The Legacy of Fine Art in Utah

Despite Utah being home to more fine artists per capita than any other state, the walls of many Utah homes are adorned with cheap reproductions and uninspired prints. In a place brimming with artistic talent, where world-class painters capture the beauty of its landscapes and culture, the opportunity to own original Utah paintings often goes overlooked. But institutions like Zions Bank’s art collection and passionate advocates are working to change that narrative, fostering a deeper appreciation for Utah’s thriving art scene and its extraordinary creators.

How Institutions Like Zions Bank Support Local Art

This commitment to Utah fine art isn’t new. In 1890, painters like John Hafen and Lorus Pratt, talented but lacking formal art education, were sent to Paris by the LDS Church to study art history and fine art techniques. These missions, fully funded by the church, had a specific purpose: upon their return, the artists would be equipped to create high-quality works for a growing church art collection. This initiative marked the beginning of the church’s long-standing support for fine arts in Utah, with church presidents continuing to expand their holdings and set an example by supporting local artists.

While these paintings served to disseminate church culture and doctrine, the commitment to supporting local artists extended beyond religious purposes. The church’s patronage set a precedent for valuing fine art in the community, inspiring other institutions to follow suit. One notable example is Zions Bank’s Utah art collection, also founded by Brigham Young, which has amassed a remarkable collection of art created by Utah artists over the years. The effort was spearheaded by Tibby Simmons, mother of the bank’s chairman, Harris Simmons.

“When you think of the millions of dollars that Zions Bank has put into local art, it starts with Tibby,” says Kathy Wilson, owner of Trolley Art Collective in Salt Lake City.

Today, Zions Bank owns 4,100 original paintings and employs an art consultant to help curate its growing collection. Bank offices and branches double as gallery spaces, showcasing a variety of works, primarily Western landscapes. In celebration of its 150th anniversary, the bank commissioned a contemporary still-life by Helper artist Ben Steele, reflecting its history. Zions Bank remains committed to supporting Utah artists, aiming to continue its patronage well into its next century.

Encouraging Art Investment in Utah Homes

“I would say we’re calling on more companies to know the local art market, to support a broad range of artists, and to create an art collection,” says Wilson, a passionate advocate for private-public art collections. She stresses the importance of cultivating private collections in Utah, a state experiencing rapid growth and increasing wealth.

New Utah residents often invest in high-end architecture and interior design but may overlook the opportunity to hand-select artwork for their walls. Instead, they settle for mass-produced reproductions, missing the chance to acquire meaningful local art. Gallerists hope to encourage these homeowners to explore Utah’s thriving art scene and become patrons of homegrown talent.

Utah Artists Gaining National Recognition

While the University of Utah and Brigham Young University produce a significant number of talented painters—giving Utah the highest per capita number of working fine artists in the country—much of their work is sold out of state. Utah’s top painters are in high demand in major art markets like Jackson Hole, Scottsdale, and New York City. Yet, the walls of Utah homes often feature bland prints or reproductions instead of the remarkable original Utah paintings created right here.

Take Michelle Condrat, for instance. Known for her vivid, architectural landscapes, the Salt Lake City native and University of Utah graduate paints scenes of Zion National Park and other iconic landscapes. Condrat’s work is highly sought after, often selling out at events like the Zion National Park Plein Air Invitational and the Grand Canyon Celebration of Art.

How to Start Your Own Art Collection

Investing in a painting by an established artist like Condrat or Steele can yield long-term value, with works often increasing in worth as the artist’s career progresses. In uncertain economic times, such investments also offer diversification while bringing joy to collectors. Collecting art allows buyers to connect deeply with the artist, the genre, or the landscape depicted, creating a meaningful and personal experience.

Although paintings from seasoned artists can command tens of thousands of dollars, starting a collection doesn’t require a large budget. “All it takes is a little bit of education to find high-quality paintings that you can afford,” Wilson says. Newer artists offer more accessible price points, especially at festivals or plein air competitions, and the satisfaction of choosing a piece that resonates personally is unmatched.

Gallery strolls are an excellent starting point for art education. These events, while social, are also an opportunity to discover the colors, styles, and themes that speak to you. “Like good old Hafen and Pratt, you can go out and gather an education,” Wilson says. Engaging with gallerists and asking questions about specific works can lead to informed and satisfying purchases. Supporting emerging artists not only enhances your home but also contributes to the local art community’s vitality.

“So that’s why it’s so important for a community to realize the value of art,” Wilson concludes. “The whole basis for a community, the creativity and the depth of a community, is based really on supporting local artists.”

Feature Image: Kathy Wilson of Trolley Art Collective, is passionate about local art. Photo by John Taylor.