Featured Artists
The 2026 Christmas Crèche Exhibit celebrates artistic expressions of faith from around the world. This year, we are delighted to feature two contemporary artists, both members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: American painter Linda Etherington and New Zealand-born sculptor Leroy Transfield.
Linda Etherington · Painter
I have loved pondering Mary’s relationship with God the Father and with the Son, Jesus Christ, as I painted for this year’s Crèche Exhibit theme, “Peace on Earth.”
I was born in Washington State in 1969, the fourth of seven children, and grew up on a small farm. My dad, an engineer, spent early mornings and late evenings teaching us to milk the cow and throw bales of alfalfa hay. My mom taught me to keep house, bake bread, and paint. At 12, I received my first oil painting set. It was beautiful—like shiny candy.
I earned a BFA in Painting from Brigham Young University in 1991.
Ever since my first baby was a twinkle in my eye, I have been fascinated with the eternal design of families. Seven daughters and 21 grandchildren later, my obsession continues. Children are a gift, mothering is powerful, and families teach us to serve and treasure what matters most.
I am full of awe at the coming forth of the Son of God.
Leroy Transfield · Sculptor
Leroy Transfield is a classical sculptor who loves creating beauty with his hands. Born in New Zealand of Māori and European descent, he grew up in Lower Hutt and began sculpting as a teenager. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Brigham Young University–Hawaii in 1993 and taught sculpture before opening his own studio in Utah, where he has worked for 30 years.
“I get to do what I love, which is sculpting people in the round,” he says. “Sculpture is a wonderful form of expression… to transfer an idea or a feeling and give it form and space brings great peace and satisfaction.”
His recent work includes three large bronze sculptures for Temple Square in Salt Lake City, among them Joseph Smith Receives the Plates. Other projects range from the U.S. Mint’s 2018 World War I Centennial silver dollar to a large bronze figure for Wahiawa, Hawaii.
Leroy and his wife, Kelly, have five children and five grandchildren.