Why in the world is Baby Jesus holding a pomegranate? And what are those four strange creatures surrounding Him? This talk is a quick primer on symbols in fine art. We will look at a selection of master paintings, identify the symbolic elements, and discuss how they enrich not only the artwork, but how we view the entire creation.

Biblical symbols are the grammar of creation, how God built the world, how He reveals Himself, how humans mature, and how culture is formed. Reading symbols well is part of participating faithfully in God’s cosmic order.

Bethany Jones Wilkins was born in Guatemala and grew up on a farm in northern Idaho to ex-hippie parents who instilled in her a love for the Lord and His creation. She graduated salutatorian from Logos School (1998), attended college in Canada and later finished her Bachelor’s of Arts degree with honors at the University of Idaho. She has been teaching for over 25 years, including time as a student missionary in Guatemala and instructing at Logos Teacher Training. Currently, she is the director of Geneva Academy’s fine art program, teaches pre-k through twelfth grade studio art and art history, private lessons and Spanish.

Lover of cloud gazing, good books, dirt and what grows out of it, theological conversations, family and friends, she has delighted in creating artwork her whole life and gives thanks to God for the opportunity to help students do the same.

She is married to Remy, a teacher and author. Together they have five sons, are members of Church of the Redeemer in West Monroe and reside at Milk&Honey, a garden paradise in the process of being tamed.