What if a painting of a sunflower could help you see God more clearly? Joan Mitchell’s Sunflower III does not give us a realistic image of a flower. Instead, it captures the energy, movement, and life of the sunflower itself. In this 100th episode of Art and Prayer, we explore how abstract art can open a different doorway to contemplation—one where we listen not only with our eyes, but with our whole being.

Use this guide for prayer and contemplation. Read slowly, pausing as needed for silence and reflection.

Opening

Be still, inside and out.

Find a quiet, calm, and relaxed place in mind and body.

Let yourself become ready to speak with God and listen to God.

Draw in a deep breath, and release it.

Reflection on Contemplative Prayer

Many artists love sunflowers. There is a rugged joy in them: radiant, bright, and filled with life. Joan Mitchell’s sunflowers are less like the solid presence of the flower and more like its energy. Perhaps this helps us see God, who is spirit, more clearly through the image.

The sunflower has long drawn people toward thoughts of light and life. Because it turns toward the sun, it can invite us to turn toward God. This is the goal of contemplation: to keep ourselves focused on God, and to follow God throughout the day.

Let us prepare to gaze at this work and open ourselves to what God has for us today.

Text for Reflection

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see.
There’s light for a look at the Savior,
and life more abundant and free.

Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
look full in His wonderful face,
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
in the light of His glory and grace.

Let these words settle in you. Ask the Spirit to draw your attention toward the light of Christ as you pray with the image.

Artwork for Prayerful Reflection

Sunflower III, Joan Mitchell.

As you gaze, let the brushstrokes and colors become a doorway into prayer. Do not hurry to understand the image. Let it invite you to notice what happens within you.

Reflection Questions

What do you notice first as you look at Mitchell’s sunflowers?

What does this depiction capture about sunflowers that a realistic still life might not reveal?

Where do the colors, movement, and brushstrokes draw your attention?

What thoughts or emotions rise in you as you continue to gaze?

How might God be stirring within you through this image?

What message, word, vision, or invitation is God clarifying for you today?

What questions do you want to bring to God about what is arising in you?

What scripture, holy words, or remembered promise comes to mind as you listen?

What would it mean for you to turn toward God’s light throughout this day?

Closing

God of light and life, draw our eyes toward you. Help us listen with our whole being until we hear your stirrings. Let whatever you have spoken remain with us, and keep us turned toward Jesus, in the light of his glory and grace. Amen.