The Museum will be closed on Monday, July 24
Happy Pioneer Day weekend! The Museum will be closed on Monday to give us a chance to celebrate, recognize, and express gratitude for the pioneers who sacrificed and paved the path for our current lives. Many early pioneers chose to express the thoughts and feelings that resulted from their challenging journeys in painting, song, and text. As we admire and appreciate their creations, we can gain more insight into the lives they lived and the reasons they gave up so much for their faith.
The following activities are centered around pioneer history and culture and can easily be completed from your own home!
Try out this open studio at home activity to get a glimpse through Mahonri Young’s eyes at the western landscapes of his childhood. Young was an American artist that trained and studied all around the world but was raised in Utah where he saw the hard work and dedication of his pioneer parents and community.
Add your own touches to this 1878 painting of the Nauvoo Temple by pioneer artist C.C.A Christensen. Christensen, a convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, participated in the trek to Utah. Get creative with this coloring page of his original artwork.
Explore Maynard Dixon’s renderings of the West, beloved by early settlers, in this virtual gallery of the current MOA exhibit, Searching for a Home. While Dixon’s work came after the pioneers had arrived and settled in Utah, his portrayals of the West’s natural beauty are a reminder of the sacrifices and blessings they experienced.
As you enjoy this day of family, remembrance, and celebration, we look forward to welcoming you back to the MOA this Tuesday when we reopen! Happy Pioneer Day!
