Sariah Mourning in the Wilderness

Technique & Style

Figurative, Painting

Figures

Sariah

Symbols

river, tent

Notes

Mathematics major, BYU. Artist statement: "In 1 Nephi 5: 1-8 Sariah's sons have yet to return from Jerusalem after trying to retrieve the plates of brass. Sariah is overwhelmed with fear and confusion as she is worried for the safety of her sons but also trying to obey and trust this commandment from God. When I read this, I do not imagine Sariah murmuring like Laman and Lemuel and being unfaithful. Rather I see her as a mother who has just watched her children leave on a dangerous journey and a wife who has supported her husband's visions and is finally expressing how hard it has all been. If Lehi and Sariah's society and traditions were similar to others throughout history, the woman's big focus was on taking care of a family and keeping a home. Now both of these things have been frustrated for Sariah. Even before they left, the town was mocking and threating her husband. At this point Sariah had endured so much and she simply felt overwhelmed and emotional. This story of a complex woman along with the phrase in Enos 1:10 which states “And while I was thus struggling in the spirit…” are what inspired my painting. Sometimes it does take a lot of struggling to follow the spirit and that is precisely what makes us living, dynamic people. Sariah is a strong Book of Mormon woman whose example of righteous struggle is beautiful and comforting. The medium is oil on canvas. "

Exhibition History:

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