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"A Lamp on a Stand" - 16 x 20 inches acrylic on canvas
Painted for my Collectors Club, November 2021
“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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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 shining 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.
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 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 can act as a weapon to short circuit one’s assignment.
The Light:
Jesus is our representation and beholder of the light. He is the light and the oil. However, he has commissioned us to be salt and light as ambassadors of 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 occupy positions of high and low regard, never to chase a title but simply to spread the name of Jesus and bring others to Him.
Original artwork, acrylic on stretched canvas. Wrapped edges are painted white. Adding a beautiful custom frame will give your new painting added elegance, but is not necessary if you prefer the raw edge look.
Mindi’s fine art canvas prints are reproductions of her original paintings printed on artist-quality canvas. Sizes vary by artwork, from smaller pieces to larger statement sizes. Unless the product option specifically says Stretched Canvas Print, canvas prints are shipped unstretched.
Unstretched canvas prints can be framed, mounted, or professionally stretched by your local framer. Because each artwork has its own proportions, available sizes vary; order from the size and format shown on the individual product page.
Need help choosing a size or format? Contact Mindi Oaten Art or visit the Frequently Asked Questions.
A Stretched Canvas Print is a fine art canvas print stretched over an internal support frame, creating a ready-to-display presentation without first visiting a framer. It can be hung as-is or placed inside a decorative outer frame.
Stretched canvas sizes vary by artwork. If the size you need is not listed, contact the studio to ask whether a custom stretched size is available.
Mindi Oaten Art may be able to create an approved custom fine art canvas print in a size not listed on the product page. Custom print orders are quoted individually based on the artwork, final dimensions, proportions, and finishing requirements.
Custom sizes must respect the proportions of the original painting, and some dimensions may require cropping. The studio will confirm what works visually before the order is finalized.
For a custom print size, contact Mindi Oaten Art. For an entirely new original artwork, visit the Custom Painting & Commission page. You can also review the FAQ.
Original paintings on canvas are one-of-a-kind works created by Mindi. Many are acrylic on canvas; the exact medium and dimensions are listed on each product page. Purchasing an original means purchasing the physical original artwork, not a reproduction.
Display original canvas paintings indoors in a stable environment, away from prolonged direct sunlight, fireplaces, heating vents, bathrooms, and major humidity or temperature changes. Dust gently with a clean, soft, dry cloth or artist’s brush; never use water, sprays, solvents, or household cleaners on the painted surface.
Framing varies by piece. Some paintings can be displayed unframed, while others may suit a floating or traditional frame. Unless the listing says otherwise, framing is not included. Browse available Original Paintings or contact the studio with a framing or care question.
Some original works on paper include watercolour and other paper-based pieces; the exact medium is identified on the product page. For long-term preservation, frame them behind glass or acrylic using archival, acid-free matting and backing, with UV-protective glazing when possible.
Keep paper originals away from direct sunlight and high humidity, and do not let the painted surface touch standard glass directly; use a mat or spacer for separation.
For framing advice, contact Mindi Oaten Art. Additional ordering information is available in the FAQ.
Displaying: keep artwork indoors and away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, smoke, and rapid temperature changes.
Handling: use clean, dry hands and hold prints or originals by the edges whenever possible. Support larger pieces evenly with two hands.
Cleaning: use only a soft, dry cloth or clean artist’s brush. Do not apply water, glass cleaner, oils, sprays, or household cleaners directly to printed or painted surfaces.
Framing: archival, acid-free materials and UV-protective glazing are recommended for works on paper and can also help protect fine art prints. Canvas works should be framed or stretched appropriately for the specific piece.
For a specific artwork, custom size, framing choice, or care concern, contact Mindi Oaten Art. You can also visit the Frequently Asked Questions or learn about commissioning a custom painting.
