Conserving Minerva Teichert Art
This video shows some of the efforts and the significance of preserving the art of Minerva Teichert, a renowned Latter-day Saint artist. Minerva Teichert was known for her remarkable paintings, often inspired by religious and historical themes. To safeguard and maintain her valuable artwork, dedicated conservation efforts have been undertaken by institutions and art enthusiasts alike.
With Teichert’s artistic contributions deeply rooted in the history and culture of her community, preserving Minerva Teichert art goes beyond mere aesthetics. Her paintings serve as a window into the past, depicting scenes from the Bible, the Book of Mormon, pioneer life, and the American West. As a result, conserving her works is crucial for preserving the historical and cultural heritage they represent.
Conservation efforts encompass a range of activities, including restoration, protection from environmental factors, and responsible exhibition practices. Specialized experts and institutions work tirelessly to ensure that the colors, textures, and integrity of her paintings are carefully preserved for future generations to appreciate.
The significance of conserving Minerva Teichert's art extends beyond the art world. It also holds great importance for the Latter-day Saints community, as her artwork has become intertwined with their religious and cultural identity. By safeguarding her art, they preserve a vital part of their artistic and spiritual legacy.
In conclusion, conserving Minerva Teichert's art is a labor of love and dedication to preserving the history, culture, and artistic brilliance of an exceptional painter. When we safeguarding Teichert’s art, we honor her artistic legacy and ensure that future generations can continue to marvel at the profound stories her paintings still tell.
Minerva Teichert paintings are being conserved all over the west. Special thank you to: www.fineartconservationlab.com
Queen Esther Speaks - The art of Minerva Teichert
At the impressive age of 92, Betty Curtis Stokes emanates an air of elegance and dignity, as she gazes at a grand Minerva Teichert painting of Queen Esther adorning her dining room wall. The resemblance between Betty and the biblical heroine depicted in the painting is striking, and there's a reason behind it. In her early years, Betty Curtis lived in Cokeville, Wyo., just a few doors away from Minerva Teichert, a renowned artist and member of the Latter-day Saint community. Minerva frequently used people from her own neighborhood as models for her magnificent paintings.
In 1939, when Betty Curtis was a young and vibrant 19-year-old, she had the honor of being chosen as the model for Minerva Teichert's celebrated masterpiece, "Queen Esther." The painting captures the essence of the biblical character, and Betty's captivating presence undoubtedly infused the artwork with an extra layer of authenticity and allure.
Photographs of Minerva Teichert, courteously provided by the LDS Church History Library, offer glimpses into the life and artistry of the talented painter. Additionally, images of Cokeville, Wyoming, generously made available by wyomingtalesandtrails.com, give us a sense of the charming and picturesque town that once played host to Betty Curtis and Minerva Teichert. To this day, Betty's connection with Queen Esther endures, as photographs of Minerva Teichert's extraordinary paintings are showcased at the BYU Museum of Art, preserving the legacy of both the artist and her exceptional muse.
Video Tour: Minerva Teichert at the BYU Museum of Art
Take a video tour of the the Brigham Young University (BYU) Museum of Art. The BYU MOA is an impressive art museum located on the campus of Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. It is one of the largest and most prominent art museums in the region and is well-regarded for its diverse and extensive collection of art, especially Minerva Teichert. The museum houses the largest collection of Minerva Teichert paintings. Although the BYU MOA offers art from various periods and cultures This video tour is focused on Minerva Teichert.
A video tour of the Minerva Teichert art found at the BYU Museum of At in Provo, Utah
MINERVA TEICHERT: RUG MERCHANTS, 1935, OIL ON CANVAS
Minerva Teichert painting titled: Rug Merchants
Growing up in Idaho, near the Shoshone-Bannock Reservation, Minerva Teichert's fascination with Indigenous peoples developed into a lifelong passion. Her artworks portrayed Native American life through a lens of deep respect and idealization, capturing a nostalgic essence of their historical past. In one of her paintings, we see Indigenous weavers showcasing their exquisite textiles while a trapper, reminiscent of characters from the early nineteenth-century fur trade, examines the rugs and baskets on sale.
Minerva drew inspiration for this particular piece from historic Native American rugs, which she had the opportunity to observe in a friend's collection. She noted, "This friend knows the West very well and acquired these rugs or blankets long ago when there were many excellent things to choose from. I have witnessed scenes like this before the exploitation of the Navajos had reached such a level. It is like a vibrant bazaar in the desert." The adjacent rug displayed alongside the painting exemplifies the impeccable craftsmanship of the Navajo people, showcasing the role of both commerce and tourism in popularizing these exquisite rugs.
Books About Minerva Teichert
Minerva Teichert was a renowned American artist from the 20th century, best known for her depictions of Latter-day Saint history and culture. She has many paintings depicting scenes from the Book of Mormon in addition to western art. Over the years, numerous books have been written about her life and work, offering a wealth of information for art enthusiasts, historians, and individuals interested in both her life and faith. This article will explore some of the books available on Minerva Teichert, providing an overview of their content and significance.
Minerva Teichert: Pageants in Paint by Mary Teichert Pond
Perhaps the most comprehensive book written about Minerva Teichert is titled Minerva Teichert: Pageants in Paint, authored by Mary Teichert Pond, Minerva's granddaughter. The book includes an in-depth biography of Teichert, tracing her early life, education, and artistic journey, as well as exploring the religious and cultural context in which her paintings were created. The book is heavily illustrated with color reproductions of Teichert's paintings, and includes a detailed analysis of her style, techniques, and motifs.
2. The Master's Touch: Art and Faith in the Life of Minerva Teichert by Richard G. Oman
The Master's Touch: Art and Faith in the Life of Minerva Teichert, written by Richard G. Oman, is another book that delves into the religious and spiritual aspects of Teichert's paintings. Oman draws upon his expertise as a curator of art at the LDS Church History Museum, as well as his own personal relationship with Teichert, to provide insights into her artistic vision and the role of her faith in shaping her art. The book also includes a number of black-and-white photographs of Teichert paintings.
3. Minerva Teichert: An American Artist by Brigham D. Madsen
Minerva Teichert: An American Artist is a biographical study of Teichert's life and work by Brigham D. Madsen, a historian and professor at Brigham Young University. The book offers a detailed account of Teichert's early years in Wyoming, her artistic training in New York City, and her eventual move to Utah, where she gained recognition for her depictions of pioneer life and LDS history. Madsen also provides a critical analysis of Teichert's paintings, highlighting their formal and thematic qualities.
4. Minerva Teichert: A Book of Days by Marion D. Hanks
Minerva Teichert: A Book of Days is a unique publication that presents a selection of Teichert's works alongside inspirational texts and quotes from religious figures and literary sources. Edited by Marion D. Hanks, a prominent leader within the LDS Church, the book is designed as a daily devotional guide, offering readers an opportunity to contemplate Teichert's art in a meditative context. The book includes both black-and-white and color reproductions of Teichert's paintings, as well as insights from Hanks on the spiritual themes and messages conveyed by her work.
5. Minerva! The Story of an Artist with a Mission
"Minerva! The Story of an Artist with a Mission," author Elaine Cannon gives readers a rare glimpse of the real Minerva Teichert. Written in first person, as if Minerva were telling the story herself, this book takes a journey through the mind of a vivacious artist, a woman who said the Spirit impelled her to paint. By using Minerva's own words, phrases, and expressions throughout the book, the author brings to life Minerva's desires, heartaches, adventures, and thoughts.
The books on Minerva Teichert provide a rich tapestry of information on her life, faith, and artistry. From detailed biographies and critical analyses to inspirational and meditative texts, these publications offer something for everyone interested in exploring the legacy of this remarkable American artist. Whether you are a scholar, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates art and spiritual expression, the books on Minerva Teichert are sure to educate and inspire.
Minerva Teichert
Minerva Teichert is widely regarded as one of the most talented American artists of the 20th century. Her colorful and imaginative artwork has been the subject of countless exhibitions and publications over the years, and her influence on the artistic world continues to this day. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of Minerva Teichert's art and explore some of her personal photos.
Teichert was born in North Ogden, Utah in 1888, and grew up with a deep appreciation for art. She attended classes at the LDS College in Salt Lake City, and later the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied with some of the most famous artists of the time. However, it was her return to Utah that truly set the stage for her career as an artist. She married her husband Herman Teichert in 1918, and together they raised five children while she worked tirelessly to hone her craft.
One of Teichert's most famous works is her depiction of the Book of Mormon, which is a series of 44 large-scale paintings that illustrate the story of the Book of Mormon from beginning to end. Each painting captures a specific moment in the story - from the arrival of Nephi and his family in the promised land, to the climactic battle between the Nephites and Lamanites. The paintings are now housed in the BYU Museum of Art, where visitors can see them in person and appreciate the time and effort that went into their creation.
Teichert's art is known for its bold and vibrant colors, which she often used to bring her subjects to life. Her paintings are also marked by their strong sense of narrative, as each one tells a story or captures a moment in time. Whether she was painting scenes from the Old Testament or depicting the wild west, Teichert always sought to capture the essence of her subjects and bring them to life in her artwork.
Despite the challenges she faced as a woman in the male-dominated world of art, Teichert rose to fame and established herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her legacy lives on through her art, which continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
In conclusion, Minerva Teichert was a truly remarkable artist whose work has had a lasting impact on the world of art. From her colorful and imaginative paintings to her depiction of the Book of Mormon, Teichert's art is a testament to her talent and creativity. We hope that this brief overview has given you a sense of the incredible achievement of Minerva Teichert, and that you will take the time to explore some of her artwork for yourself. We have found what we believe are all the publicly available photos of Minerva Teichert. They are reflective of her entire life.
More Details from the Life of Minerva Teichert
If you were a resident of Cokeville, Wyoming, during the mid-20th century and needed to purchase a pint of cream, you likely strolled down Main Street until you reached the end. There, you would find the Teichert residence, serving as both a bustling ranch house and the boundary between town and the open fields and western hills beyond. Your knock on the door would summon Minerva Teichert, a white-haired woman with her signature headband, who would warmly greet you and appreciate the diversion from her daily chores.
The nature of the chores she mentioned would depend on the time of day you visited. In the morning, she might be attending to the dishes after preparing breakfast at 6 a.m. for her large family and ranch workers. Around midday, she might be occupied with tasks such as cleaning milk bottles, churning butter, or forming soap bars. In the afternoon, you might encounter her in an apron, with pockets filled with seeds for her flock of 75 chickens.
Upon entering her high-ceilinged front room, you'd immediately notice the scent of linseed oil in the air. Your gaze would be drawn to the painted canvases, each in various stages of completion, adorning the room's largest available wall. Nearby, you'd spot paintbrushes and a palette, evidence of her ongoing artistic endeavors. Curiosity would lead you to inquire about the paintings, and in return, you'd depart the Teichert home not only with your pint of cream but also with a captivating story. These stories could range from tales of pioneer courage to ancient Indian rituals or perhaps the desert journey of Lehi.
Minerva Teichert was more than just a rancher's wife and a homemaker. She was a storyteller at heart, a teacher whose most eloquent form of expression lay in the bold brushstrokes adorning the walls of her entry room. Today, while Minerva Teichert may no longer be selling cream at the end of Main Street in Cokeville, her stories of the American West and her faith continue to thrive. You can now discover her stories in galleries and art exhibitions, such as the one at BYU's Museum of Art titled "Pageants in Paint," which explores how Teichert incorporated storytelling techniques from pageants into her murals. Altogether, her paintings not only recount the stories she depicted but also her own remarkable journey.
Minerva Teichert's life was lived at the intersection of rustic and refined, bridging the gap between the frontier and cultured society. Born in 1888, she spent her formative years on a remote homestead near American Falls, Idaho. From a young age, she explored the countryside on horseback, sketching her observations of Native Americans, wildlife, and landscapes in charcoal and pencil. Her parents supplemented her sporadic formal education by reading literature, history, and even the complete works of William Shakespeare aloud to her. She considered her time on the Idaho homestead as the most critical part of her artistic training.
Minerva's artistic ambitions took flight when, at the age of 14, she spent a summer in San Francisco working as a nursemaid. There, at the Mark Hopkins Institute of Art, she witnessed the creation of great art for the first time. After graduating from high school, she supported her father's mission to Europe and later her own art studies at the Art Institute of Chicago by teaching and doing manual labor. In Chicago, she earned the nickname "Miss Idaho" and studied under accomplished draftsman John Vanderpoel, who taught her the intricacies of the human body's anatomy.
The influence of renowned portraitist Robert Henri played a significant role in shaping Minerva's art. Henri encouraged his students to love reality and shun photographic representation, emphasizing the use of large brushes, loose strokes, and the avoidance of overworking compositions. Minerva combined Henri's teachings with her training in figure drawing and mural techniques, infusing her work with her unique Western sensibilities and a style that remains instantly recognizable.
Her path to becoming a renowned artist was not without challenges. In a pivotal moment, Henri asked her if anyone had ever told the great Mormon story through her art. When she replied in the negative, Henri proclaimed that it was her duty to do so, effectively commissioning her to tell the story through her paintings.
Despite the allure of a successful career in the art world, Minerva Teichert chose love and family over art. She married Herman Teichert, a cowboy, and opted for a life that balanced her roles as a wife, mother, and artist. Her love for her family and her art was unwavering, and she often stated, "I must paint," seeing her artistic drive as an insatiable compulsion. This drive persisted even when confronted with obstacles such as her ranching duties, lead poisoning from her paints, and declining eyesight in later years.
In 1927, the Teichert family left their log cabin in Idaho, which was destined to be submerged by a reservoir, and settled on a ranch in Cokeville, Wyoming. There, Minerva finally had the large wall space she had always dreamed of, which would serve as the canvas for her ongoing murals. These murals became a defining feature of her artistic expression, and she created them in her signature multitasking style, often adding brushstrokes between her chores or even adjusting clocks to manage her time effectively.
The 1930s marked a turning point in her career when her art began to bring financial relief to her struggling family during the Great Depression. She ventured to Salt Lake City and found an agent in Alice Merrill Horne, a prominent art dealer in Utah. This partnership led to significant recognition and exhibitions of her work, effectively saving the Teichert ranch from economic turmoil.
Despite facing financial hardships, Minerva's unwavering commitment to her family remained evident. She turned down opportunities for further education and international study trips to prioritize her role as a mother and wife. Her dedication to her family was matched only by her dedication to her art.
In 1947, Minerva Teichert received a remarkable commission to paint the Manti Utah Temple's world room mural. This mural deviated from the usual portrayal of a barren desert wasteland and depicted a grand procession of people from diverse cultures, emphasizing the theme of man's inhumanity to man. She completed this massive mural in just 23 days, impressing both temple authorities and observers with her talent and dedication.
By 1952, Minerva had painted 42 large works illustrating stories from the Book of Mormon. She had grand hopes for these paintings to accompany the Book of Mormon text, be used by missionaries worldwide, or even be published as a book of paintings. However, these dreams went unfulfilled as she struggled to find buyers for her Book of Mormon paintings, despite their widespread praise.
Several factors contributed to the decline of Minerva Teichert's influence in Mormon art during the late 1940s and 1950s. The passing of her dear friend and mentor, Alice Merrill Horne, in 1948 left her without her most trusted critic and art agent. Additionally, changing artistic tastes saw a decline in the popularity of murals, and other artists like Arnold Friberg were commissioned by the Church to paint the Book of Mormon.
However, even as her influence waned, Minerva Teichert continued to paint. Her works, especially those with Western themes, found appreciation outside of Utah. She remained dedicated to her calling as an artist and teacher, imparting her knowledge and passion for art and scripture to her family and anyone
who visited her.
In 1970, an accident left her unable to paint, and she passed away in 1976 in a nursing home in Provo, Utah. In the months following her death, a renewed interest in her art emerged within the Mormon community. Her Book of Mormon paintings were rediscovered and showcased, murals were restored and displayed, and her artistic legacy was celebrated through exhibitions and retrospectives.
Today, Minerva Teichert's art continues to captivate audiences, and her legacy is cherished, particularly in her hometown of Cokeville. Her unique ability to tell stories through art and her unwavering commitment to family and faith make her a beloved figure in the world of American art and Mormon history.
Minerva Teichert Paintings
Minerva Teichert paintings have become an incredible display of an artists life. Minerva has art all over the western states. Here is a small glimpse of the magnificent collection of Minerva Teichert paintings and art. Many of these works of art are on exhibit in Salt Lake City at the Church History Museum and at the BYU Museum of Art.
Lost Art of the Provo Tabernacle Fire
Minerva Teichert’s original oil painting “Restoration of the Priesthood” was destroyed in the Provo Tabernacle fire. The remnants of this work of art is now on display as part of the large Minerva Teichert exhibit at the Church History Museum in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Of the several works of art that were consumed in the Tabernacle fire in Provo, Utah only one was an original oil painting, the rest were printed copies. Titled “Restoration of the Priesthood” the original Teichert painting hung in the Tabernacle for many years. A small portion of the painting was salvaged from the debris and is on display at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Church History Museum in Salt, Lake City, Utah.
The only surviving portion of the Minerva Teichert painting that was destroyed in the Provo Tabernacle fire of 2010.
BYU Museum of Art loans 15 pieces of Minerva Teichert art to new Church exhibition
(Salt Lake City) The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Church History Museum is featuring a new Minerva Teichert art exhibition in Salt Lake City. The title of the art exhibition is: “With This Covenant in My Heart: The Art and Faith of Minerva Teichert.” The BYU museum of Art is one of the largest holders of Minerva Teichert paintings and loaned 15 of her paintings to the Church History Museum for display. The exhibition was collaboration between Church owned museums like BYU MOA and Minerva Teichert paintings held in private hands.
“We don’t always get the opportunity to see so many Minerva Teichert paintings all up together. So I think it’s an opportunity that everyone should take the time to see,” said Dr. Janalee Emmer, director of the BYU Museum of Art. The MOA lent 15 various subjects of Teichert’s paintings to the Salt Lake exhibition. The Minerva Teichert art Exhibit will remain on display in SLC from July 6, 2023 to Aug. 3, 2024.
BYU Museum of Art Receives Minerva Teichert Art Donation
(Provo, UT) Brigham Young University Museum of Art has long housed many of Minerva Teichert’s paintings. The museum has been the recipient of gifts including a collection of 11 Minerva Teichert paintings from the The Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation of Orange, Texas.
This Stark Foundation gift is the third largest gift of art ever donated to the MOA. The donated Minerva Teichert works include subjects of Teichert’s Native American works, western theme with early pioneers, all of which will become part the MOA’s Southwest art collection. BYU has been collecting Teichert works since the 1930s, which has grown to include 92 paintings and 67 sketches and drawings.
BYU Museum Art has become a serious contender for one of the best museums of the western United States. Located in Provo, Utah on the campus of Brigham Young University it offers a large collection of its own art, in addition to securing exhibits that are seen in national galleries. BYU shares its Minerva Teichert collection with other museums around the west and midwest.
The BYU Museum of Art is a well-known institution located on the Brigham Young University campus in Provo, Utah. The museum's collections include more than 18,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. This museum is free to the public and features exhibits throughout the year, including works from notable artists such as MinervaTeichert, Carl Bloch, Walter Rane, and Rembrandt. Along with its permanent collection, the BYU Museum of Art also hosts traveling exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
New Minerva Teichert Art
This rare find of a Minerva Teichert painting of western art is an example of the many pieces of art that are yet to be discovered. Minerva was known for doing commission paintings for people and even businesses. On very rare occasions Minerva Teichert paintings are discovered in a home or back office. This wonderful painting is one of those works of Minerva Teichert’s art.
Minerva Teichert painting recently discovered and is on display at Anthony’s antique store in Salt Lake City, Utah. Minerva Teichert Art Gallery
Video Tour of Minerva Teichert Art Exhibit
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has opened a beautiful art exhibit of the art of Minerva Teichert. This art is on display at the Church History Museum in Salt Lake City. It features some of Teicherts most beloved pieces of art as well as works that are rarely on display.
NEW Minerva Teichert Gallery Exhibit
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has opened the largest Minerva Teichert art exhibit ever assembled at the Church History Museum in Salt Lake City. Minerva’s art is beloved by millions and has become a special source of inspiration and delight to those who are familiar with her work.
Since the 1930s the Church has been major supporter and patron of the many works of art by Minerva Teichert. From canvas art to large murals - from small chapels to large temples, minerva’s passion and hard work is beautifully on display in many places around the western states. “Just assembling this amount of her work into one place, is almost a miracle.” says Silas Duncan, a descendant of Minerva Teichert.
The title of the exhibit is “With This Covenant in My Heart: The Art and Faith of Minerva Teichert” It comes from Teichert’s account of her battle with illness during the 1918 influenza pandemic. During her worst night she would later recall “I promised the Lord if I’d finished my work and he’d give me some more, I’d gladly do it,” she then said later. “With this covenant in my heart, I began to live.”
Christ in His Red Robe has been unseen for several years as it has been in conservation cleaning and restoration. Minerva Teichert painted this piece in 1945, during the hardest days of WWII
The Murals of Minerva Teichert
Many people think of Minerva Teichert art as framed wall art or canvas reproductions. In her early career as a Latter-day Saint artist Minerva Teichert painted many murals and some of those murals have been captures and reproduced on canvas. Here is a look at some of Minerva Teichert’s most beloved murals.
The Remarkable Life of Minerva Teichert
Painting by Minerva Teichert of American Indian women
The Painting of Queen Esther
collage Photo of artist Minerva Teichert as a young woman, a middle age woman and an old woman
The Great Pageant of the West
Inspired by a movie she saw in 1937 titled “Maytime” with Jeanette McDonald and Nelson Eddy, Minerva Teichert sat down to begin her own autobiography. Her opening sentence: “ Last night I saw ‘Maytime.’ It was very beautiful.”
When Minerva Teichert began writing, America was in the midst of the Great Depression; she was 49 years old. Teichert was at her most prolific years as an artist. She had already painted hundreds of paintings and had placed over sixty murals in buildings throughout Wyoming and Utah. She accomplished this staggering feat while mothering five children and co-running a full-working ranch with her husband. “The work was everywhere” she wrote in her journal “we only rested because we had to, but the work was never done.” While painting her art and murals she kept up with her farm duties as expected. She raised chickens, cultivated fruit trees and grew vegetables. She assisted in running the family dairy while daily preparing large hot meals for farm hands, visitors and her own family. During this time she wrote “I don’t care for bridge, afternoon teas, or clubs . . . unless I can paint a little each day on this great pageant of the west, I feel the day is lost.”
Teichert’s love and passion for the American West was the subject of her earliest painting attempts. In Mormon history she has certainly made her mark; paintings such as Rescue of the Lost Lamb and Christ in His Red Robe are hallmarks of her religious artwork. But the Rocky Mountain artist, as her friends in New York would call her, painted an entire catalog of work that captures the west in an unmatched unique way. Here are just some of her works of art from the American West:
Explore Minerva Teichert art & paintings of the American West