Utah Valley, nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and Utah Lake — with about 100 different soda shops in between — offers a vibrant and diverse art scenes. From historic museums to contemporary galleries and public art installations, Utah Valley provides a rich tapestry of artistic showcases.
Here's a list of places in Utah County where art enthusiasts can enjoy some world-class art.
Brigham Young University Museum of Art
As one of the largest and most attended art museums in the Mountain West, the BYU Museum of Art offers art experiences that "inspire dialogue and connection with our campus, community, and the world," according to its website.
Visitors can explore a dynamic variety of exhibitions, including displays of its permanent collection, traveling shows and unique temporary exhibitions — all are worth the trip. Visit https://moa.byu.edu for more information.
Springville Museum of Art
Known as Utah's first museum for the visual arts, the Springville Museum of Art has been fostering top-tier art showcases and experiences since 1903. The museum hosts annual exhibitions such as the Spring Salon, summer Quilt Show, a children's art festival and so much more.
"At the Springville Museum of Art, we create welcoming spaces where community, beauty and multiple perspectives meet through engaging and accessible art exhibitions," said their website
Visit https://www.smofa.org/ for more information on this iconic Utah art museum and its upcoming exhibitions.
UVU Museum of Art at Lakemount
Housed in the historic and stunning Lakemount Manor, the UVU Museum of Art offers a unique setting for contemporary art exhibitions. The museum's website emphasizes that it "enhances the University's academic mission and furthers the appreciation and enjoyment of the visual arts for the general public by fostering critical thinking and visual literacy through the interdisciplinary exploration of art, ideas and experience."
To visit this beautiful community museum and for more information, visit https://www.uvu.edu/museum/.
Covey Center for the Arts
Located in downtown Provo, the Covey Center features four art galleries: the Eccles Gallery, the Smoot Secured Gallery, the Center Street Exhibit Gallery and the Upper Gallery. These spaces showcase artists from across Utah and offer diverse visual arts exhibitions.
For more information, visit https://www.provo.gov/1035/Art-Galleries.
Utah County Art Board Gallery
Situated in the heart of Provo, the Utah County Art Board Gallery showcases the diverse artistic talent within Utah County. The gallery offers a range of styles and displays, and is a hub in the community for art lovers in Utah County.
For more information, visit https://www.utahvalley.com/listing/utah-county-art-gallery/150/.
Downtown Provo murals
If you haven't noticed, Provo is full of awesome art, including its building exteriors. In fact, downtown Provo boasts an impressive collection of over 30 murals, transforming the city into an open-air gallery.
These murals, created by local and visiting artists, add vibrant color and cultural narratives to the urban landscape. Visitors can explore these artworks through self-guided tours or participate in the monthly Art Stroll, a free event on the first Friday of every month.
For Explore Utah Valley, Charlie Jensen said, "These are not works you see from typical graffiti artists, but show an array of techniques and styles from varying mural artists — all for free!"
For a preview of the murals and a guide to seeing them, visit https://www.utahvalley.com/blog/post/the-interactive-mural-hunting-guide-in-downtown-provo/
SCERA Center for the Arts – Gallery 101
With a new exhibit every month, the SCERA Center's Gallery 101 is a large space that regularly rotates a variety of locally produced pieces. While you're there, check out what other concerts, cultural events and theatrical performances this art hub has going on.
Curious to see what's happening? Visit https://scera.org/.
Whether it's a casual afternoon stroll or a fun date night you're after, Utah Valley's art scene has something for everyone. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual observer, these destinations offer diverse artistic experiences that will inspire and delight.
For more information on events and other important happenings in Utah County, visit the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce website, https://thechamber.org/.
