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Art in Person, Near and Far

There is something different about seeing the greatest masterpieces in history up close and in person versus in a textbook or on a screen.

There is something different about seeing the greatest masterpieces in history up close and in person versus in a textbook or on a screen. This last summer when I went to Italy, the number one thing on my to-do list was to see Michelangelo’s David in Florence. I had seen pictures of this sculpture many times during my humanities studies, but being in the presence of this magnificent statue was so dreamlike and awesome I couldn’t be pulled away. I happened to see the Pietà in Rome as well, which was so powerful I cried as I joined the crowd of onlookers.

I have seen a replica of the Pietà in person before, in Salt Lake City. It is a beautiful, impactful piece of artwork, even as a replica. Seeing the original, though? That was transcendent.

From Michaelangelo to Mahonri-Young to modern artists, seeing artist creations in person is just plain cool. It inspires and enlivens the spirit, edifies the mind, and uplifts the heart. Whether you are in a museum, a county art gallery, or out on the street, it is worthwhile to take time to appreciate the art around you.

Some of my favorite art to find is street art—the murals and sculptures and sometimes chalk art that can be found while out on the town. Springville, Utah, has several sculptures on main street, including a gentleman reading a book on a bench and a moose in the street that I see every day on my commute. I especially love the modern street art in Phoenix, Arizona, where I first saw sculptures of people doing everyday things right next to the everyday foot traffic. And who doesn’t get excited about finding walls and corners with wings painted on them? These are the perfect photo opportunities! Keep an eye out for them and you will find some from Provo, Utah, to North Shore in Oahu, Hawaii.

As humans, we have been expressing ourselves through art since the very beginning, and we always will. You don’t have to go very far to find beautiful, interesting, fun, or emotional pieces. Take a stroll around your city hall, wander downtown, or check out a museum while you travel. Don’t miss the chance to see the goodness of human creation with your own eyes.