Bent Franklin Larsen (1882-1970),
Onion Harvest, c.1939, oil on canvas, 33 × 27 inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, 1941.
In this painting, two men gather onions in the crisp low light of an autumn afternoon. The strong browns, grays and oranges of the landscape compete with their labor as a presence in the scene – a tribute to the men’s hard-earned efforts and the gift of the land. B.F. Larsen was an influential force in Utah’s art scene in the early 20th century and played a key role in building he Brigham Young University’s art collection. He considered the visual arts as a vital component of a well-rounded education. As head of the art department, Larsen worked with artists and administrators to acquire over 1,000 paintings, including many by notable Utah artists. He donated this and other sketches and paintings to the University in 1941.