Sarah Paulsen (b. 1977) is an artist, filmmaker and community organizer living in St. Louis, Missouri. She paints from interest in diversity and exploration of her white privilege. Hearing once that “whiteness means not having to think about it” prompted her interest in the circumstance, culture and heritage of her life and the lives of others.

This piece has much happening in design, realism and surrealism. The band of diverse, recognizable architecture, the mountains of clouds and blue rays above and the yellow, brickless road below are as quizzical as they are beautiful. The purple shadow, the dripping horizon line, the geode feature of a layered semi-circle and the realistic people and clothing could bring us to a reconsideration of our times and privilege. This piece could be a portal for our meaning making around humankind and our commandment to love.

This is a complex painting of complex issues. May we honor the mystery of it as we also praise and honor the mystery God will always keep. May our eyes bring us to belief in the beloved community, in cities and all places of sanctuary and promise. May this image help us hope against the hatred and killings of times such as these. Lord, please hear our prayers.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church