ArtsMuse

The Chase Home exhibition “The ‘Ilisapesi Collection” showcases the works of Polynesian fashion designer Denise Kaafi. The show presents a collection of textiles and garments that form a tribute to the designer’s grandmother, ‘Ilisapesi. Born in New Zealand and raised in Tonga, Denise draws on her Tongan and Māori ancestry to create one-of-a-kind gowns, costumes, and traditional pieces. Visitors will see a fusion of fashion and culture, where intricate designs incorporate natural materials unique to the Pacific Islands, grounding modern creations in traditional roots. 

Our Living Folk Arts Education workshop series is accepting applications. This free program allows folk artists from the UA&M Teaching Artists roster to offer hands-on workshops to schools and community groups around the state. Groups can select from a wide range of traditional arts workshops taught by Utah folk artists. You can hold a workshop at the Chase Home Museum in Salt Lake City or arrange to have the artist come to your location. 

Grant final reports are open! All our grantees have been emailed report details. You can also check the grantee resources page for info about specific grants and reports. Please ensure you complete your report by the deadline! Final payments will be processed once your report is submitted and approved.

Are you interested in a reading or workshop with Utah Poet Laureate Lisa Bickmore for your school or community group? Learn more at the link about booking an appearance. Requests are honored based on the nature of the request and the availability of the poet laureate.

Our sister agency, the America250 Utah commission, is organizing events in the state to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Your organization can get involved by requesting a branding kit on the America250 Utah website. 

Our agency is proud to support the Culture Connects conference, produced by the Utah Cultural Alliance Foundation. Culture Connects is a statewide convening rooted in connection, collaboration, and collective impact. This year’s theme, “Advancing Story, Stewardship, and Shared Impact,” calls us to deepen how we tell our stories, care for our communities, and work together to strengthen Utah’s creative economy. Join us Wednesday, May 13, at the Utah Cultural Celebration Center. 

UA&M’s Public Art Program is excited to announce a new request for qualifications for the Department of Public Safety Evidence Warehouse building. This RFQ is open to artists or artist teams residing in Utah. The Art Selection Committee is seeking to commission multiple interior works, with installation opportunities being available throughout several areas. Artworks are being solicited for both public and employee-only areas, and should focus on explorations of Utah’s natural beauty. The budget is $91,000; apply by May 11.