To accompany this week’s Come, Follow Me study, we have compiled some of our very favorite paintings and images of the First Vision. Each one is a powerful reminder of the Lord’s ability to hear our prayers and send strength and peace in times of difficulty.
With the events currently happening in the world, we could all use a little bit of reassurance and beautiful art to look at. Be sure to add any of your favorites that we may have missed in the comments section below!
Joseph’s First Vision, by Minerva Teichert
Minerva Teichert’s beautiful interpretation of the First Vision is filled with the vibrancy and color of nature, with a warmth and radiance that can be felt throughout the painting.
The First Vision, by Anthony Sweat
Anthony Sweat’s painting is captivating in its use of colors and the flames of the Spirit that illuminate the host of angels behind the Father and the Son. The intense scene chases away the adversary, who almost escapes notice near the margins of the piece.
First Vision, by Del Parson
One of the most well-known images in Latter-day Saint history, this print of the First Vision is an iconic representation of the Father and the Son communing with Joseph. This piece’s upward angle and clear depiction of Father and Son invite us to behold Them in a way almost no other painting of this sacred event does.
Pillar of Light, by Brent Borup
Brent Borup’s interpretation of the First Vision is beautiful in its use of almost blinding light contrasting the lush, deep green of the sacred grove. This beautiful piece of artwork is one that you can’t miss.
Sacred Prayer, by Linda Curley Christensen
Linda Curley Christensen’s depiction of a young Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove is a powerful image of the beauty of the Earth and the humility of the young Prophet. Joseph’s small figure almost disappears into the foliage—as the pillar light just begins to descend through the trees.
Joseph Smith’s First Vision, by the Cuna Indians
This beautiful interpretation of the First Vision was created by the Cuna Indians of the San Blas Islands in Panama. It uses cotton textiles and mola to present a rich image of color.
Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove
Bev Barnett’s beautiful painting of Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove is a must-have. The pillar of light that descends on Joseph Smith is a powerful representation of the spirit of hope and clarity that filled Joseph when he was visited by the Father and the Son.
First Vision, by Paul Forster
Paul Forster’s painting of the First Vision is powerful for many reasons. First is its depiction of the Father and the Son banishing the dark forces surrounding Joseph, and secondly the expressions on the Father, the Son, and Joseph’s faces. Each one perfectly captures the emotions and feelings that must have been felt during this visitation.
The Forces of Light and Dark, by Warren Floyd Luch
Warren Floyd Luch’s inspiring painting uses its lack of color to emphasize that the young boy Joseph was visited by both dark and light forces. The beautiful use of light makes this piece an incredibly thought-provoking piece of art.
The First Vision, by Joni Susanto
Joni Susanto’s striking interpretation of the First Vision is rich in color and patterns. Susanto hails from Indonesia, and the cultural influences can be seen and felt throughout the painting.
Early Spring, 1820, by Jeffery Robert Pugh
Jeffery Robert Pugh’s depiction of the First Vision is bold and striking. The bright figures of the Father and the Son, just beginning to materialize, push away the inky darkness surrounding Joseph like a sunrise chasing away the night.
Above the Brightness of the Sun, by Tyler Anderson
Tyler Anderson’s rendering of the First Vision focuses on the light that appeared just prior to Heavenly Father and the Savior’s arrival in the sacred grove. Joseph’s small, dark silhouette and the deep shadows among the trees emphasize the power and brightness of the light that ultimately held the young prophet in its embrace.
The First Vision, by J. Kirk Richards
J. Kirk Richards’ beautiful interpretation of the First Vision combines soft, peaceful colors and diffused shapes in portraying the Father and the Son’s visitation of the Prophet Joseph Smith.
This is My Beloved Son, Hear Him, by Dan Burr
This composition by Dan Burr perfectly captures the unearthly quality of the light that enveloped Joseph during the First Vision. It is represented here by a pure, white, almost opaque stripe that shields the boy prophet from the rest of the forest like a veil.
Joseph Smith’s First Vision, by Emile Wilson
This painting is deeply influenced by Emile Wilson’s Sierra Leonean heritage. The piece uses batik, a form of beautiful textile art that uses wax and dye to create patterns and images on fabric.
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The First Vision stands as a powerful testament to God’s willingness to hear and answer sincere prayers. These beautiful artistic interpretations remind us of the sacredness of that moment and its enduring relevance in our lives.
As you study the First Vision this week, let these images inspire you to seek your own divine guidance and light. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or favorite depictions in the comments—we’d love to see what moves and uplifts you!
Devin is a graduate of Brigham Young University where he studied English and Business Management. He is a writer, photographer, movie-fanatic, and a lover of street tacos. He served his mission in Tokyo, Japan.
