20+ Inspiring Nativity Scenes to Bring the Christmas Spirit

Nativity scene by Lightweave, showing the Holy Family huddled in a cave stable. Text reads: "10+ Inspiring Nativity Scene Pictures".

Annelie Hansen |

Nativity scenes hold a special place in our hearts as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. These beautiful artworks capture the essence of the holiday, reminding us of Jesus Christ's humble birth and the profound significance of His arrival in our lives. 

As we decorate our homes and prepare for the festive season, nativity scenes become focal points that draw our attention to the Savior, inviting us to reflect on His teachings and love.

In this blog, we want to share some of our favorite nativity scene artworks that bring peace and warmth into our homes during the holiday season. Each piece is a constant reminder of the miracle of Christ’s birth. Join us as we explore inspiring nativity scenes that uplift our spirits and enrich our Christmas celebrations.

Nativity scene artists

Rod Peterson and Justine Peterson

We are thrilled to introduce two talented new artists to our gallery: Rod Peterson and Justine Peterson. Their fresh perspectives on nativity art breathe new life into this cherished theme. 

Rod's paintings capture the beauty of the nativity scene with stunning detail, showcasing the love and reverence present in the holy family. 

A serene painting depicting a woman tenderly holding a baby, embodying the essence of nativity art.

Mother’s Embrace by Rod Peterson

A painting depicting Jesus and Mary tenderly holding a baby, embodying the essence of nativity art and scenes.

Unto Us a Child is Born by Rod Peterson

Justine’s unique style brings a vibrant and contemporary touch that resonates with modern audiences. Together, they create compelling works that invite viewers to reflect on the sacredness of Christ’s birth and the joy it brings to our lives.

Julie McClure's painting of Jesus in the desert, illustrating a moment of solitude and reflection in a vast landscape.

Mary, She Who Is Highly Favored by Justine Peterson

Watercolor painting depicting Jesus and Mary tenderly holding a baby, embodying a serene nativity scene.

Stewards by Justine Peterson

A painting depicting a woman tenderly holding a child, embodying the essence of nativity art and scenes.

Waiting for the Carpenter by Justine Peterson

Lynde Mott

Lynde Mott’s nativity scene painting celebrates light and color. Known for her distinctive use of bright hues and cheerful themes, Mott’s work invites warmth and joy into any space. 

In her depiction of Mary and Baby Jesus, she masterfully combines vivid colors that evoke a sense of hope and love. This artwork encourages all who see it to embrace the light of the Savior.

A woman in traditional attire cradles a baby, depicted in a serene nativity scene painting.

Let Earth Receive Her King by Lynde Mott

Traditional artistic interpretations of the holy family

A serene nativity scene depicting the birth of Jesus, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, and the adoring animals in a stable.

A Savior Is Born by Joseph Brickey

Joseph Brickey captures the holy family in a realistic stable setting, showcasing Mary and Joseph's tender expressions as they gaze at their newborn son. Each brushstroke beautifully conveys the sacredness of this moment and the humble circumstances surrounding it.

A serene nativity scene depicting the birth of Jesus in a manger, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, and gentle animals.

Nativity by Robert A. Boyd

Robert A. Boyd invites viewers into the scene, fostering a connection that allows them to witness the love and reverence shared by Mary and Joseph. Boyd’s ability to blend realism with spirituality creates an inspiring focal point that strengthens our faith in Christ.

A serene depiction of the Holy Family, showcasing Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in a traditional nativity scene setting.

Holy Family by Annie Henrie Nader

Annie Henrie Nader emphasizes warmth and closeness in her nativity scenes, showcasing the deep affection within the holy family. Using rich colors and soft lines, she creates an inviting atmosphere that draws viewers into intimate moments of the nativity. 

Nader’s work resonates with those seeking a deeper connection to the Christmas spirit and the loving essence of the Savior.

A serene painting depicting a woman cradling a baby, embodying the essence of nativity art and tender maternal love.

Infant Holy by Jennah Larsen

Jennah Larsen’s depiction of Mary and Jesus shines with striking realism. By capturing Mary’s youth and vulnerability without halos, she allows viewers to connect with the human aspect of the nativity. Her focus on the intimate bond between mother and child conveys deep love and protection, inviting reflection on the beauty of motherhood and the divine gift of the Savior.

Unique nativity scene perspectives

A nativity scene in the desert featuring a man and woman before a cave, capturing the essence of nativity art.

Families of Bethlehem by Jesse and Kelsey Lightweave

Jesse and Kelsey Lightweave combine photography and digital painting to create captivating nativity scenes. Their use of dramatic lighting illuminates the holy family against a beautiful backdrop. The bright beam from the new star symbolizes hope, inviting viewers to reflect on the profound impact of Christ’s birth.

Three framed paintings depicting Jesus, Mary, and Baby Jesus, showcasing nativity art in a serene setting.

Nativity Triptych by Annie Henrie Nader

Annie Henrie Nader divides the nativity scene into three panels, each highlighting a different aspect: the wise men, Mary and Jesus, and the shepherds. This arrangement allows viewers to explore each group's unique roles in the sacred event. 

By emphasizing the journeys of the wise men and the humble shepherds, this triptych underscores the call to witness and honor the Savior, inviting appreciation for the nativity story's message of faith and hope.

The wise men and shepherds

Importance of the shepherds

The shepherds are important in the nativity story, representing everyday people who often go unnoticed. While tending their flocks, they received the angels' announcement of the Savior's birth, showing that God's love reaches everyone. 

Their quick decision to seek out the holy family highlights their faith and excitement to witness this incredible event. Their humble background reminds us that we can come to Christ simply as we are, encouraging everyone to join in the joyful celebration of His birth.

A group of four individuals, three men and one woman, stand before a hill dotted with sheep, evoking a serene pastoral scene.

Come Ye to Bethlehem by Simon Dewey

A serene painting of a lamb resting on hay, evoking the peacefulness of nativity scenes and traditional nativity art.

Lamb of God by Linda Curley Christensen

A boy sits on a rock surrounded by sheep, depicted in a serene nativity scene painting.

Silent Night by Joseph Brickey

Significance of the wise men

The wise men emphasize the importance of actively seeking Christ. Their journey involved sacrifices and was guided by a bright new star, showing their commitment to discovering the truth. When they arrived at the stable, they brought gifts fit for a king, honoring Jesus' divine nature.

Their actions remind us that seeking the Savior requires us to give of ourselves in worship. The wise men encourage us to pursue our own spiritual journeys and remind us that each step of faith brings us closer to Christ's light.

Three robed men hold a jug and a bowl, depicting a nativity scene with elements of reverence and tradition.

We Three Kings by Simon Dewey

A painting depicting three individuals riding on a camel, evoking themes of nativity and journey in art.

Nativity - Wisemen by Rose Datoc Dall

A painting depicting individuals riding camels across a vast desert landscape, evoking themes of journey and exploration.

Caravan in the Desert by Joseph Brickey

Modern nativity art

A serene painting of a baby resting on a blanket, evoking themes of nativity and innocence in art.

Nativity by Jeff Pugh

Jeff Pugh's nativity scene painting focuses entirely on the Savior. Jeff's simple shapes and colors give this piece a modern, minimalist style.

There aren't any extraneous embellishments or any embellishments at all. Just the infant Messiah sleeping soundly through what truly appears to be a silent night.

A painting depicting two women in a nativity scene, showcasing the warmth and reverence of the holiday season.

Stable Witnesses by Henrik Ensing

Henrik takes an impressionist approach to his nativity scene picture. His brushstrokes combine a wide variety of colors and textures to create a simple but joyful scene. This nativity scene painting has a celebratory feel, reminding us that this is a season to rejoice in the birth and saving power of Jesus Christ.

A serene nativity scene painting featuring a manger and two figures, capturing the essence of the Christmas story.

Nativity - Still Night by Jorge Cocco

Jorge Cocco has multiple nativity scene pictures. In this one, he takes his characteristic “saccrocubsim” style to a new level by giving his shapes thick borders. It gives the impression that we are looking at a stained glass window, which, though his style is modern, adds a traditional flair.

A nativity scene painting featuring camels and people, depicting the birth of Jesus in a serene setting.

Eric Dowdle’s Nativity

Eric Dowdle is another artist with a style all his own. In this colorful, almost playful nativity scene picture, we see the entire story: the star, the cities, the shepherds, the wise men, the angels, and, of course, Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus.

All of the movement, detail, and color create endless interest for the eyes, making this a fun image for teaching children about this sacred holiday.

Best-selling nativity scene pictures from Simon Dewey

A serene painting depicting a baby wrapped in a blanket, embodying the essence of nativity art and scenes.

For Unto Us a Child is Born 

A serene nativity scene depicting the birth of Jesus, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, and gentle animals in a stable setting.

His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful

A serene nativity scene depicting Jesus and Mary in a stable, surrounded by gentle animals and soft, warm light.

For God So Loved the World

Jesus cradles baby Jesus in a tender moment, embodying the essence of nativity scenes and religious art.

In the Arms of Joseph

A beautiful nativity scene painting featuring a woman lovingly cradling a baby, symbolizing maternal care.

In the Arms of Mary

Get your nativity scene artwork from Altus Fine Art

These best-selling nativity scene pictures offer a wonderful way to bring the spirit of Christmas into your home. Each piece tells a story, inviting viewers to reflect on the beauty and significance of Christ’s birth. 

Explore more of our stunning Christmas and nativity art pieces in the Altus Fine Art gallery. Find the perfect artwork that resonates with you and enhances your holiday celebrations!

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