Artist: Leslie Morley 
Title: You Are My Joy
Medium: Original Oil on Canvas
Size: 30 in x 40"
Artist Statement:
As the Great Creator, God takes absolute joy in each of us. He sees us perfectly and lovingly. Christ embraces our differences, and He celebrates every unique soul in our mortal experience and condition. Through these experiences we walk the path of our own distinct and beautiful divinity. In this painting, I wanted to portray the pure joy Christ takes in this boy with Down syndrome. Holding him, seeing him perfectly, and celebrating him as a person and a divine being.  I love the expression of peace on the child’s face cheek to cheek in his Creator’s arms.  Backstory: Smiling, I watched Eric, a six-year old boy with down syndrome, quickly befriend my one year old son, Teddy. I saw joy on both faces as Eric encouraged the toddling Teddy up the stairs. Then, both giggling, they raced down the double slide together.       Teddy fell and his new friend rushed over to where he lay sprawled on the ground. Eric reached out and tenderly took Teddy’s hand. They stayed like this for sometime; sharing in the gentle moment. Then, Eric tentatively tickled Teddy’s tummy and, sharing smiles, they were off to their game again.       I found myself in tears and was struck with a sudden and intense love for this kind-hearted boy. I sensed a glimpse of the Creator's love for the beauty and divinity within him and within each of us.