Sanctuary at Lake Alice

Some places just feel sacred the moment you step into them. Lake Alice and the Baughman Center at the University of Florida are like that—a peaceful corner where heaven seems to touch earth. I created this painting as a gift for two dear campus ministers who spent over a decade pouring into students here, including me. But this isn’t just their story—it’s a shared one. So many people have encountered God’s presence at this very spot. The bench, the chapel, even the squirrel and birds hold layers of meaning. Whether you're an alum, a believer, or simply drawn to beauty with purpose, this piece invites you to carry that peace into your own space.

Some places instantly feel holy. The moment you arrive, the air softens and your spirit becomes still. The world slows, and peace settles deeply within. You sense heaven is near, gently touching earth. Lake Alice and the Baughman Center at the University of Florida hold that sacred presence. This art was born from that feeling of peace and divine nearness. It captures the memory of stillness that lingers there. The painting honors the beauty, light, and presence that shape this quiet corner of campus.

I created this art as a gift for two beloved campus ministers. They spent over a decade serving students faithfully and humbly. Their ministry was gentle, rooted in prayer, and full of grace. Each conversation they shared planted seeds of hope and faith.

While painting, I realized the story stretched far beyond their service. This art belongs to every person who encountered God at Lake Alice. It honors countless prayers whispered on the bench near the water. It celebrates those quiet moments when souls found rest under the trees.

The composition of this art mirrors that sacred story. In the foreground sits a wooden bench, simple yet full of meaning. It represents reflection, conversation, and deep connection with God. Beyond it lies the calm lake, reflecting the vast Florida sky. The Baughman Center rises nearby, filled with warm light.

Each detail carries spiritual significance. The birds in flight symbolize freedom and praise. The squirrel on the path represents persistence and small joys. The glimmering water speaks of renewal and spiritual cleansing. Together, these images invite stillness and reflection.

When I began this art, I prayed the colors would speak peace. Soft greens blend with golds and blues, forming a gentle palette of serenity. The lake glows with subtle light, like faith flickering through reflection. The chapel shines with a warm glow that feels divine.

The hues are intentional, symbolizing the calm strength of God’s presence. Every brushstroke became a prayer for gratitude and rest. This art reflects not only a place but a posture of the soul. It invites you to pause, breathe, and remember God’s closeness.

As a student, I often visited Lake Alice seeking clarity and peace. The bench became my sanctuary during uncertain days. I watched sunlight dance on the water and felt unseen comfort rise within me. God met me there quietly, reminding me of His faithfulness.

The ministers who inspired this art taught me that peace is not accidental. It comes from slowing down to notice God’s hand. The lake and chapel became teachers of stillness and gratitude. Each visit renewed my strength to trust His plan again.

Through this art, I hope to share that same quiet awareness. Even if you have never visited Lake Alice, its peace can reach you. The still water and glowing chapel remind us that God’s presence fills every place. Stillness becomes holy when we invite Him in.

Hang this art in your home, office, or prayer space. Let it become a visual sanctuary of calm and faith. Each time you look at it, take one deep breath. Let that moment remind you that you are safe in His love.

This art speaks to alumni who carry memories of campus life. It touches believers who recognize the peace of God’s creation. It welcomes everyone who seeks beauty with purpose and meaning. Its message is simple yet profound: the sacred is near.

In a world filled with noise, Lake Alice offers a lesson in stillness. The Baughman Center stands as a symbol of reflection and prayer. The water, trees, and sky form a natural cathedral of grace. This piece captures that truth for your heart and home.

May this piece remind you that peace is never lost. It waits for you in quiet places and grateful pauses. The same Spirit who moved across the lake moves in your life today.

Every time you see this work, let it whisper hope and stillness. Let it remind you that heaven often touches earth in ordinary beauty. Lake Alice remains a testimony to the presence that never leaves us.

This piece is more than memory—it is a living invitation to peace. The bench, the chapel, and the shimmering water belong to everyone who believes. Carry their calm into your own story and share that light wherever you go.

When you rest your eyes on this piece, may you hear its silent promise. Stillness is holy. Beauty reveals truth. God is near.