Art enthusiasts and history buffs alike are in for a treat as Spring City Arts unveils its inaugural traveling exhibit from the State of Utah’s Division of Arts and Museums. Housed in the newly renovated Spring City Activity Center located on Spring City Square (150 East Center Street, Spring City), this exhibit promises to be a cornerstone of the community’s cultural summer offerings.

The exhibit, titled “125 Years of Collecting: Selections from the State of Utah’s Alice Art Collection,” celebrates the rich history and diversity of Utah’s artistic legacy. The collection, established in 1899, was the brainchild of Alice Merrill Horne, who drafted the Art Bill that Gov. Heber M. Wells signed into law, creating the Utah Art Institute — America’s first state-run arts agency. This initiative aimed to support and preserve the works of Utah artists, a mission that continues to this day under the Utah Division of Arts and Museums.

2024 marks the 125th anniversary of this pioneering institution, which has significantly expanded its role in developing the state’s cultural communities. The Alice Art Collection now boasts over 1,200 artworks, encompassing a wide range of mediums, themes, and genres. Visitors can expect to see everything from traditional oil paintings to modern photography, folk arts, video installations, and performance art. Artworks from this prestigious collection are prominently displayed in significant locations such as the Governor’s Mansion, the Utah State Capitol, and various public spaces within state agencies.

This traveling exhibit offers a unique opportunity to view a curated selection of artworks that span decades, highlighting both recent acquisitions and early masterpieces. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Utah’s artistic expressions and the state’s commitment to nurturing its cultural heritage.

The exhibit will be on display at the Spring City Arts Gallery until the first week of July. The gallery is open Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. In addition to the state’s collection, visitors will also have the chance to explore a variety of local artworks featured in the gallery, showcasing the vibrant talent within the community.

Ted Hinckley, a key contact for the event, expressed his excitement about the exhibit: “We are thrilled to host this remarkable collection and invite everyone to come and experience the artistic richness of Utah. It’s an honor to bring such an important part of our state’s cultural history to Spring City.”

For more information about the exhibit, you can reach Ted Hinckley at 310-489-8964 or via email at ted.hinckley@gmail.com.

This exhibit not only celebrates the historical journey of Utah’s art scene but also underscores the ongoing efforts to support and promote local artists. Spring City Arts, with its new space and commitment to fostering the arts, continues to be a beacon for cultural enrichment in Sanpete County. Don’t miss this chance to dive into 125 years of artistic excellence and discover the stories and talents that have shaped Utah’s vibrant art community.