This book explores the place of art in Latter-day Saint society during the first 50 years of the Utah settlement, beginning in 1847.
Nathan Rees uncovers the critical role that images played in nineteenth-century Mormon religion, politics, and social practice. These artists not only represented, but actively participated in debates about theology, politics, race, gender, and sexuality at a time when Latter-day Saints were grappling with evolving doctrine, conflict with Native Americans, and political turmoil resulting from their practice of polygamy.
The book makes an important contribution to art history, Mormon studies, American studies, and religious studies.
1. Introduction 2. Visions and Visuality 3. Envisioning "Lamanites" 4. Painting the Promised Land 5. Scenes of Trial 6. Gender in Mormon Thought and Image 7. Representing Modern Mormonism
Biography
Nathan Rees is Assistant Professor of Art History at the University of West Georgia.
