Growing Fruit: A Botanical Study of the Fruit of the Spirit

Growing Fruit: a Botanical Study of the Fruit of the Spirit features the original artwork of Barb Stanford and Christopher Grundy’s “Fruit of the Spirit” song. Grundy has attached a physical fruit to each fruit of the Spirit and it is these delicious fruits that Barb has drawn. 

Each fruit is drawn in the style of Botanical Illustration, which combines different stages of the plant’s growth cycle together in one composition.

The illustrations are drawn on paper lunch bags, reminding us to connect these fruits, not just theoretically, but also culinarily. That is, fruit is nourishing and tastes delicious! 

Reflections on the Fruit of the Spirit by Artist Barb Stanford

In Psalm 139:13, we are told that God created and formed all the intricate, complex parts of our bodies.  I believe that the same is true of all of God’s creative work, of the physical fruit we eat, as well as the spiritual fruit God produces in us.

Studying and observing the details of each fruit, illustrates the intricate, careful, purposeful hand of God as each fruit grows.

When seeds are planted, the growth begins. Some plants close to the ground, some on vines, and others on trees. The roots of each go down to the source of water and nourishment, as God provides.  The plant matures, the leaves emerge, and soon after the flower; the beautiful, delicate, signs of the fruit to come.  Some blossoms are subtle, some bright and flashy, and others small and elegant.

The developing fruit will come: refreshing, nourishing, sweet, juicy, aromatic, wonderful fruit for us to enjoy!  Within the fruit are the seeds. artfully arrayed: a ring, a star, a pit, protected within the fruit. Each seed is filled with the DNA for more fruit to come!  As it is planted near to its source of nourishment, it will grow, like the tree mentioned in Psalm 1:3, “planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season.”

Bard Stanford

Artist Bio:

    Barb Stanford uses calligraphy, colored pencil, acrylic and oil paints to express, clarify, and illustrate the truths and beauty of life. Barb has always found a home for art in the church. In taking notes, illustrations to enhance the Bible Quiz team, and encouragement for teens artists. Recently, Barb painted daily for Advent, and then Lent, posting on Instagram and Facebook, and it was appreciated by many.  Now living in St. Louis, Barb has been active in artwork to support the themes and messages in her church at Maplewood UMC.  

     When Barb’s children were in school, she started embellishing their lunch bags, making a picture of their names, depending on the season, colors, and events of the day.  She became well-known for this daily loving  “frivolous” art for her kids and husband. 

Barb says, “I truly believe that art makes life so much better!”