Exhibit brings Sistine Chapel art to Salt Lake City

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition brings reproductions of Michelangelo’s frescoes to Salt Lake City. (SEE Attractions and Bridgeman Images)

Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes

SALT LAKE CITY — For Utahns who dream of seeing the Sistine Chapel artwork up close but haven’t yet been able to travel the nearly 6,000 miles to get there, a new exhibit brings reproductions of Michelangelo’s frescoes to Salt Lake City.

“It is a much different experience than if you go to the Sistine Chapel (it’s 65 feet in the air), and here you can see the art up close and in-person,” said Marcia Vojtech, who works at the touring exhibition.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition opened Friday at the Gateway, displaying 34 of the artist’s most famous scenes from the chapel ceiling, including “The Creation of Adam,” “The Fall of Man and Expulsion from Paradise,” “Delphic Sybil” and ” The Last Judgment.”

Although fine art reproductions, traditionally, are hand-painted replicas, this exhibit instead reproduced the paintings with a special printing technique using licensed, high-definition photos. Exhibit producers say the reproductions convey “the look and feel of the original paintings” and show “every detail, every brushstroke and every color” of the frescoes.

Producers say it’s the first time the artwork has been reproduced in this manner, and the pieces are nearly the size of the originals.

Those who visit the exhibit can view signs explaining each piece, and audio guides are also available to rent.

“We are delighted to bring this must-see interactive art exhibit to the Gateway,” said Jacklyn Briggs, spokeswoman for Vestar, which owns the Gateway. “This exhibit will be a perfect addition to our vibrant arts district we’ve created and provide a unique opportunity for visitors of all ages to engage and interact with beautiful art while visiting our space.”

The exhibit gives attendees more time to take in the views compared to visiting the Sistine Chapel, according to exhibit producers. Tours take between 60 and 90 minutes.

Attendees can also take photos and “selfies” at the exhibit — something that isn’t allowed at the Sistine Chapel, as flash photography could damage the original artwork.

“This exhibition is like a sanctuary, you’re transported into a completely different world,” Martin Biallas, CEO of Los Angeles-based SEE Global Entertainment, said in a news release. “When I visited the Sistine Chapel in Rome, there were long lines and we were rushed through. This exhibit in Salt Lake City allows everyone an opportunity to see the amazing art at their pace and up-close, at an affordable price, and enjoy an inspiring and unforgettable experience.”

“We have had sold-out openings in San Diego, Cleveland, Dayton, Philadelphia, Washington DC and Dallas in recent months and it is our privilege to bring one of Rome’s most iconic artworks to Salt Lake City,” he said.

Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition is located at the Gateway, 16 N. Rio Grande, on the lower north side of the center directory, beneath Flanker Kitchen and Sporting Club. The exhibit runs in Salt Lake City through June 19.

Tickets are $23 for adults and $14 for children, with discounts available for seniors, students, military members and their families. Tickets can be purchased at chapelsistine.com/exhibits/salt-lake-city/.

×

Photos

A lifelong Utahn, Ashley Imlay covers state politics and breaking news for KSL.com.

More stories you may be interested in

Comments are closed.