The Family of Nephi

Technique & Style

Figurative, Painting

Figures

Nephi, Nephi's child, Nephi's wife

Notes

Artist statement: "The untold stories of faith and fortitude within Nephi’s immediate family deeply intrigue me; who was Nephi’s wife, and how would she describe her experience traveling in the wilderness and wrestling with the fear and pain surrounding Nephi's constant—and often violent—contentions with his brothers? She was nameless, yet incredibly significant. Her journey of faith, as well as each of their children’s journeys, was noteworthy and connected to Nephi’s. I tried to portray the intense emotions they felt when Nephi was brutally tied to the ship. In 1 Nephi 18:19, we learn that 'her tears and prayers, and also [her] children’s [tears and prayers] did not soften the hearts of [Laman and Lemuel],' and I imagine they felt keenly their powerlessness in those days before Nephi’s suffering was ended. Despite this, and despite being separated from their husband and father, they came together and turned to the Lord. Ultimately, it was their combined faith that called down the powers of heaven to help Nephi. I too feel powerless and unseen oftentimes in my life, and so maybe that's why her nameless journey sticks with me. When you look at this painting, I ask you to wonder for a moment about their individual stories. Tell their story and give a name to the nameless."

Commissioned Status

Submitted to the 2025 Book of Mormon Art Contest

Church Name

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints