SALT LAKE CITY, UT.- What better way to celebrate your 60th anniversary than with an exceptional art exhibition? The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is pleased to present ArtNow, a biennial exhibition of artwork in commemoration of the 60th anniversary of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Utah. From March 11 through May 10, 2009, the UMFA’s Great Hall and first-floor galleries will boast new works from eighteen University of Utah Art and Art History Department faculty members. Art Now reflects new trends in contemporary art as well as traditional practices in a variety of media, including ceramics, printmaking, painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, digital imaging, and video.

“The UMFA is honored to present the work of such a distinguished group of artists
– especially on this momentous occasion,” explains Jill Dawsey, UMFA Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art. “These faculty artists are dynamic teachers who are vital to the University community, challenging students to engage their imaginations and cultivating of new generations of talented artists. Yet the high caliber of work this faculty produces also resonates throughout the broader local community, enriching the growing culture of visual arts here in Salt Lake City and beyond.”

Featured artists include: Edward Bateman, Larel Caryn, Alison Denyer, Justin Diggle, Dave Eddy, John Erickson, Beth Krensky, Joe Marotta, Kim Martinez, Ray Morales, John O’Connell, David Pendell, Brian Snapp, Carol Sogard, Paul Stout, Maureen O’Hara Ure and Sam Wilson.

This group of acclaimed artists’ work honors the rich legacy of visual arts at the University of Utah begun in 1888. The College of Fine Arts was founded in 1948 to encompass the departments of art and art history, ballet, film, modern dance, theater and music. Each of these art forms will be celebrated during the 60th anniversary through a series of speakers, exhibitions and performances from March 7 -13, 2009.