Leon Parson

Title of Painting: PRARIE ANGELS

Media Type: Oil on stretched linen

Dimensions of Painting: 24 "x30"

Artist Statement: 

When looking at "Prarie Angels" we feel a tugging in our hearts as the thought comes to mind: "Who are these little girls?" Followed by a flood of questions: "Where are they from? Where are their parents? What are their names? How old are they? How far have they traveled? What trials have they endured ...? There is an unmistakable feeling of adversity etched within their countenances. One surmises correctly that they have experienced life, with too many pre-mature hardships, in a way that none of us have, nor may ever have to. And yet there is also a quality of hope that seems to radiate through and above their present circumstances. The older sister takes on a motherly posture as she cradles the doll in her arms. She is still a little girl, yet she possesses a maturity, wisdom and inner strength beyond her years. The younger sister is tired from the long journey and the physical demands that she has endured. She is facing life with a bold determination, nevertheless a delicate innocence reflects in her eyes. The title "Prairie Angels" is intended to suggest that there exists a >> sweet purity and a heavenly characteristic in these two little girls. And that perhaps, even before their journey's end, their lives will be cut short and become numbered among the angels. I believe that there were ministering angels that accompanied the people in the handcart companies and I also believe that there are still angels present at Martin's Cove today. Having participated twice with LDS youth group activities at Martin's Cove, once with my wife as surrogate "Ma's and Pa's" for a 'family' of teenagers, the second time as the Trek Master for our Stake's Youth Conference; I have gained a deeper understanding of the spirit that exists there, as well as a great appreciation for our pioneer heritage. I have become well acquainted with the endless accounts and experiences that the pioneers had which led up to the "first rescue". My own great-great grandfather Johann Pierre Stalle, a member of the first handcart company of 1856, died and was buried somewhere betwen the Platte and Sweetwater rivers. His youngest daughter, Margarite age 5, became my great grandmother. I hope that as people view "Prairie Angels" they feel something of the reality of eternity and the need for endurance until the end. Then in appreciation for those who have gone on before and succeeded, resolve to be valiant in their own 'eternal journey'.

Artist Biography: 

Leon Parson has nine years of formal art training, earning art degrees from Ricks College, The Art Center College of Design, and Syracuse University. He is chairman of the Department of Art at Brigham Young University, Idaho. Leon is among the top wildlife artists in the world and has received numerous awards and honors. He is a member of the Society of Animal Artists, and the Worldwide Nature Artists Group.