Teancum’s Decision

Technique & Style

Abstract, Mixed media

Figures

Teancum

Symbols

spear

Notes

Mechanical Engineering major, BYU. Artist statement: "I chose to represent Teancum with origami, an art form that restricts the artist to only fold a single, uncut square of paper (this model was folded from a 24" square). I chose this subject because I felt that origami could simultaneously communicate the strength that Teancum embodied, as well as the mortal fragility he later came to face. Some use the story of Teancum to demonstrate how anger leads us to make poor decisions, but I like to pull from it the example of a man who would stop at nothing to destroy evil wherever it was found. Teancum did not hesitate to do what he believed had to be done to protect his people, and I greatly admire that. The japanese art of paper folding is highly restrictive, in that it forces the designer to consider the entire model holistically before beginning the folding process. In designing this model, I did my best to merge the more eastern-leaning, Japanese art style of origami with how I imagine the ancient Mesoamerican Nephites would have appeared. This is communicated through the detailing in the model's arms, legs, and head, as well as his skirt and his spear. "

Awards

Honorable Mention 2023 BYU Book of Mormon Art Contest.

Exhibition History:

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