28 February - 17 May 2009
Famous American artist, Thomas Moran declared, “I decided very early that I would be an American painter. I traveled the country over, and the west appealed to me. There is no phase of landscape in which we are not richer, more varied and interesting than any country in the world.” In celebration of the unique and varied landscape of the west, the Springville Museum of Art will open its new exhibit, Redrock, Sage & Pinon with its accompanying book by Museum Director, Dr. Vern G. Swanson & Dr. Donna Poulton, Painters of Utah’s Canyons and Deserts.
Uncharted and untamed, the American West became for some a retreat from the everyday brick and stone masonry of city life. With eastern audiences of the 20th century clamoring for a glimpse of the rich, romantic and diverse canyon countries, artists of the time were more than eager to provide. While some of the public experienced its grandeur through magazines like National Geographic, others were shown the unmatched analysis of line, shape, texture and form of the Utah canyon country through artwork. The artists’ study and experience sharpened the ability to capture the wild yet tranquil landscapes of the Utah country.
The exhibit, which spans over 100 years, includes such artists as Maynard Dixon, John Fery and Alfred Lambourne. Featuring the raw and untamed beauty of the Wild West, each work highlights the depth and wonder of canyons and deserts unique to Utah. With the striking contrast of the bright blue sky against the red rock, it is no wonder why artists were drawn to the National Parks and Monuments including Zion National Park, Bryce National Park, Backcountry Arches, Bridges, and Monuments, the Grand Staircase-Escalante and Capitol Reef.
 Whether native to Utah or a visitor, viewers can enjoy the rich history of the Utah rocks and deserts on display. Imbedded in American history, the picturesque landscapes of the Utah frontier are timeless. Surrounded by its beauty, it is clear why artists of all kinds flocked to the deserts and canyons of the Utah landscape. From painters and naturalists to filmmakers, the landscape of Utah has won the hearts of both viewers and artists alike, John Ford affording, “Monument Valley was [my] greatest star.”
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