Nephi’s Family Flees Into the Wilderness

Technique & Style

Figurative, Painting

Figures

Nephites

Symbols

mountain, staff

Animals

lamb

Notes

Pre-illustration major, BYU. Artist statement: "In this painting, you will see a scene depicting Nephi's family fleeing into the wilderness to escape Nephi's vengeful brothers. After their father Lehi passed away, Laman and Lemuel became angry with Nephi and sought to take away his life. The Lord warned Nephi of his brother's plan and told him to take his family and flee into the wilderness to escape. In my opinion, some of the most underrepresented figures in the Book of Mormon are in Nephi’s own family. His wife, sisters, and possible daughters are hardly mentioned, and we never learn their names. It’s important to me that even though we don’t know their names, we still should remember how they sacrificed so much, and had such incredible faith to once again travel into the wilderness to obey God’s commandments. Because of this, I chose to showcase these members of Nephi’s family in my painting. In this scene, you’ll see Nephi’s wife lead her children alongside Nephi’s sisters and their children. Because most of them are never mentioned in the Book of Mormon, I had to take artistic liberty to include all of these faithful children of God. My favorite detail I added to this piece was the white lamb walking alongside them. This represents Jesus Christ, and how he remained by their side as they faithfully fled into the wilderness. I added it to remind us that when we follow Him, He will always stand and walk beside us. This piece is 12 x 16” and was created with acrylic paints."

Exhibition History:

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