SALT LAKE CITY -- A new exhibit has been unveiled at the Museum of Church History and Art to help children enjoy and learn from art. The title of the exhibit, "And We Lived After the Manner of Happiness: A Children's Exhibit for Families," comes from a reference in the Book of Mormon when the prophet Nephi said his family "lived after the manner of happiness."
Museum director Glen M. Leonard says the display of 17 paintings and sculptures is organized to encourage children and adults to talk together about the artistic and spiritual ideas presented in the art."The exhibit team has prepared colorful, child-friendly labels to appeal to younger children," Leonard said.
"Teenagers and adults will enjoy reading the art interpretations written at a higher reading level. They will be encouraged to function as the tour guides and talk with children about the messages of the art in the exhibit."
"We have selected paintings and sculptures that show family members engaged in activities that bring them inner peace," says curator Cecil Nugent.
Those activities include "honoring promises made to each other and to God, serving one another, remembering ancestors, nurturing children and working and playing together."
Featured Latter-day Saint artists include Gary Kapp, Walter Rane, Judith Mehr and Lee Udall Bennion along with photographer George Edward Anderson.
Museum docents will be on hand for tours and to answer questions. The exhibition runs from April 22 through Feb. 19, 2001. The museum is directly west of Temple Square at 45 N. West Temple in Salt Lake City, a half block north of the Temple Square TRAX station.
The museum is open seven days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and most holidays. Group tours can be arranged by calling (801) 240-4615. For recorded information, dial 801-240-3310.