The Art Museum of Eastern Idaho in Idaho Falls is opening a new exhibition titled 'Sacred Spaces: Visions of the West from the Prosaic to the Sublime' on Friday, with a public preview on Thursday night. The show features six artists, including Bryan Mark Taylor, Allie Zeyer, and David Dibble, all of whom have ties to agriculture. The works depict farm life scenes such as barns, fields, animals, and tractors, with an audio tour offering artist commentary. The Museum of Idaho is also contributing historic farm photos to complement the exhibit.
The exhibition matters because it aims to bridge the gap between the local agricultural community and the art museum, making the institution feel more accessible and relevant to people who might otherwise feel excluded. Development Director Amy Thompson was inspired by a teenage girl who initially thought the museum 'wasn't for me' but later felt she belonged. By centering the show on farm life—a core aspect of regional identity—the museum fosters inclusion and strengthens its role as a community catalyst.