Franz M. Johansen (b. 1928), Resurrection, bronze, 83 ½ x 26 ½ x 18 ½ inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, 1993. Ⓒ Franz M. Johansen. Featured in the MOA Sculpture Garden.
This sculpture depicts an anonymous body suspended in the moment of resurrection. The burial rags clinging to the figure’s frame begin to slough off as the body rises from its pedestal. Resurrection has a rough, weathered texture, as if the body has just come from the earth that surrounds it in the MOA’s outdoor sculpture garden. The anonymity of the figure invites a personal reflection of our own eventual
resurrection.
Franz Johansen was a BYU professor who became a forerunner in contemporary sculpture. His works adorn many major LDS buildings throughout the country. Resurrection is just one of a series depicting the body in the state of revival.
Written by Guest author and Curatorial fellow: Ellie Hinds