Elect Lady

Oil on canvas, 36×48″, 2025
In the collection of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
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Portrait of Emma Smith (1804-1879), wife of Joseph Smith, first president of the Relief Society.

This painting was inspired by a model who showed up to a local drawing class, dressed in this costume. Upon seeing her in this pose, an image of Emma Smith flashed into my mind which I felt I had to paint. The background is invented, although it is partly based on a later photo shoot I did with her at the local Frontier Homestead State Park museum, but is intended to give weight to the global positive regard for all this woman went through and accomplished. The original Nauvoo Temple, which she helped build, is represented in the background. You can read more about LDS temples here.

The book she holds in her hand represents a collection of hymns she was commissioned to create. The book is only 2.5″ high, as a well-regarded collector told me. She received the commission by revelation, wherein she was also called Elect Lady.

The vase represents her immense gifts, sometimes obtained by her life’s incredible challenges, but also her willingness to receive guidance and gifts from others, especially from her husband and God. It also represents her being a “chosen vessel” of the Lord.

The painting reflects influences including James McNeil Whistler’s Whistler’s Mother and royal portraiture while also reflecting Emma’s unique story.

You can read more about Emma Smith here.