Nestled in the heart of Utah, Carbon County is a hidden gem rich in history and culture. Known for its rugged landscapes and welcoming communities, the Carbon Corridor offers a unique blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. As winter blankets the region, there's no better time to explore the vibrant public art that graces this area. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or simply looking for a fresh experience, the Carbon Corridor promises to elevate your winter trip with its diverse and captivating public art.
Carbon County is composed of 10 distinct towns, each with its own draws like outdoor recreation or historic sites. In this blog, we’ll delve into Helper and Price, Utah— art hubs in Central Utah—and guide you on exploring the vibrant public art across these two charming towns.
Helper: A Thriving Arts Community
Helper, Utah has become a beacon for artists and art lovers alike. This small town of 2,100 people, with its rich mining history, has transformed into an arts hub that attracts creatives from all over. The annual Helper Arts Festival showcases the best of what this vibrant community has to offer. No matter the season, a visit to Helper is not complete without exploring its galleries and studios, where you can witness the artistic process firsthand and even purchase unique pieces.
Public art to check out:
- Big John Coal Miner Statue - Located on Helper Main Street
- Helper Art Tunnel
- The Helper Museum 3D Statue
Price: Outdoor Murals and Art Installations
While Helper is known for its strong art influence, Price boasts a variety of outdoor murals and art installations that bring the area to life. As you explore this charming town, you’ll discover older commercial murals like the Studebaker Mural on 100 North and the Miner’s Memorial at the Price Peace Gardens. Each hint at the town's storied past. Additionally, the numerous statues and physical art installations scattered throughout the town make for a delightful exploration. Don't miss Dan Naardi’s “Passage” on the USU Eastern campus, a striking piece that invites reflection.
Being home to the USU Eastern campus, Price’s public art pays tribute to the area’s rich history and culture. Outside the Prehistoric Museum, visitors are greeted by impressive dinosaur sculptures. On the northwest corner of the block, you'll find a full-bodied depiction of the flute-playing Kokopelli, crafted by Gary Prazen, a native of Carbon County. Inside the museum, a stunning 20-foot canvas titled "Holy Ghost" depicts a section of Barrier Canyon, now known as Horseshoe Canyon. This piece serves as a companion to the 60-foot mural at the Natural History Museum in Salt Lake City, which originally premiered at the Museum of Modern Art.
Plan Your Own Walking Tour
One of the best ways to experience public art in Carbon County is by planning a personalized walking tour. You can map out a tour yourself or download a tour of Price or Helper at Travelstorys.com. Start by visiting the town of Helper, known for its thriving arts community. Stroll through the streets to admire the murals and sculptures that adorn the town like the Bookcliff Mural and the 3D Tressel Bridge Mural, located at 72 S. Carbon Ave in Price. Helper’s Historic Main Street is also lined with a variety of local art galleries. Step in to view their rotating work and maybe even catch the artist at work. During your art tour, grab lunch at one of Helper’s restaurants. See our dining index for inspiration.
After exploring Helper, we recommend driving a few miles down the road to Price. Here, you can experience its outdoor gallery of murals and statues and make a stop at the Prehistoric Museum. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want a photo with Price’s 435-foot-long Bookcliff Mural by Kate Kilpatrick.
History & Culture: The Artful Past of Carbon County
Carbon County's history is deeply intertwined with its art. As you wander through the towns of Helper and Price, you’ll find murals and sculptures that celebrate the area’s heritage. In Price, Route 10 welcomes you with a large mural on a brick building. Historic commercial murals and statues, like Dan Naardi’s “Passage” on the campus of USU Eastern, offer glimpses into the county's past and its ongoing story.
Nine Mile Canyon: A Driving Tour
We can’t talk about public art without spotlighting the oldest artwork in Carbon County—and likely the state. Just 271 miles north of Wellington, UT, Nine Mile Canyon is home to some of the most significant Native American rock art in the region. As you drive into the canyon, you’ll notice markers for pullouts and points of interest. On the canyon walls, petroglyphs painted over a thousand years ago tell ancient stories of life at Utah’s core for the Ute and Fremont people.. Read our Guide to Nine Mile Canyon for more information.
Want a tour guide? Download our free audio tour and play it as you drive through 46 miles of Nine Mile Canyon. As you drive, the GPS-triggered tour will call out important rock art sites like the Big Buffalo site, so you don't miss a thing.
Community Involvement and Activities: Keeping the Arts Alive
The vibrant arts scene in Carbon County is sustained by active community involvement. The Helper Arts Festival is a prime example, bringing together artists, musicians, filmmakers, and visitors to celebrate creativity. This event not only showcases local talent but also fosters a sense of community and pride. Throughout the year, various art-related activities and workshops are held, offering opportunities for both residents and visitors to engage with the arts.
Planning Your Trip
Carbon County’s public art is a testament to the area’s rich history and vibrant culture. As you explore the murals, sculptures, and installations, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the community's creativity and resilience. This winter, let the art of the Carbon Corridor inspire your journey. Whether you're planning a walking tour or attending the Helper Arts Festival, there’s no better way to experience the magic of this unique region.
Pack your bags, bundle up, and prepare for a winter trip centered around the captivating public art of Carbon County, Utah. Your adventure awaits!
For more trip planning resources, check out the arts and culture section of our website and some key hubs to our area: