Angel on the Spiral Jetty By Susan Kirby
For the past few months, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to help organize Replenish, an art auction and exhibition, in partnership with the Utah Cultural Celebration Center (UCCC) and Making Waves. This event brings together artists who share a deep connection to Great Salt Lake and are using their work to celebrate its beauty and advocate for its future.
Throughout history, art has played a pivotal role in inspiring people to protect the landscapes they love. Photographers like Ansel Adams and painters like Thomas Moran didn’t just capture the beauty of the American West—they ignited movements that led to the protection of national parks and wilderness areas. Art has the power to move people, to shift perspectives, and to spark action. Each piece in this collection carries that same spirit, telling a story of the lake’s significance through the eyes of those who cherish it.
As an artist myself, I know how difficult it can be to donate your work—which is why it’s been especially humbling to witness these artists generously donate their time and talent to support this cause. Seeing these works displayed together, each capturing an artist’s personal connection to the lake, is a striking reminder of what’s at stake and why protecting Great Salt Lake is so critical.
Come visit the gallery in person and see for yourself how these artists have used their talent and creativity to advocate for Great Salt Lake. And if you’d like to take a piece home, bidding is open online through April 10th.
To celebrate the exhibition, we’re hosting a free public event on April 4th from 6–9 PM at the UCCC. The evening will feature live music, refreshments, and a silent auction, offering a chance to connect with fellow art and lake lovers. From 6–7 PM, we’ll also have a community art build, where you can create pelican origami and brine shrimp finger puppets with Making Waves Collaborative.
We hope you’ll take the time to experience this incredible body of work and its message. The exhibition is open through April 10th—don’t miss it!