PRESTON, Idaho-- Brent Borup, an oil painter based in Preston, Idaho, never realized the connection he could have with Jesus Christ through painting.
Borup said he first discovered he could make a living as an artist when he was a child, looking at the back of a cereal box.
“I noticed that every Cheerio on the printed box was like the exact same Cheerio, the little grains. And I saw it wasn't just a photo on a box of Cheerios. It was designed,” Borup said. “Oh, an artist did that. I can have a job as an artist.”
Today, Borup runs a fine art business alongside his wife, Jeanette, in their studio in Preston.
“I think we're a really good team,” he said. “Sometimes I kind of have a hard time starting a painting. So, after we have it planned out, which I love planning it out, but actually starting the oil painting, my wife loves doing that. So, it was great that she started it and then I jumped in and worked on a bit and then she would jump in and work on a bit. I think it's a great way to do it. It works for us.”
Borup primarily paints portraits of Jesus Christ.
“I believe He was a real person. He really does have a hairstyle, does have a mortal body. I guess I try to focus more on how He feels, you know, how His eyes are accepting and have the spirit,” Borup said.
Painting Christ over the years has helped deepen Borup’s faith.
“I find when you're painting Jesus, focusing on Him every day. Becoming closer to Christ is just a natural byproduct without trying. I guess I was trying without realizing it,” Borup said.
Borup said he hopes those who view his artwork will also feel closer to Christ.
“That's why I've wanted to paint Him as a person. That He really is real. He really does want a connection with you,” he said.
Going forward, Borup plans to shift from portraits of Christ to paintings that depict biblical stories. He and Jeanette are also releasing a calendar for the upcoming year along with a painting they worked on together.
To view or purchase the Borup’s art, visit theirwebsite.
To learn more about Borup’s art listen to the full interview on BYU-Idaho Radio’s podcast on Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.