Alternative Venues | Visual Arts

At The Front, Art and Climbing Build Community

A climber on an indoor rock wall, reaching for handholds with colorful climbing grips, with a desert-themed painting visible in the background.

The Front, at 1470 S. 400 West, has installed work by local artists to enhance the experience for its members.

Social pundits have lately lamented the loss of “third places,” spaces other than work and home where people can connect and experience a sense of community. Think churches, pubs and community centers. For Utahns, those spaces might be outdoors, at the ski lifts or along the trails. But they may also be at the increasing number of indoor spaces devoted to Utah’s active lifestyle. Many of these are incorporating local art into their vision of spaces where active Utahns can also meet and build a sense of community.

For those who love climbing and art, The Front offers a fusion of physical activity and creative expression. The Front’s two Salt Lake City locations (there is a third location in Ogden) have become community hubs for art enthusiasts as well as climbers. The Front’s art initiatives center on two key goals: supporting local artists and acquiring permanent art. At the 1470 S. 400 West location, the art on display is part of a permanent collection. This enormous building provides climbers and visitors the opportunity to experience works by local artist as part of their everyday routine.

The 4140 S. Main location, however, takes a more dynamic approach with two dedicated arts programs. The Rotating Art Program is a relatively new initiative that invites artists to submit their work for a chance to be featured. Submissions are reviewed by a committee, with selected finalists awarded $1,000 each. The committee selecting work comprises Andrew Rice, a printmaker and Weber State University professor; Rachel Becker, a glass artist and member of the Millcreek Arts Council; architect Hannah Vaughan; artist and exhibition designer Taylor Wright; and artist, teacher, and public radio host Jorge Rodriguez. The current theme is “Joy,” and the artwork, which rotates monthly, is available for purchase. Notably, The Front does not take a commission on sold pieces, ensuring artists receive the full value of their work.

A gallery space featuring large wall-mounted paintings on the left and a rock climbing wall on the right, brightly lit by natural and artificial lighting.

Art by Trevor Dahl will be on view at 4140 S. Main through March.

A series of colorful floral prints in wooden frames hanging on a white wall, showcasing botanical designs in vibrant hues of orange, blue, green, and purple.

Works by Molly Powers are part of the Rotating Art Program at the 4140 S. Main location.

Wall-mounted oval paintings featuring abstract landscapes and colorful designs, displayed in a row in an art gallery. Each piece includes a small descriptive label.

Works by Olivia Johnson at the 4140 S. Main location.

The Front’s Gallery Night series, a monthly event where the public is invited to view and celebrate local art. On January 17, from 6 to 8 pm, the upcoming Gallery Night will feature the work of artist Molly Powers. The Front is a a membership organization but admission to these events is free. February 21’s Gallery Night will showcase Christian Wamsley’s work, with submissions for March’s event due by the end of February.

Beyond its current programs, The Front plans to further integrate art into its spaces. Art Programs Manager Cat Velasquez, who is also a potter, will soon offer pottery classes once the necessary facilities are ready. This initiative promises to add a hands-on, creative dimension to the gym’s rich artistic offerings.

Portrait of a smiling individual standing near a large wooden sculpture in a gallery space, wearing glasses and casual clothing. Artwork is displayed in the background on a white wall.

Cat Velasquez, a graduate of Louisiana State University (BFA), moved west because of her love the outdoors.

Gallery Night at The Front, The Front, Millcreek, Jan. 17, 6-8 pm.

All images by Steve Coray.

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