The Scalping of Zerahemnah

Technique & Style

Abstract, Digital illustration

Figures

Moroni (Captain), Nephites, Zerahemnah

Symbols

armor, blood, club, rock, shield, spear

Notes

Animation Pre-major major, BYU. Artist statement: "In this digital artwork I drew the scene in Alma 44 in which we see how Moroni was able to use strategy and preparation to completely surround a much stronger lamanite army led by Zerahemnah. We learn of the character of Moroni who chose not to kill them but to let them go if they make a promise to return home and not fight the Nephites again. Zerahemnah refused and in the ensuing skirmish ended up running away with less hair. The nephite who had won the fight put his scalp on the end of his sword and used a simile cure that if they refused to make that promise that they too would fall to the earth like Zerahemnah’s hair. After this the remainder of the lamanites chose to make this promise and returned home in peace. This is the first battle where we see Moroni in action. We learn of his prowess as a great military general who put God first, before the shedding of blood. He trusted God and led his armies to many victories in the following chapters. He is someone I look up to as an example of a christlike leader. In this artwork I was inspired by the fearlessness and preparations of Moroni. He planned ahead, giving his army sufficient armor and weapons. I was inspired by the weapons of the Aztec and Inca military culture. We have some records of what their armor was like and I tried my best to depict this armor in my art showing the varieties of cultures and people that show the diversity of the people in the Book of Mormon. "

Exhibition History:

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