Sears Art Museum Features Zion: A National Treasure
Exhibit Opens December 1, 2023, 7 to 8:30 PM.
From December 1, 2023, until January 12, 2024, the Sears Art Museum, a part of Utah Tech University, presents the next stunning exhibition, The Might Five: Zion National Park. Situated just 40 miles from St. George, Zion National Park stands as a breathtaking marvel, drawing over 4 million visitors each year. Since achieving national park status in 1919, Zion has also captured the attention of the artistic community. This exclusive exhibition provides a unique viewpoint by showcasing Zion through the eyes of various artists. The display pays homage to Utah’s inaugural national park, featuring art from the Sears Art Museum and select contemporary pieces by regional artists. “This is a fantastic opportunity to see the many Zion masterpieces in the Sears collection all in one place.” Said, James Peck, Director of the Sears Museum and Curator of the exhibition. “It also offers a spotlight on several talented regional artists who have contributed.”
Much like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon gained recognition through artistic representation, Zion earned its place on the map through the efforts of artist Frank Dellenbaugh. In 1904, Dellenbaugh authored an article titled “A New Valley of Wonders” for Scribner’s magazine, accompanied by photographs. This article not only spread images of Zion far and wide but also initiated a trend where artists became pioneers, storytellers, and custodians of Zion’s immense beauty.
Among the millions who have explored Zion in the last century, thousands were artists. While every visitor is struck by the natural beauty, artists possess a unique ability to immortalize our fleeting impressions. Through their work, we can compare these visual interpretations with our memories. Artists subtly manipulate the landscape, employing colors, subjects, and perspectives to challenge our recollections and perceptions. Thus, images of Zion evolve into visual poems, serving as reminders of our experiences and prompting a fresh perspective on this natural phenomenon.
From the Great White Throne to the Court of the Patriarchs, Zion’s iconic scenes have become part of the national lexicon. The park is consistently among the three busiest in the national park system, alongside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Grand Canyon National Park. With such large crowds, this exhibition provides an opportunity during the winter months to reflect and enjoy the park’s scenery without the usual crowds.
The opening of the exhibition is set for Friday, December 1st, from 7 to 8:30 PM. Guests can also indulge in light refreshments. For further details about the Sears Art Museum at Utah Tech University, please visit www.searart.com. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and admission is always free.
