of the Lord’s joy, sovereignty, peace, and delight over His people. Specifically, the oil that is pressed from an Olive tree must be beat and shaken to produce fine quality oil. The process requires chastisement for refinement. Similarly to those who are in the faith, one must surrender to His Lordship to behold the first fruits of His righteousness.

"The Hebrew word for “olive tree” is es shemen, which literally means ‘tree of oil.” It is from a primitive root meaning “to shine.” It means “richness, anointing, fat, fruitful, oil, ointment, olive.” It is related to the word shemesh, “to be brilliant,” and which also is the Hebrew word for the “sun,” that brightly shining orb in the sky" (Dankenbring, 2018).

The Color Gold & Storm Clouds:

The gold flecks in the painting are to display the stark difference between darkness and light.

The storm clouds mirror our present trials and hardships while on the earth. This contrast serves as a reminder that even amid sorrow, one can remain in the splendor and comfort of His Spirit, to come up higher and trust Him.

The gold in this picture asks the viewer to seek the imperishable things of His Kingdom, and to come away with Him. “Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold” (Psalm 119:127, KJV).

Robed in White:

Jesus our intercessor, His hand stretched out to offer companionship and deliverance from our foes. 

We can be confident that He is already praying in the Spirit on our behalf.    As we weep, He weeps.

The Savior of the world bends down low to meet with us. One on one. He is personal and sincere. All dressed in white, his garment reflects a motive that is first pure and upright. The Lord desires to cover over us and illuminate our steps. His gentle embrace acts as a shield and strong tower; a safe place for remaining hidden.

Until Unity:

This painting of "The Christ" serves as the cornerstone to all the other paintings in this series. And although it can easily stand on its own, the beauty of His great commission was to include His creation to play a part in the story and carry forth His will. 

What an honour, that as believers we can be entrusted and serve alongside Him! However, in order to fulfill the Great Commission, we address every entanglement that seeks to divide, and run in such a manner that is worthy to represent His name and calling. We must walk in complete humility so that we can stand in perfect unity. Let us admonish one another, not allowing for compromise, but covering over each-others shortcomings in oneness and love.

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments” (Psalm 133:1-2, KJV).

~

Tanya J. McCormack

Works Cited

     Dankenbring, William F. Biblical Mystery of the Olive Tree., 2018. olyvenbosh.co.za

     Dakenbring, W. The Olive in Us., 2018. olyvenbosh.co.za

"Simple Ingredients" fine art print

"He spoke another parable to them: The kingdom of the heavens is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal until it had been all leavened" (Matthew 13:33, DARBY).

A little leaven [a slight inclination to error, or a few false teachers] leavens the whole batch [it perverts the concept of faith and misleads the church]" (Galatians 5:9, AMP).

"Your boasting [is] not good. Do ye not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, according as ye are unleavened. For also our passover, Christ, has been sacrificed; So that let us celebrate the feast, not with old leaven, nor with leaven of malice and wickedness, but with unleavened [bread] of sincerity and truth" (1 Corinthians 5:6-8, DARBY).

As we can see, Scripture uses the metaphor "to leaven" more than once to teach His disciples a practical lesson on outcome. Whether the result is found to be fruitful or destructive, the reality is, this little single cell microorganism changes the composition of its entirety. 

Moreover what I found to be even more profound, is how Scripture illustrates the process of leavening to be used for both good or evil. Only time will tell however, what fruit springs forth."Ye shall know them by their fruits" (Matt. 7:16, KJV). This is why the body of believers need to be so grounded in the Word: So that they may be able to test and approve what is truth, against a backdrop of deceit. For even a little compromise will corrupt the sum of its parts. Just as Paul had warned, "Do ye not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump?" 

Holy Spirit, I ask that you would help your people discern. That those who are known by you would grow in the knowledge of your truth, and will not fall prey to the lies of the accuser. May we be used mightily for your Kingdom and bring glory to your name. You are worthy.

~ written by Tanya MCCormack