Crafting an Image Worthy of Psalm 23: The Story Behind My New Illustration
This entire collection of apparel and art is rooted in my (attempted) personal practice of memorizing the Psalms as a form of meditation. From the very beginning of my journey, Psalm 23 stood out for its profound spiritual insight and universal comfort.
The imagery throughout the Psalm is so vivid and expressive. It speaks to an intimate relationship with a God who is not only a protector but also a provider—a Good Shepherd who gives shelter and blessing. Psalm 23 is undoubted so popular and familiar to even the most casual of readers because of this richness. My first challenge, of course, is in which verses to focus my attention. After long consideration, I chose, "He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul," for my inspiration.
It speaks to a deep sense of peace. It’s not just about finding water, but still waters—a place of tranquility and safety. It’s a promise of relief that feels spiritual, emotional, and physical all at once, a complete restoration of the soul. Because it holds such a powerful place in so many hearts, I knew that I couldn't launch this collection without an illustration for Psalm 23. It felt essential—a cornerstone piece that I hope brings that same sense of peace and restoration to everyone who sees it.
The First Draft: A Good Idea, But Not the Right One
My initial vector-based concept for the Psalm 23 illustration. It was a good design, but ultimately not the right direction for the brand's core mission.
My initial concept for Psalm 23 was heavily inspired by some of the graphic design work I admire—specifically the clean, vector-based style you often see in modern stickers and branding. I wanted to create an image of calm water in a place that might otherwise feel harsh, conveying a sense of peace and relief. This led me to the idea of a desert oasis: a river flowing into a tranquil pool where a small sheep could find sustenance in an otherwise unwelcoming environment.
I was proud of the execution, and it visually captured the idea of "still waters." But when I stepped back and looked at it something felt off. The truth: while I felt I created a well-made graphic, it wasn't truly mine.
This was a critical learning moment for me. I realized I was so focused on creating a "good design" based on external inspiration that I had drifted from my own unique, character-driven style. It was a good illustration, but it wasn't the right illustration for the story I wanted to tell. And so, with this clearer understanding, I knew I had to start over.
The Turning Point: Finding a New Perspective
After deciding to move on from the vector graphic, my first instinct was to draw what you might expect: a shepherd, a sheep, and a pastoral scene by the water. I created several sketches in my usual style, but they all felt too familiar. I realized I was running the risk of recreating an image that has been done hundreds of times, and I was determined to offer something, hopefully, more personal and unique.
The real breakthrough didn't come from a singular spark, though, but from a literal change in perspective. I asked myself, "What if I change the camera angle?" Instead of looking down at the water, what if the viewer was looking up through it, seeing the world transformed by its refractive, calming effect? This idea opened up a completely new creative path.
This new angle led to a series of fresh sketches and ideas. At first, I drew a shepherd figure standing over a young woman, but it felt a bit ominous, as if death stood over her. Not what, I pretty sure, no person finds comforting or safe. I removed him and focused solely on the young woman leaning over the water experiencing this moment of peace like so many young people I’ve witnessed experience when they unplug and get back into nature. I had her gently touch the water's surface, and that's when the final composition clicked: the viewer would be below the surface, looking up as her touch sends gentle ripples out into the still water.
The final piece is filled with personal symbolism. The lamb at her side represents gentleness of spirit, and the grass alludes to the "green pastures" of the Psalm. The woman’s faint smile as she touches the water is meant to capture that quiet, satisfying moment of her soul being restored. My hope is that when you see this image, you might be able to place yourself in that moment of tranquility and feel that same sense of acceptance and gratitude for the Good Shepherd’s blessings in your life.
The Final Art
And so, after a long and rewarding journey, here is the final illustration: "He Restores My Soul."
A Journey to Still Waters
Looking back, I realize the journey of creating this illustration was a small metaphor for the Psalm itself. The verse "He leads me beside the still waters" implies a path, and the creative process was very much a journey of its own. It had detours and moments of uncertainty, but it was a process of being led, trusting that I would eventually arrive at the right destination not because of who I am, but who my Shepherd is.
In a way, the feeling of satisfaction and peace I felt upon completing the final image was its own form of restoration. It's exciting to now share both the journey and the final artwork with you. My deepest hope is that this illustration resonates with those who are navigating their own life struggles, trusting in that same promise of being led to a place of peace and restoration.
This piece is a cornerstone of my new "First Five" collection, which I'll be using to launch my new online shop. Stay tuned—the Redbubble shop will open as soon as the last few illustrations for the collection are complete!
