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The Central Utah Art Center is located in Ephraim, Utah and was created in 1991 when it moved into the newly renovated Ephraim Roller Mill. The mill had originally been built in 1876. When it was built it was in part of Fort Ephraim and surrounded by walls to protect the settlement. During its 130 year history the mill was initially run by the Relief Society of the local Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and then went through several commercial owners before it was vacant for several decades before its renovation. In the early days of the mill, the grain processed there was sent around the world for charity relief purposes—some was sent to China near the turn of last century and a large amount was sent to San Francisco after the earthquake there in 1906.
Currently, the mill is used as a public art space. It has been beautifully renovated, leaving the oolite limestone bricks (typical of early architecture of the valley) exposed on both the exterior and on the inside walls of the upper level. All of the rafters and old floor joists have been left exposed.
The CUAC boasts 1700 square feet of exhibition space divided into two galleries. The larger, main gallery hosts 10 shows each year including, one-person exhibitions and a few juried, group shows. In the upstairs gallery, the CUAC sponsors roughly 6 shows annually focusing mainly on small three-dimensional work. Many of the shows are juried and curated group shows, however the CUAC occasionally invites individuals to have one-person exhibitions there.
Directly behind the CUAC is the old residence and studio of C C A Christensen (1831-1912), a pioneer artist from Norway who settled with his family in Ephraim about the time the mill was constructed. He lived in Ephraim for 30 years except for several church missions to Denmark and Norway and for art studies in Denmark. Christensen was known for documenting the lifestyle, struggles, and religious events of the young Mormon culture. His art was featured on the cover of Art in America in 1970.
The CUAC is currently seeking artists and proposals to show. If interested, please submit images of the work, an artist statement, a resume, and a brief proposal. Proposals may be submitted in person, by mail, or electronically.