As a Provo local, I've always been captivated by the Brigham Young University Museum of Art, a gem that's not just free but a haven of tranquility and inspiration.
What truly sets it apart for me, beyond its serene ambiance, is the vibrant tapestry of events it hosts. These gatherings are not mere events; they're a celebration of art, culture, and community that continually renew my appreciation for the creative spirit.
Each visit is a unique journey through the rich world of art, making the BYU Museum of Art an unforgettable part of my Provo experience.
Brigham Young University Museum of Art: History and Architecture
The Brigham Young University Museum of Art, a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence, is one of the largest and most attended art museums in the Mountain West.
Mahoni Mackintosh Young was one of Brigham Young’s grandsons. Mahonri donated his own artwork to the BYU. His generosity was contagious. Other artists began donating their artwork as well. The art collection grew and grew. Soon there was not enough space to display it all!
That’s when the idea for the BYU Museum of Art was born.
Since its inauguration in 1993, the museum has been a space where art and education converge, nestled in the heart of BYU's scenic campus in Provo.
Designed by Los Angeles architect James Langenheim with contributions from the Smithsonian Institution, the Getty Museum, and the National Gallery of Art, the BYU Museum of Art now stands as a grandiose structure as world-class as the art pieces it houses.
The building is a masterpiece, blending modern aesthetics with a functionality that enhances the viewer's experience. Its expansive galleries house a diverse collection ranging from classical to contemporary art, offering visitors a rich tapestry of human expression and creativity through the ages.
Here's my blog post about the tours I did at the BYU Museum of Art: Brigham Young University Museum of Art in Provo. From the best exhibits to what to order on their famous MOA Cafe, I got them all covered!
Brigham Young University (BYU) Museum of Art Location and Opening Hours
Located at the heart of Brigham Young University's campus in Provo, Utah, the BYU Museum of Art is easily accessible to students, faculty, and the broader community for free.
BYU Museum of Art is located at North Campus Drive, Provo, UT 84602.
The museum is open Monday through Saturday, with hours that accommodate both early birds and late-afternoon explorers.
Monday, Thursday, Friday - 10 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday - 10 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
For specific opening hours and holiday schedules, visitors are encouraged to check the museum's official website or contact the museum directly.
BYU MOA Events 2025
Each event at the BYU MOA is thoughtfully crafted to offer unique perspectives on art and creativity, making every visit a memorable experience.
Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or new to the art world, the BYU Museum of Art's events calendar has something to inspire everyone.
What Kind of Events Can I Attend at BYU MOA?
The BYU Museum of Art offers a dynamic range of events designed to engage, educate, and inspire visitors of all ages. Click on the link to each event for more details.
Exhibits
Seasonally rotating displays that feature works from international artists, thematic art collections, and historical art movements.
- The Difficult Part
Date and Time: August 16, 2024, through May 3, 2025
Discover one of the most heartfelt and spiritually rich art exhibitions in Utah County this year at the BYU Museum of Art. The Difficult Part: Brian Kershisnik - John Held, Jr.
Date and Time: December 6, 2024 - April 26, 2025
Step back in time and experience the charm, humor, and energy of the Jazz Age at the BYU Museum of Art’s John Held, Jr. Exhibition. - Kéyah
Date and Time: January 24 to April 26, 2025
Experience a breathtaking journey of reverence, healing, and cultural reflection through Kéyah: Our Home, an immersive art installation by Diné (Navajo) artist Eugene Tapahe - From the Vault
Date and Time: January 10 through December 2025
Step into Church history through art at "From the Vault: Envisioning the Early Latter Days," an inspiring exhibition at the BYU Museum of Art.
Art Workshops
Hands-on sessions where participants can learn new techniques, from traditional painting to digital art, under the guidance of experienced artists and educators.
- Van Gogh to Play Dough August: Feelings
Date and Time: August 1, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Join this interactive workshop designed for young children, where they can express emotions through art, inspired by Van Gogh's masterpieces. - Van Gogh to Play Dough September: Harvest Season
Date and Time: September 3, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Celebrate the harvest season with your little ones in this playful art session, blending creativity with seasonal themes.
Lecture Series
Engaging talks by art historians, contemporary artists, and scholars that provide deeper insights into current exhibitions and art trends.
- Reconciliation Gallery Talk with Curator Isaac King
Date and Time: September 18, 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
Gain insights into the 'Reconciliation' exhibition from Curator Isaac King, exploring themes of conflict and resolution in art. - 'Off Kilter, On Point' Gallery Talk with Liz Donakey
Date and Time: October 16, 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
Join Liz Donakey for an engaging discussion on the 'Off Kilter, On Point' exhibition, examining contemporary art's playful and precise nature. - 'The Difficult Part' Gallery Talk with MOA Director Janalee Emmer
Date and Time: November 20, 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
Discover the complexities of the 'The Difficult Part' exhibition with insights from MOA Director Janalee Emmer. - 'John Held, Jr.' Gallery Talk with Guest Curator Glen Nelson
Date and Time: December 11, 12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
Explore the life and works of John Held, Jr. with Guest Curator Glen Nelson, highlighting the artist's impact on modern art. - 'From the Vault' Gallery Talk with Jannalee Emmer
Date and Time: April 16, 2025 12:10 PM to 12:40 PM
Step into the story behind the art at the BYU Museum of Art during a special Gallery Talk with MOA Director Janalee Emmer. This engaging, 30-minute event is the final Gallery Talk of the semester, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! - 'From the Vault Gallery' Talk with Kitsa Oteo + Free Postcards
Date and Time: April 30, 2025 12:10 PM to 12:40 PM
A special Gallery Talk with Kitsa Oteo at the BYU Museum of Art as part of the Women’s Conference celebration! This enriching event is free and open to all, no conference registration needed. - Crossing the Divide
Date and Time: Until 2029
100 works from the BYU MOA's permanent collection featuring a variety of artistic voices, landscapes, and mediums. This exhibit invites visitors to delve into the complexity of American culture through art.
Family Days (FHE)
Fun-filled events designed for families, featuring interactive art activities, scavenger hunts, and storytelling sessions to spark creativity in young minds.
- Chinese New Year FHE
- FHE Tour
Date and Time: Every Monday, 7:15 PM - 7:45 PM
Enjoy a special Family Home Evening tour or explore the museum, designed to engage families in art and creativity.
Cultural Nights
Evenings dedicated to celebrating art and culture from around the globe, often accompanied by music, performances, and food.
- Music at the MOA: Canticum Lucis
Date and Time: August 9, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Immerse yourself in the ethereal sounds of Canticum Lucis as they perform music inspired by themes of flight and ascension.
Got more than 10 people in your group? You can ask for guided or self-guided visits. It’s a great chance to learn more about the art with a knowledgeable guide.
Check the BYU Museum of Art website for more info or group reservations.
