Dell Parson

Title of Painting: JAMES KIRKWOOD CARRIES HIS BROTHER, JOSEPH, OVER ROCKY RIDGE

Media Type: Pastel on paper

Dimensions of Painting: 43 "x37"

Artist Statement: 

In August, 2004 I had the opportunity of serving as the trek master for our ward’s youth trip to Martin’s Cove.  While there, we heard the stories and felt the spirit of that sacred place.  Two stories stood out in my mind: Sarah Ann Franks and her beloved George Padley and the story of James Kirkwood carrying his brother, Joseph up Rocky Ridge.  I was given the Kirkwood assignment.  As I painted the song, “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s my Brother” played over in my mind, and I thought of the love he had for his brother, which ultimately cost him his life.

Artist Biography: 

Del Parson received his formal training at Ricks College and Brigham Young University, where he was awarded an MFA in drawing and painting. He is now an art professor at Dixie State College. He has produced more than two hundred works for the Church, and won numerous art awards in national and regional shows. He was also designated as one of the hundred Most Honored Artists of Utah.