Come to Zion

Josh Talbot, (b.1986), 2023, Print, 18x24

The Lord … shall suddenly come to his temple … For he shall make bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of their God. — Doctrine and Covenants 133:2-3

This is a depiction of the loving, welcoming, Savior of the World JESUS CHRIST, beckoning ALL to come to Him! It is my belief that all people are children of God and that He knows and loves each person. This image symbolically depicts Jesus Christ standing in the middle of the city of Zion, the city of His people—with its jeweled walls, many gates, and golden pathways—calling His children to “come home”.

The Testimony Concerning Jesus Christ (Series)

Josh Talbot, (b.1986), 2023, Prints, 14x16

I created a series depicting central moments in the life of Jesus Christ that (I hope) feel more accessible to both those familiar and not-so-familiar with Christianity. I looked to Eastern European folk art and the work of Czech painter Josef Lada (1887-1957) for inspiration. The meanings Christians have historically attached to flowers intrigue me and make the work feel more rooted in tradition. Among these are the mourning columbine, the exquisite passion flower, the thorny red rose, and the triumphant Easter lily. This quote by Joseph Smith Jr. (founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) fitly describes the importance of this series.

I am continuing to explore other faith-promoting moments and how I might depict them in new and unexpected ways. I hope to see this artwork find its way into the hearts and homes of families to inspire and instruct both the rising generation and also their parents.