Del Parson: Mormon Artist
Del Parson is a traditional realist painter, well-known for his painting of Jesus Christ and other religious art. He is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Born Delwin Oliver Parson in Ogden, Utah, in 1948, he grew up in Rexburg, Idaho. His father was an artist and art professor, and two of his eight siblings (Leon and Nolan) are also professional artists.
He received his BS degree in Life Sciences and his MFA in drawing and painting from Brigham Young University. Before becoming a professor of art at Dixie College in Utah, he was a gallery and portrait artist.
The death of his wife and youngest daughter in 1978 led him to begin painting primarily religious subjects. The Church of Jesus Christ has commissioned him to paint over 240 works. Many of them portray Jesus Christ. His painting, known as “Christ in Red Robe” is used in many LDS Church materials, and prints are found widely throughout meetinghouses and Church members’ homes. His painting “He Is Risen” and “Jesus, Mary and Martha” are also well known.
Parson also paints other themes, particularly landscapes. He has received regional and national awards for his work. His work has been displayed and exhibited nationally.
A biographical film, “Del Parson: Portraits of Love,” premiered on BYU-TV in April 2011.[1]
Parson and his wife and six children live in Cedar City, Utah.
