Alderman’s The Storm gives observers a perspective of Jesus Christ’s life during the times of the gospels in the New Testament of the Holy Bible. The work is significant for the artist’s excellent usage of light and shading. Like religious art from other time periods, Alderman’s The Storm features a bright sun, representing God, and emphases Jesus’ communication with God. The artist is able to achieve this perfect image by juxtaposing the bright light of the sun against the darkness of the clouds in the sky, thus revealing God to Jesus as he kneels on a rock below.
The artist presents Jesus Christ with realistic expression and great detail. Notice the detail in the wrinkles in Jesus’ clothes, the definition in his hands and posture, the facial expression and gazing eyes toward the light. The art displays a remarkable image that captivates observers by highlighting the direct communication between Jesus and God (as the light).