New Sculpture Unveiled at Temple Square

As part of the ongoing renovation of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has unveiled the first of many new sculptures.

These statues, created by local artists, depict significant moments in Jesus Christ’s life and key events in Church history.

Over the next two years, more sculptures will be added, transforming Temple Square into a visual narrative of Christ’s ministry.

A Monument to the First Vision

The first sculpture, installed in the northwest corner of Temple Square, depicts the First Vision. In 1820, 14-year-old Joseph Smith saw God the Father and Jesus Christ in a sacred grove.

For members of the Church, this moment marks the beginning of the restoration of the gospel. The statue was designed by artist Michael Hall, who shared his personal conviction about the significance of the event.

“I believe that God exists, that Jesus Christ is His Son, that He died for all of us,” Hall said. “Because of Joseph Smith, we can know that God and Jesus Christ care about us.”

The sculpture invites viewers to connect with both the divine and human aspects of the First Vision. Hall made a deliberate effort to design the faces of God and Christ to be universally relatable.

“There are elements of all humankind in both their faces,” he explained, making the figures accessible to all people.

A Call for Reflection and Contemplation

The new sculpture serves as more than just art; it is an invitation for contemplation and spiritual reflection.

Director of temple design Bill Williams emphasized that the renovation allows Temple Square to tell the story of Christ’s life. “People can wander around, find something that impresses them, and reflect on its meaning,” Williams said.

David Hunter, an architect involved in the redesign, highlighted the statue’s ability to capture themes of faith and spiritual seeking. “It speaks to the innocence of a young boy seeking answers to spiritual questions,” Hunter noted.

More Sculptures to Come

The First Vision sculpture is just the beginning. Over the next two years, more sculptures focusing on key moments in Christ’s life and teachings will be installed across Temple Square.

These additions center on the Savior, ensuring He is the focal point of Temple Square. Some previous sculptures will return, like the Seagull Monument and the Priesthood Restoration, but the redesign places Christ at the heart of it all.

“Whichever way you enter the plaza, you will embrace the story of Christ’s ministry,” Hunter said. “We want to convey to the world that Christ leads His Church today,” he added.

These sculptures aim to share the message of Christ’s central role in the gospel.

A Sacred Space for All

As Temple Square continues its renovation, visitors will experience a space that invites reflection, reverence, and deeper spiritual understanding. Each sculpture is a visual testimony of Christ’s life and teachings, inviting all who visit to contemplate His message.

The new statues will help visitors connect with the Savior’s ministry and reflect on His love for all of God’s children. As more sculptures are installed, the story of Christ and His impact will unfold for all to see.

The First Vision statue is now open for public viewing. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on its significance and the broader message of Christ’s ministry. With each new sculpture, Temple Square will continue to stand as a testament to the Savior’s role in restoring the gospel and guiding His people.

The unveiling of these new sculptures at Temple Square marks an important moment in the renovation of this sacred space. Each statue invites visitors to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

As the redesign progresses, these artworks will help deepen the spiritual connection of all who visit. The First Vision statue and those to come will continue to inspire and teach all who seek to know Christ better.

Holly Wallace

Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.