Modern Christian Art: My Encounter with "Jesus Mugshot"

An Unexpected Gallery Visit

A couple years ago, I was wandering around downtown Kerrville, TX when the colorful, abstract art pieces in the window of River's Edge Gallery caught my eye. Drawn in by the vibrant display, I entered and was greeted first by a friendly dog—the official gallery welcomer—before meeting Mike Wilson, the artist and owner himself.

Mike graciously invited me to explore, take pictures, and ask questions. As I moved through the space, something familiar yet unexpected caught my attention: an image resembling Jesus or a Christian apostle illuminated on a distant wall. Drawing closer, I realized it was styled as a mugshot—complete with height markings (showing "Jesus" at about 5'11") and an identification sign reading "INRI, #777-GGG."

"Jesus Mugshot" by Mike Wilson, River's Edge Gallery, Kerrville, TX

Art That Demands a Response

My initial reaction was complicated—I found myself simultaneously captivated and repulsed by the symbolism. This, I realized, is the essence of powerful modern Christian art: it evokes strong reactions and lingers in the mind long after viewing. I took the picture and would notice it every time I swiped through my images.

The image stayed with me in my mind's eye and on my phone for months. Then, somehow, I lost many of my images when I purchased a new phone. No problem, I thought, I'll just take another one.

I decided to return to River's Edge Gallery to photograph the painting and learn more about Wilson's intentions in creating this contemporary interpretation of the Supreme Ultimate Creator.

Disappointment and Grace

When I returned, I barely recognized Mike with his longer hair and beard. I explained that I had come specifically to photograph the Jesus Mugshot and discuss its meaning. To my shock, he replied, "I retired that series last year." The painting was no longer on display.

My heart deflated like a punctured balloon. Seeing my disappointment, Mike said, "I'll find it in the back and send you a picture of it." True to his word, he later emailed me the image, allowing me to continue my contemplation.

Deeper Reflection on Modern Christian Art

With the digital image before me, I began examining the details more closely. Was Jesus actually 5'11" tall? Would He have created His own sign that read INRI and self-identified as #777 (a perfect number) followed by GGG, perhaps reflecting God in Triune form?

This is what makes modern Christian art so powerful—it challenges our traditional perspectives while reinforcing timeless truths. The more I studied the image, the more I felt convicted of my own sin. Here was Christ, unjustly imprisoned and crucified for my transgressions. Here was the One, in three forms (GGG), who suffered the humiliation of a mugshot by a photographer (me) who isn't worthy of clicking the shutter release.

From Conflict to Conviction

But there He is, over 2000 years later—plus the two years since I first saw this image—reminding me (and all of us) of what He endured "while we were still sinners" (Romans 5:8).

I'm no longer conflicted about my feelings toward this provocative artwork. Instead, I'm convicted of my guilt that required Christ's ultimate sacrifice. As I look at the image now, all I can say is: Thank you, Jesus, for your unconditional love. I believe. I repent. And I pick up my cross and follow You.

This kind of spiritual conviction often comes when we're truly awake to God's presence in everyday moments - much like the divine appointments I discuss in "Why Are We Here?" It's the fruit of a transformed mind that Paul describes in Romans 12.

What About You? 

Have you ever encountered a piece of modern Christian art that initially confused or even disturbed you, only to find it becoming meaningful in unexpected ways? I'd love to hear about your experiences with art that challenged your understanding of faith or spirituality. What contemporary religious images or artistic interpretations have moved you to deeper reflection? Please share in the comments below.

Artist Mike Wilson Featured in Hill Country People Magazine (Sept/Oct 2023)

Note: If you're in the Kerrville area, consider visiting River's Edge Gallery to experience Mike Wilson's thought-provoking modern Christian art for yourself, though this particular series may no longer be on display. Hope you resurrect this series, Mike!

--- *Trace Pirtle is a retired university professor, pilgrim blogger, and founder of Faith in Action Ministry, Texas Hill Country. He writes for Christians who refuse to settle for Sunday morning faith while prayer-walking the narrow path in Kerrville, Texas. Welcome home, pilgrim.