Mother of Humanity

Technique & Style

Digital illustration, Figurative

Figures

Eve

Notes

Chemical engineering major, BYU. Artist statement: "For Eve, I was frustrated with the way she was shown to me growing up: as a blonde white woman. I decided to go back to the beginning, where the first humans came from: Africa. I wanted to portray her with a darker skin tone in hopes of going against the stigma that dark skin is inferior. I did this to highlight its less appreciated beauty and provide more representation in church artwork. I hope that darker skin tones can be celebrated more often to make everyone feel comfortable with themselves and their God-created bodies. I also incorporated texture on her skin that is inspired by African scarification practices that date back to 8000 B.C. to connect Eve with cultural elements from her area. Eve is the epitome of womanhood and femininity—the first woman. I also wanted to give Eve shorter hair in order to show that femininity does not depend on modern societal beauty standards. I also incorporated lots of yellow flowers and highlights to show how radiant and holy the woman is from whom we all descended. The flowers also echoed femininity and the Garden of Eden. I do not claim to know what Eve looks like or from exactly which culture she comes from. As I scoured the Book of Mormon studying her appearances, no concrete details were given. However, I think that my portrayal of her is more inclusive and based on more accurate historical information than the blonde portraits of the mother of humanity. As I delved into the scriptures in search of information about the Mother of All Living, I became more appreciative of her vital roles in the scriptures. Doing so helped me connect with my divine worth as a daughter of God. I grew my testimony on the value of individuals in Heavenly Father’s plan, which motivates me to not undermine my own contributions to the Gospel’s growth. I used this piece to escape my artistic comfort zone and learn digital art. "

Exhibition History:

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