Assuming The Mantel

With more than a decade since the last Solemn Assembly, I decided to try my newly honed portrait skills on a portrait of the new LDS Prophet, Thomas S. Monson.

Here is a man of love, courage and conviction. A man who is a good example to those around him as well as millions throughout the world. I wanted to capture some of what I see in him. I searched many hours through videos and photographs until I finally found the perfect pose.

I feel that this portrait effectively captures his character, the smile is not posed, it is natural, he has what I call, the "Monson Tilt", which is characteristic of President Monson, and his eyes are powerful, as would be any man who has been called by God to be a prophet, yet his face is kindly, depicting the love he has for those around him.

I love and admire President Monson, and I am thankful for the talents which allow me to paint such a wonderful portrait of a great man.