UMOCA’s New Mobile Art Exhibition Explores the Complex Interplay Between Humanity’s Needs and Environmental Impact

(Salt Lake City, UT—September 20, 2023) – The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA) is excited to announce that the Art Truck will be hitting the road again this school year with a compelling new exhibition by artist and researcher Nina Elder. The exhibition, What Sustains, features intricate large-scale drawings that narrate authentic stories about the complex relationships between humanity and nature. In this roving exhibition, students are encouraged to engage with Elder’s thought-provoking artworks and contemplate the impact of mining and deforestation. These altered landscapes represent the enduring footprint of industry, and act as both scars on the land and reminders of the vital resources that support humanity’s needs. What Sustains will be on view through August 1, 2024, as it embarks on a journey to schools and community events statewide.

The UMOCA Art Truck brings exciting and accessible contemporary art, created by leading local and national artists, directly to schools and community venues across the state free of charge. In the 2021-22 school year the Art Truck served over 9,000 students throughout Utah and visited 50 schools and community events from Logan to Escalante. Each visit includes the expertise of a trained museum art educator who leads students through a meaningful exploration of the exhibition. Teachers are provided with structured lesson plans to supplement their tour and integrate the Art Truck into their curriculum.

The UMOCA Art Truck is made possible by support from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Utah State Board of Education POPS, Salt Lake County ZAP, the Richard K. and Shirley S. Hemingway Foundation, and the Promontory Foundation. These funds directly benefit students across the state of Utah.