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The Stockholm Sweden Temple is one of a series of detailed pencil drawings and paintings created by 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.
During his visit to Sweden, Chad had the fortunate opportunity to stay in the temple housing facilities, serve in the temple and meet temple staff. “I will never forget the love and kindness shown me by members and temple workers,” explained the artist. “One evening, I was invited by the Stockholm Mission President and his wife (Bente and Jan Åke Karlsson) to dinner in the mission’s historic home. Also in attendance were the current and future presidents and matrons of the Stockholm Sweden Temple. It was a very spiritually uplifting evening. The association I had with these gracious people made the creation of this painting very meaningful. I would like to express special appreciation to Temple President and Matron Max and Deborah Kimball for their assistance in making this painting possible.”
As with all his temple artwork, Chad incorporates subtle and meaningful imagery within each painting. “The time I spent with the Stockholm Sweden Temple and Mission Presidents prompted me to include imagery representing both temple and missionary work.” Representing temple service, an image of the Savior has been rendered in the trees and sky left of the temple. In the temple, members are taught more about the gospel of Jesus Christ, his atonement and the purpose of life. Among the dense vegetation to the right of the temple, the message of the restored gospel is referenced by the subtle placement of Joseph Smith holding the Book of Mormon.
