The Master's Hand

Yesterday my family had the most fortunate opportunity to visit the Carl Bloch exhibit at the BYU Museum of Art. It was an experience like no other...

Although there were many of his works on display. There were three of his altar pieces that really, really, really touched me.

The Doubting Thomas 1881

When we entered the exhibit this painting was the first thing I saw. Right in front of me larger than life. Joaquin and I moved over to the side out of the way and sat down on the floor to soak it all up. The first thing we both noticed was all the light on the Savior. In fact, the light appears to emanate from Him. We looked around to see if it was the reflection of light from a spotlight but there was only one small light directed at this huge painting.

Then we read the background and discovered that the artist had chosen to take a different view of this event. Interestingly enough most works of art based on this scriptural event show Thomas touching the Savior. However, Carl Bloch chose to paint the moment that Thomas knew it was the Risen Lord. I know the little bitty one I have above doesn't do it justice but there is such a look of shame yet joy on Thomas' face. Shame that he doubted joy that his Lord lived!

Christ in Gethsemane 1879

I never knew a painting could touch my soul. Could deepen my understanding of my Savior, but viewing this painting was a sacred event for me. So, all I'll say about it is that I am so grateful for the talents of others that strengthen my own testimony. It was a very special thing to share with my Joaquin.

The Daughter of Jairus

I loved this one not just for the scriptural event it was based on but for the manner in which the artist chose to depict the event. As with The Doubting Thomas the artist chose to paint a different moment than was typically painted. He chose the most intensely sorrowful moment. Why would I like this depiction? Because as you look behind this moment of grief you see the Savior entering the door and you know that light, life, and joy are about to fill this room. "God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son".