Hurry, Minerva Teichert's Western art about to leave the corral
Today, I took a long lunch and treated myself to an art exhibit -- "Minerva Teichert Revisited," at the Brigham City Museum-Gallery.
Coincidentally, while I was there, the museum staff decided to extend the show through Saturday, March 24 -- it was supposed to end on Thursday, March 22 -- so now you have more time to treat yourself to the exhibit as well.
Minerva Teichert (1888-1976) is perhaps best known for her religious paintings, but this exhibit shows her skill in painting portraits and florals, and capturing the scenery of the West.
Among my favorite pieces on exhibit are "Portrait of Barbara," an image of a beautiful woman dressed in white, with just a hint of a smile on her calm face, and "Wedding Flowers," an impressionistic painting of pink roses.
Most of the art on display is Western in theme. Teichert was born in North Ogden, but spent much of her life ranching in Idaho and Wyoming. A watercolor self-portrait with a horse, and a pen and ink drawing of two cows, titled "Minerva and Herman" after the artist and her husband, are part of the exhibit.
"Pioneers: Water Scene" is a large painting worth the trip to Brigham City to see, as are "Indian Captives at Night" and "Relay" (be sure to notice the border Teichert painted around "Relay").
The large paintings are impressive, but the small watercolors created by Teichert are a lot of fun. "Runaway Pony" features a horse leaving behind the cowboy he's bucked off. "In the Wagon" isn't big on details, but the artist conveyed a great sense of movement through the pulling stance of the horses, and the tilt of the wagon.
Budding artists looking for a little encouragement should check out a piece called "Student Sketch, Cowboys and Child." The painting shows perspective lines, and is clearly marked in red with the score given by the teacher -- 85.
If you like what you see in "Minerva Teichert Revisited," you can buy a copy of the exhibit. The museum is selling a small book, with pictures of each of the pieces on display, for $10.
While you're at the Brigham City Museum-Gallery, you might want to check out the local history exhibits. Among my favorite pieces are a sword owned by one of Brigham Young's bodyguards and a peach-colored pioneer dress embellished with beautiful beading. There are also examples of Shoshone clothing, with more marvelous beading, and hands-on history activities for kids.
The Brigham City Museum-Gallery is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, at 24 N. 300 West. Admission is free. For information, call 435-226-1439.