There is no story to match the drama of the birth of Jesus Christ. The miracle of his conception, Mary's travail and young Joseph's frustrated efforts to find adequate lodging, the rustic setting in which the babe was born, the triumphant angelic announcement, the shepherds' wonder and awe, and the import of His birth have for centuries inspired countless poets, writers, and artists.

Now comes Joseph Brickey's breath-taking rendering of these sacred scenes, some of them never previously depicted. Drawing his inspiration from the scriptures and the Latter-day Saint understanding of the Lord's identity, the artist brings a fresh perspective and dynamic energy to the nativity of Christ. These paintings portray in spectacular fashion the emotions that are at the heart of Christmas — the humble circumstances of His birth, Mary's love for her baby, and the portent of the Savior's mission. In a style reminiscent of the old Masters, the artist has used color, light, and a wonderful grasp of form and composition to create a panorama of beautiful paintings, filled with symbolism and produced exclusively for this magnificent picture book.

Even a glance will reveal that Joseph Brickey has achieved a masterpiece — a spectacular body of art that will enable you and your family to read the Christmas story in a whole new way and transport you to the time when Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

Joseph Brickey was reared in St. George, Utah. A graduate of Brigham Young University with a bachelor of fine arts degree, he believes that "art should both measure up in the museum and capture the common heart. The greatest art is that which generates the greatest good." His award-winning paintings have appeared in Church publications and been displayed in both the Springville Museum of Art and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Joseph is the fourth of twelve children born to Wayne and Joanne Brickey and resides in Orem, Utah.