They Had Been Taught By Their Mothers

Technique & Style

Digital illustration, Figurative

Symbols

helmet

Notes

Artist statement: "I created this digital piece to explore the feelings of an Anti-Nephi-Lehi mother to her child, a future stripling warrior. She holds him close, unaware of the violent future that awaits him. He is dressed in military garb - even the strongest fighter was once just a small child, dependent on his mother’s care. We learn that the spiritual strength of these young men is due to the teachings of their mothers. These women were Lamanite converts who endured many hardships, including persecution from unconverted Lamanites. Driven from their homes multiple times by persistent enemies, they likely saw friends and family members die. These trials would teach them to “not fear death” (Alma 56:47), which courage they would pass on to their sons. The stripling warriors would go on to fight valiantly, not one slain, because of the strength of their mothers. I chose a style reminiscent of something one might find in the Friend magazine - vibrant colors with simplified forms - to evoke a feeling of comfort, like the embrace of a parent. "

Commissioned Status

Submitted to the 2025 Book of Mormon Art Contest

Church Name

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints