ANTELOPE ISLAND—Inspiration for a painting can really come from anywhere. It could be a cherished pet, a scenic vista, a loved one, or famous scene from a play or film. Often, however, the hard part is just getting started. Virginia Catherall, curator of education, family programs, community outreach and other programs is aiming to make that first step easier with events like “UMFA in the Wild” coming up at the end of the month, Aug. 31.

Although “it’s not a formal class,” according to Catherall, it’s a great opportunity for pros and beginners alike to “just dive in and try something.” That, says Catherall, is one of the biggest upsides of a painting event like this: community. While not a class per se, everyone at the event benefits from being around one another, and painting with one another. “When you make art together,” said Catherall, “it becomes a social thing.”

Even with some experienced watercolor painters in attendance, Catherall says that newcomers shouldn’t get intimidated, “If you can hold a brush, you can paint.” This has been evidenced by past UMFA in the Wild events, where not only adults, but kids of all ages have dived right in alongside parents and siblings putting pictures on paper. In fact, said Catherall, that’s one of the most special things she’s seen during these events: children having the opportunity to teach their parents, instead of the other way around.

In addition to learning to paint, and coming together as a community, UMFA in the Wild is also about the wild. “Doing art in nature,” said Catherall, “is one of my main goals in life.” Part of that is the amazing inspiration nature provides, especially in Utah, but another part is about conservation. Catherall hopes that painting these beautiful scenes will help inspire people to “strive to protect them,” and to see the importance of keeping these places wild, and protected. 

Fostering creativity, a sense of community, and an increased appreciation and responsibility for nature, UMFA in the Wild goes a long way for many different aspects of the community, especially here in Davis County. Not to mention, events like these are a great way to break up the monotony, whether that’s a new and unique date, a family outing, or just a good way to practice personal improvement. 

The UMFA in the Wild Watercolor Landscapes event will be held on Antelope Island at Buffalo Point Deck on Aug. 31 at 1 p.m. The event itself is free, with materials provided, but attendees will still need to pay regular park entrance fees. More details on this and other events hosted by the Utah Museum of Fine Arts can be found at umfa.utah.edu/list/event-type/art-making.