A M B E R L E A

A Visual Storyteller

Amberlea Erekson Smoot is a contemporary fine artist whose work explores the intersection of history, faith, and storytelling through the luminous medium of oil paint. Her paintings delve into themes of religion, oral tradition, symbolism, and antiquity, inviting viewers to uncover layered narratives and profound truths. Combining classical and impressionistic techniques, she has created what one admirer described as “a masterpiece in visual storytelling.”

Artistic Vision

Storytelling Through Symbolism

Amberlea’s work is celebrated for its intellectual depth and emotional resonance. A hallmark of her paintings is her innovative use of chiasmus, a literary and symbolic structure that mirrors and balances ideas. This technique adds layers of meaning, drawing viewers into the profound narratives embedded in her compositions. Whether capturing the symbolism of sacred stories or the raw beauty of the natural world, Amberlea’s art bridges the tangible and the spiritual, offering reflections on truth, testimony, and divine creation.

Amberlea’s work sparks meaningful dialogue and resonates with timeless themes of truth, testimony, and beauty. Each piece tells a story that bridges the tangible and the spiritual, making her art a profound reflection of human connection and experience.

Creative Foundations

Education

Amberlea’s passion for storytelling is deeply rooted in her academic background and global experiences. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from BYU-Idaho, with additional studies in Illustration, Design, and International Studies. This multidisciplinary foundation shapes her unique artistic approach, combining historical research, visual narrative, and cultural insight.

Global Experiences

Her art is also shaped by her time and experiences at the BYU Jerusalem Center, on a mission in Eastern Ukraine for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and her professional career at FamilySearch International have enriched her understanding of cultural dynamics and human connections evident in her works. where she immersed herself in the complexities of spirituality, tradition, and human connection. These experiences, alongside her role as a sketch artist for archaeological digs in Egypt, give her art a rich, historical resonance. Collaborating with her husband, Egyptologist Stephen O. Smoot, Amberlea documents ancient discoveries with precision and reverence—an influence that can be seen in the depth and detail of her work.

Family History

Amberlea’s professional work at FamilySearch International—a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people discover their family history—further inspires her art. Over eight-plus years, she worked as an administrative assistant and project manager, helping individuals connect with their heritage and ancestors. This deep involvement in genealogy aligns with her creative mission to honor the past and offer new perspectives on the human experience.

"The human face is the world's most exquisite creation, a testament to the Creator's unparalleled artistry."

Amberlea

Subject Matter

The Human Figure

Amberlea believes in the human face, we see the pinnacle of creation, a masterpiece crafted by the Creator's hand. In her work, she seeks to tell stories from scripture and history through the lens of the human figure, capturing not only physical features but also the emotions and experiences that define the human spirit. Whether painting a moment of spiritual surrender, resilience, or divine connection, Amberlea’s portraits reflect her deep reverence for the individuality and sacred nature of each person.

Landscapes

Amberlea finds deep inspiration in the natural world. Her landscape paintings are a tribute to the divine artistry of creation, capturing the beauty of mountains, skies, and quiet moments in nature. These works reflect her belief that the masterful design of the earth reminds us of the Creator’s presence and love. Whether through symbolic storytelling or the raw beauty of the natural world, Amberlea’s art connects the tangible to the spiritual, offering viewers timeless reflections on truth and testimony.

Signature Projects

Chiasmus Series

Among Amberlea’s most celebrated works is the Alpha and Omega Series, a collection of five oil paintings depicting critical moments in the life of Jesus Christ. Structured as a visual chiasmus, the first (the grand council in heaven) and last (the final judgement), and second (Christ's birth) and fourth (Christ's death) paintings mirror one another, with the third (the atonement) painting standing as the thematic centerpiece. This series weaves themes of love, sacrifice, and resurrection, offering a profound exploration of Christ’s role as Alpha—the beginning—and Omega—the completion.

Visual Storytelling

Another notable project is A Paiute Princess, inspired by Amberlea’s passion for family history and the oral tradition of her ancestors. The series recounts the story of Florence, a young pioneer girl taken in by a Native American tribe mourning the loss of the chief’s daughter. Florence was embraced as their “princess,” bridging two cultures. Eventually, the tribe returned her, believing she belonged to both worlds. Many of Amberlea’s paintings honor the legacy’s cultural connection and the enduring power of family bonds.

Art That Preserves and Inspires

Amberlea Erekson’s work transcends the canvas, offering timeless stories and reflections inspired by faith, heritage, and the natural world. Through thoughtful brushwork and layered symbolism, she invites viewers to reflect on themes of truth, resilience, and divine purpose. Her landscape paintings serve as a reminder of the Creator’s hand in the beauty around us, while her narrative works preserve meaningful stories from history and family legacies.

When not painting, Amberlea enjoys exploring the wonders of the world with her family, finding inspiration in nature, cultural treasures, and the shared human experience. Her creative journey is guided by a belief in the power of art to preserve the past, illuminate the present, and inspire the future.