Chad S. Hawkins began his series of temple artwork in 1989, at the age of seventeen to support his two-year mission in Frankfurt, Germany. Since that time he has visited nearly every continent and traveled to most of the latter-day temples. During his temple visits, he researches their history, construction, and beautiful surroundings. He then returns to his studio to draw the temple by referring to his notes, sketches, and photographs. During this process he has conducted over 100 interviews with temple architects, general authorities, temple presidents and interior designers. "It has been an incredible honor," comments the artist, "to research information about the temples and to spend time with many people from around the world whose faithfulness has helped make over one hundred temples a reality."
The vast number of stories, insights and one of a kind experiences Chad has gathered has made him a favorite guest speaker for nearly two decades. He has shared messages about the temple at hundreds of Institute of Religion devotionals, youth conferences, BYU Women's Conference, and Especially For Youth camps. "Of all the gatherings I have blessed to be a part of, one will always stand out," Chad said. "In September 2007, I met with about thirty members on a military base in Kabul, Afghanistan. Sharing a message about the House of the Lord to faithful men and women serving in the military was humbling beyond belief. Feeling the Spirit in a makeshift chapel, with many of those present dressed in desert fatigues while wearing sidearms will be a treasured memory for the rest of my life."
"Participating in these temple tours is a privilege for me," Chad has said. "There are several unique aspects of these tours. I will render a special drawing for each temple tour. Each individual will receive a limited edition print of one of the temples we will visit. The edition size will be limited to the number traveling on the tour. A unique memory book will be provided you which will allow you to record treasured aspects of our journey. The tours will be further enhanced by fun activities and themes found in the regions we visit. The highlight each tour will be of course be visiting the temples. We will visit several temples, each with its own unique history and story to tell. Learning about the sacrifice and inspiration associated with these monuments to the Lord will enhance your temple experience. For me, visiting several different temples in a short period of time with others who love the temple is always inspiring."