The First Vision

Technique & Style

Abstract, Mosaic

Figures

Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, Joseph Smith

Symbols

grass, plant, tree

Notes

Cyril M. "Sonny" Directo (1921-1992) was a highly accomplished artist and educator known for his remarkable contributions to art and community. A native of Kainaliu, Hawaii, he moved to Independence, Missouri, in 1950. Sonny earned bachelor's and master's degrees in fine arts from the Kansas City Art Institute and a doctorate in art history from Walden University. For 26 years, he taught art at Penn Valley Community College, retiring in 1990, and earlier at Northeast High School. In 1970, he served as an artist-in-residence at the University of Hawaii. Sonny's works include wood carvings displayed at Independence Regional Health Center, Penn Valley Community College, and other notable locations. He created a stunning 7' x 4' hand-cut mosaic of the First Vision in the 1970s, showcasing his exceptional talent. Beyond his art, Sonny was known for preparing Hawaiian luaus for church and community events and was ordained as a priest in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (formerly "RLDS"). Sonny asked that this mosaic be given to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where it could be viewed by a congregation.

Current Location

In storage in the Independence Stake Center at 705 W. Walnut St. in Independence, MO

Church Name

Community of Christ (Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints)