ECVA - Ruth Tietjen Councell - Praying the Hours

~ CONTRIBUTING ARTISTS ~

Mel Ahlborn 1 · Julie Christian Bender 1 2 3 · Barbara D. Bennett 1 2 · Sally Brower 1 2 3 · Alisa E. Clark 1 2 3 · Ruth Tietjen Councell 1 2 3 · Anne Cameron Cutri 1 2 3 · Elizabeth de Sherbinin 1 · Ann James Massey 1 · Joy Jennings 1 2 3 · Chris Odom 1 2 3 · Margaret Adams Parker 1 2 3 · Heather Sisk 1 · Claudia Smith 1 · Jeanne H. Weaver 1 · Marion Williams 1

Ruth Tietjen Councell

Rest

Watercolor, Ink, Handmade paper

Artist Statement: From Daily Devotions for Individuals and Families, the short version of Noonday Prayer, page 138 in the Book of Common Prayer
“In returning and rest we shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be our strength.” Isaiah 30:13

This verse may describe physical rest, but it also seems to be referring to resting one’s mind. To stop, whether at noon, or at another time of day, and to rest or to empty one’s mind in prayer or meditation, in contemplation, centering, or mindful awareness, or simply stillness, is a powerful way to receive new strength for the journey.

Bio: Ruth Tietjen Councell has worked in a variety of media over the years, including children’s book illustration, graphic design, botanical art, liturgical hangings, illuminated letters, and oil and watercolor painting. She studied art at the University of Redlands (California), and at UC Santa Barbara. She also studied Botanical Art at the Morton Arboretum in Illinois, and at the New York Botanical Garden in NY City. She taught art for a time at Trinity Episcopal Academy in Trenton, New Jersey, and at the Arts Council of Princeton for 13 years. Ruth currently lives in Kalamazoo, Michigan where she enjoys making art with her granddaughter.