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The Sacramento California Temple is one of a series of detailed pencil drawings and paintings created by the artist Chad S. Hawkins. In 1989, at the age of seventeen, Chad started this unique temple series, becoming the original LDS artist to involve hidden spiritual images in his artwork.
In the temple, members are taught more about the gospel of Jesus Christ and the purpose of life. To remind one of the importance of Christ’s atonement in temple work, the artist has subtly rendered the Savior’s image among the arched colonnades. “How to include the Savior in this painting developed,” explains the artist, “as I discussed the temple with the building’s architect, Brian K. Everett. He explained how the arched colonnades extending from the edifice reminded him of open arms welcoming all to the temple. Considering this beautiful imagery, I illustrated the Savior in the motion of inviting all to His house.”
Additional imagery within the painting is based upon the floral theme adorning the temple’s exquisite interior. Delicate pink roses in the painting’s foreground are reminiscent of the temple’s rose motif. The rose theme adorns the Brides Room, Ordinance Rooms, Sealing Rooms and entry floor mosaic. Among the painting’s roses are subtle golden flowers. These are consistent with the temple’s poppy theme, found throughout the temple in many forms including furniture upholstery and hand carved carpets.
