Church History Pieces on Permanent Display

February 2023

Brigham Young University-Idaho is pleased to announce the opening of the new Purpose of Life display in the BYU-Idaho Center. This new, permanent exhibit showcases the original Purpose of Life mural that was painted for and displayed at the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair in the pavilion of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The exhibit also includes the Japanese Purpose of Life mural that was painted for and displayed at the 1970 Osaka Japan World Exposition. An estimated 12.5 million people saw one or the other of these murals during their visits to these fairs. The murals taught visitors about Jesus Christ, the Restoration of the gospel, and Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness for His children. Many members of the Church will recognize the Purpose of Life mural from the New York World’s Fair; it was used by the Church for years afterward, as was the short movie produced for the fair, Man’s Search for Happiness. Accompanied by historical documents and records, the murals are on display in the BYU-Idaho Center for visitors to learn more about this unique piece of Church history and doctrine.