The Sermon on the Mount (Mt 5:2-12) has stirred many hearts because it is in Jesus' words. I can imagine being in the multitude seated on the hillside listening to His radically different message of love. This painting is of a statue found outside the Mormon Tabernacle. The classic use of trompe l'oiel has always fascinated me since I first saw photos of the Sistine Chapel 40 years ago. I chose to paint this image because of the slight furrow in Christ's brow, showing concern and empathy for our struggles here on earth. My use of scripture in every painting I do is quite evident in Beatitudes. The starting sketch of purple and turquoise is still visible as well, overlaid with layers of acrylic and clear washes, and punctuated with ink. The tiny bursts of crimson in the background are meant to represent the blood Christ shed for our sins.