New “Tree of Life” Exhibit Opens at Thanksgiving Point

Lehi, Utah – Thanksgiving Point’s “Tree of Life Garden” is a brand-new permanent display that features over 130 bronze sculptures that tell the Book of Mormon’s tale of the Tree of Life. The exhibit has been in the works for almost five years.

The craftsmanship enthralls the visitors. “As I look around and just the storytelling and everything is so beautiful, I am amazed, just absolutely amazed,” said Kimberly Pineda of Provo.
West Jordan resident Maria Denny said the same. “After seeing what she did and the way she depicted it, I simply feel at ease and amazed. “I’m thankful and happy to be here,” she remarked.

Renowned Highland sculptor Angela Johnson had the idea for the Tree of Life Garden. People are supposed to be able to relate to this exhibit as they navigate it. The fact that they genuinely feel like they are a part of the narrative is what matters most,” Johnson said.

The exhibit illustrates the prophet Lehi’s vision from the Book of Mormon, showing the human family’s quest for God’s love and the obstacles they encounter along the route. “The terraced design is really quite beautiful because it does communicate a journey, and the different choices that we make along the way,” Johnson stated.

Angela explained every illustration as we strolled throughout the garden, highlighting elements such as the iron rod bearing 163 feet of scripture. She affirmed “the baptism of Christ” when we were on the tour. When asked if the faces in the sculptures are inspired by her imagination or by photos, she replied, “From my mind.”

Angela expressed her commitment to the veracity of the placard above the cross as she was standing before the statue of the crucifixion. “I want it to be as historically accurate as possible,” she said. “How amazing God is, and how much He really honors faithfulness and determination,” she added, reflecting on the lessons she had learned from the effort.

This $25 million project, which embodies Angela’s spiritual views, is her hallmark piece. “To complete the sculptures for more than 130 statues.” is quite taxing. But, you know, I want to leave a lasting legacy of what was essential to me when I passed away. God and His Son, Jesus Christ, are the most important things in my life, and I want other people to appreciate their beauty as well,” she said.

Visitors finally reach the Tree of Life and the statue of the resurrected Christ after exploring the terraced exhibit and learning about its stories. Angela herself is a part of the art’s personal aspect. “Do you know who that little girl is [standing near the statue of the risen Christ at the Tree of Life]?” I asked one of the guests. Then, as she laughed, Johnson pointed to herself and said, “Yes, it’s me.” When the visitors learned that Johnson was the sculptor, they were shocked.

“Our objective is not to remain and simply consume the fruit [which stands for God’s love] indefinitely. It is who we become after consuming it. And everyone who experiences God’s love naturally wants to assist and bless others,” Angela said.

This is the Ashton Gardens’ second permanent display of Angela Johnson’s artwork. In 2015, her “Light of the World Garden” debuted. Thanksgiving Point is the place to get tickets for the Ashton Gardens.