"THE OLIVE TREE: An Artistic Interpretation," by Christine Layton Graham, Joan Layton Merrell, and Carol Layton Ogden, Cedar Fort, $16.99, 36 pages
Readers of the Book of Mormon are familiar with the fifth chapter of Jacob, which contains the allegory of the tame and wild olive trees. An allegory, similar to a parable, uses symbolic figures, actions and/or events to teach moral truths. In this case, the allegory takes place in a vineyard of olive trees and is cast with the master and the servant of the vineyard. Its intent is to teach God's purpose in the scattering and gathering of the house of Israel. It is the longest chapter in the Book of Mormon.
Inspired by this allegory, sisters Christine Layton Graham, Joan Layton Merrell and Carol Layton Ogden have combined their talents to create "The Olive Tree: An Artistic Interpretation." Graham, a writer, modified the text of the allegory into a more modern narrative. Merrell, a calligrapher, used her skills to produce text reminiscent of olives and nature. Ogden, an artist, was inspired by the color palette of Van Gogh's "Olive Trees" to create a beautiful visual interpretation of the events.
"The Olive Tree: An Artistic Interpretation" is a visual delight and a beautiful keepsake for individuals and families. While the text is written in a modern narrative, the integrity of the allegory is not lost. This is not a watered-down version of the original text. The calligraphed text and artwork enhance its meaning. It is reminiscent of the handwritten and illustrated books created by monks during the Middle Ages.
Graham, who is also an English instructor, lives in Salt Lake City. Merrell, a professional calligrapher and fiber artist, lives in Jefferson City, Missouri. Ogden, a professional artist, lives in Springville.
Tequitia Andrews is a freelance writer and artist based in Virginia.