Gift of Water

This reading stood out to Swanson because Jesus is accepting a cup of water from the Samaritan woman at a time when the Jews would have no dealings with the Samaritans. The act of the acceptance of others, and the symbolism of water are both very powerful. Water is necessary for life. It quenches our thirst and refreshes us. It is the first thing we offer to invited guests. It cleans that which is dirty. And, it is used to grow plants and make the earth fruitful. We think of our human family, who do not have water due to climate change, drought, and the infrastructure needed to store water. We need to overcome and look past our prejudices in order to quench our thirst for healing, to communicate with and understand others.

Gift of Water is available individually or together with the two other prints from the Gift Triptych.

Because Swanson printed giclee editions in smaller batches, only those printed during his lifetime are signed by the artist. The remaining prints from the edition are made using the same image he created and approved, but with his signature printed where he would have signed them.