Logan Artists Group (Logan, Utah)

On June 21, 1943, a group of professional artists in Logan, UT created the Logan Artists Group. By combining efforts the artists aimed to avoid public misconceptions concerning art, especially modern art. This joint effort also allowed the artists increased opportunities to exhibit their art at a variety of statewide venues. Starting with the eight charter members, the group offered memberships to other professional artists and art teachers. Additionally, honorary memberships were awarded to community members with an active interest in art.

The Logan Artist Group met monthly. Usually these meetings featured a discussion on upcoming exhibits and a lecture on an art-related topic. Since a number of members were employed at the Art Department at the Utah State Agricultural College (now Utah State University), the topics discussed were quite diverse.

The group had a strong influence in Logan as well as around the state. A "picture of the month" exhibit allowed the group to regularly show paintings at the Logan Library. Exhibitions were also shown at the Salt Lake Art Center (otherwise known as the Art Barn), the Budge Clinic, State Fairs, and the State Capitol. In addition, the group contributed a scholarship of $35 each year to an outstanding art student at either a local high school or the college. The group also lobbied state officials on issues involving the arts in Utah. The Logan Artists Group eventually became part of the Federated Artists of Utah, a statewide art group.

Twenty years after its founding, the group finally disbanded in the early 1960s because a number of members had died or moved away. A final donation of materials for art appreciation courses was made to the Fine Arts Department at Utah State University.

Sources:

Olpin, Robert. Dictionary of Utah Art (1980).

Swanson, Vern G. Utah Art (1991).

From the guide to the Logan Artists Group papers, 1943-1961, (Utah State University. Special Collections and Archives)