Brian Kershisnik

Title of Painting: MY ANCESTORS KISSED

Media Type: Oil on canvas

Dimensions of Painting: 32"x42"

Artist Statement: 

"My Ancestors Kissed" is a variation on a theme which I have visited in several paintings. My own heritage, like most Americans, is from elsewhere, though largely not a part of the Mormon emigration. Nevertheless, having visited their countries of origin, I cannot help but think of the love and tenderness that they likely experienced in leaving their native lands, notwithstanding the excitement and danger of their new enterprise. In the case of my own family, it also often involved hopefully temporary separations. This kiss then could be lovers separated, or perhaps it suggests that solidifying of love that can result from sadness or extremity.

Artist Biography: 

Jeffrey Hein didn’t study art until his first year at Brigham Young University, Idaho. After serving a mission and fighting cancer, Jeff resumed study in 1998 at the University of Utah. He keeps one question in his mind as he works, “What makes a portrait more than just a portrait, but rather a piece of fine art?” Jeff’s work, both religious and secular, has quickly become very popular.