A stunning array of three new visual art exhibits will be housed inside the St. George Art Museum through Oct. 17. These exhibits include miniature drawings, prints, a scintillating photography show and a deeper look at a crowning historical achievement from the 19th century.

“The pieces are magnificent. They are truly a feast for the eyes,” said Gary Sanders, Art Museum Manager and Curator. “We are really excited to be able to house these three exhibits so that our whole community can enjoy them.”

Start downstairs with “Petite Portrayals,” which offers a view into some of the smallest pieces by well-known artists hand-picked from the St. George Art Museum’s permanent collection. From watercolors to intaglio prints, Petite Portrayals showcases a variety of craftsmanship and artistry by Minerva Teichert, Carl Purcell and the famed Rembrandt van Rijin.

Upstairs, Shirley Smith’s photography passions are evident in “Alternative Vision.” Her infrared light and macro (close-up) images take the viewer on a colorful journey of visual delights, providing an opportunity to see the world in a different way.

“I want to capture the feelings, colors and textures the world provides for us to see and experience,” said Smith, who serves as the President of the Color Country Camera Club.

The grand accomplishment of the Transcontinental Railroad is on display in the second floor’s Legacy Gallery. In “Utah’s Railroads,” watch as construction of this engineering marvel came to fruition, culminating in the famous photo of the “golden spike” driven into the ground May 10, 1869.

These exhibits can all be seen for free. The Art Museum has also stopped charging an entrance fee and has expanded its hours. Patrons can visit Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. — Mondays and Tuesdays are reserved for groups or individuals who are at a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms.

“These changes will allow us to provide all citizens equal opportunity to engage with art,” Sanders said. “We anticipate that these changes will increase first-time visitors. For those who wish to pay, we will happily accept donations. These donations help us land great exhibits and provide educational programs for the community.”

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