Wyoming Arts Council

New Deal exhibit opens May 1 at Wyoming State Museum


newdeal

Press release from SPCR PIO Gary Schoene:

The Wyoming State Museum opens a new temporary exhibit, “Art as Work, Work as Art: Wyoming’s New Deal Legacy,” May 1. The exhibit will remain on display through February 1.

An opening reception for the exhibit is scheduled for May 2, 5 – 7 p.m. The reception features light fare compliments of Texas Roadhouse and Anadarko Petroleum Corporation. Kids’ activities will also be available.

“This exhibit was inspired by the rescue and restoration of a painting funded by a New Deal program,” Museum Registrar Dominique Schultes said.

The exhibit features photographs and displays of New Deal art and architecture from throughout Wyoming. The fact that many of these items are not appreciated for what they represent is the basis for the exhibit.

“There is an adage that ‘familiarity breeds contempt,’” Schultes said. “Sadly in the case of New Deal artwork and architecture this appears to be true. For many, the art and buildings have ‘always been there’ so their presence is accepted rather than appreciated. The painting that inspired this exhibit was salvaged from the trash.”

Nationwide, hundreds or New Deal are and construction still exist. It is hoped that this exhibit will raise awareness of the historic value of these works.

The Wyoming State Museum is located in the Barrett Building, 2301 Central Avenue in Cheyenne. For more information about this and other State Museum programs and activities, please call 777-7022.


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