Recently the church that I belong to, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, published an announcement that they are going to regulate the artwork that is displayed in our meeting houses. This was an exciting announcement because all of the paintings that they chose depict our Savior, but it was also really disappointing because the artwork is not inclusive of the people in our church. In every painting Jesus is portrayed as a white man and there are very few People of Color.

Here is the article with the announcement, it includes the approved artwork.

In this episode Michelle Franzoni Thorley from @florafamiliar and I discuss the importance of making the art in our meeting houses more diverse and inclusive. Michelle shares amazing insight about the power of displaying art that represents the congregation that we hope to have, rather than just showing reflections of those in the congregation who align with the dominant culture.

We also give ideas about action that can be taken by church members who would like to see more inclusion in LDS art.

Michelle's Instagram Platform: @florafamiliar

Michelle's Article: Diversity in LDS Art

Conversations and Questions About Art at Church by Esther Candari

Latter Day Saint Women of Color Art Scholarship

Vision of the Arts Mother Artist Grant

Song Credit: "Away" by Geographer and "Beach Disco" by Dougie Wood