Modern & Abstract Art by Latter-day Saints

Traditional religious art has a long history of meaning and inspiration, dating back to old chapel murals and handwritten copies of the Bible. Even now, it plays an important role in the thoughts we share on social media, in enhancing our personal scripture study, and in creating memorable gifts.

But that does not fit everyone’s decoration taste, even if it sends a beautiful message. And depending on the style and layout of your home, it can sometimes pose a challenge when trying to decide how to display it. If flowing robes, minute details, and dramatic lighting isn’t your scene, here are a few eye-catching pieces of modern LDS art to consider the next time you want to add a splash of color to your home or workspace.

Jorge’s characteristic geometric style sheds an entirely new light on religious artwork. Rather than focusing on historical accuracy or detail, he seeks to speak directly to the soul with his paintbrush. Often, he uses angles and line directions to guide the eye and communicate more subtle spiritual messages. Inspired by the cubism style, the artist terms his modern style “saccrocubism” since he uses a similar approach to capture sacred religious scenes.

Jeff takes a minimalist approach to his modern LDS art style. These paintings of the nativity and Joseph Smith’s first vision cut out the frills and allow us to focus in on the event itself. While religious scholars and historians may try to pinpoint the historical details, Jeff’s artwork takes us the right to what the scene means to us personally, regardless of any extra fluff.

Mike specializes in a special knife technique to achieve the unique rough–cut texture in each of his paintings. It is an impressionist-like style that creates a sense that the scene has been carved into life rather than simply painted. These two paintings center around the birth and early life of the Savior of the world. 

JD’s colorful, mosaic-like paintings seem to hark back to the stunning stained glass windows in the old cathedrals, but with a more modern look. He brings together a variety of abstract shapes and hues to create an image that is both eye-catching and inspiring.

Madison also uses geometric patterns in her modern LDS artwork, putting a fresh new spin on her temple pictures and paintings of Jesus Christ. Her bright and cheerful style makes for the perfect room decor, adding a sense of spirituality and a splash of color to any space.

Hendrik’s impressionist paintings hold deep meaning but in an approachable modern form. About his art, Hendrik says: “My art expresses relationships. Eternal family relationships seem to reach into every corner of my art studio, and onto my paintings.” Like many of our artists, he leads with his testimony of Christ and His restored gospel first and a paintbrush second. 

Carin’s symbolic artwork illustrates our personal journey with Jesus Christ. Drawing from her own challenges, she creates beautiful abstract works of art to bring out the light that is present even during our darkest times. What insights do you draw from these paintings? 

With Kendals’ collection, there is more than meets the eye. His “paintings” are enormous collages of tiny photos and magazine cutouts. With painstaking patience and planning, he finds the right cutouts to match the colors and textures needed to complete each piece. Each work of art carries a special easter egg. For example, each includes a small piece from the masterful work of Van Gough.

Have a favorite? Or a style you would like to see more of? Let us know in the comments! If you want to see more work by these talented artists, you can view their artist pages on both the Altus site as well as Cornerstone, our second site. 

And if you liked this blog, you may also like:

Introducing Kendal Ray

Latter-day Saint Temple Paintings

Sacrocubism: 12 Abstract Paintings by LDS Artist