Artistic journey leads Tampa Bay man to experience the rich tapestry of biblical stories

A remarkable decades-long journey for one Tampa Bay artist has led him to experience the rich tapestry of biblical stories and more.

John Briggs was commissioned to create biblical paintings, depicting stories like Moses with the Ten Commandments and the transfiguration of Christ.

For Briggs, art has always been a part of his life. "I started long before I was 10-years-old, but I think I really concentrated at the age of 10," said Briggs. 

John Briggs was commissioned to create biblical paintings, depicting stories like Moses with the Ten Commandments and the transfiguration of Christ.

The backstory:

Growing up in Hamilton, Ohio, his early days were filled with sketches on butcher paper at his father's small grocery store. 

"I just kind of always drew.," said Briggs. "And it was a way to occupy my time while they were working in a store."

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His interest grew after a teacher gifted him a watercolor set that opened up a world of creativity. 

"I just love paint from the very beginning. It was just so very magical about spreading paint," Briggs explained. 

John Briggs was commissioned to create biblical paintings, depicting stories like Moses with the Ten Commandments and the transfiguration of Christ.

While Briggs's work spans many styles, his figurative painting and landscapes hold a special place in his heart. 

"I'm basically a realist in a lot of ways, but I seem to have gone into some surrealism and things that are beyond just the outward appearance of realism," said Briggs. "So I'm a figurative painter, a lot of times figures within my work." 

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John's journey also led him to sacred spaces like the Queen of Peace Church in Plant City

"I like it. I love it. Yeah. I mean, you couldn't paint this long. Not like it. I don't see how you could be a painter and not enjoy the spreading of paint," Briggs said. 

Briggs's journey is a testament that art not only reflects the world but can also inspire change.

One of Briggs's late

The Source: Information for this story was gathered by FOX 13's Mark Wilson and Bryan Gray.

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