Fountain of Righteousness

Technique & Style

Figurative, Painting

Figures

None

Symbols

fountain, water

Notes

Dance major, BYU. Artist statement: "I was inspired to paint this fountain after reading the 8th chapter of Ether. It talks about the overthrow of freedom and the wickedness that comes from greed and selfishness. Our world is continually becoming full of greed and selfish acts are common. The line between good and evil has become quite blurred. If only the decisions we make in life could be a simple yes or no, righteous or not righteous. Perhaps if we could see the fountain that Moroni wished all would come unto, it would be more possible to be, “persuaded to do good continually.” I wanted to paint this fountain as a visual aid and reminder to all those that see it, to seek after righteousness, to find a real or figurative fountain in the gospel of Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon is, and can be, that fountain. “…that they may… be saved.” (Ether 8:26) This piece is done on a 48x30 inch canvas. I used multiple layers of acrylic paint to represent the complexities of life and also used joint compound for more texture and depth. The shine/metallic colors pull the viewer in by depicting the light and holiness that we can follow/become by seeking a righteous life. I used bright blue for the water as to make it refreshing and inviting, just as a righteous life can be refreshing and inviting in our dark world. The simplicity in only painting the fountain as the represented object, gives the viewer room to interpret that, if one truly seeks after righteousness, it can be plain and obvious to them. The darkness around the fountain provides contrast between the “world” behind it, making it easier for the viewer to see the significance of a “righteous fountain.” It also shows viewers that there is another choice in life and that it is close and always present."

Exhibition History:

• Submitted to the 2023 BYU Book of Mormon Art Contest.