Mary Elizabeth Dee Shaw Gallery Brings the Unexpected to Northern Utahns

The Weber State University Mary Elizabeth Dee Shaw Gallery has undergone a complete transformation during the past five years under the leadership of Lydia Gravis, the gallery’s current director. 

Gravis has two main areas of responsibility: planning and executing five exhibitions a year and coordinating the visiting artist program. Gravis also engages with the Ogden community via educational outreach and workshops that are connected to exhibitions and artist residencies. 

In the past five years, the gallery has welcomed nearly 50,000 visitors through its doors and has conducted 20 public lectures with some of the world’s leading artists. 

“The job of a gallery director is not only that of research, selection and implementation in terms of exhibition programming and management, but also to act as a bridge between gallery visitors and exhibitions,” Gravis said. “My primary aim is to introduce impactful and engaging exhibitions that have both initial wonder, and lasting resonance with visitors of all ages. Wonder can be achieved through the sensory experience of the artwork and the design of the exhibition within a gallery space. Resonance emerges from exhibition content, historical context and supporting programs. Both elements should work in unison to intrigue visitors and leave a lasting impression.”

Spring 2020 Shaw Gallery Events

2020 Weber State Biennial Student Art & Design Exhibition
Now–April 3

The Weber State Biennial Student Art & Design Exhibition is a juried exhibition that takes place every two years and is open to any current Weber State University students, regardless of major. Guest juror, Amy Jorgensen, selected a variety of works for display in the 2020 exhibition, which highlights the diverse creative endeavors of students.

Spring 2020 BFA Thesis Exhibition
April 17–May 1

Opening Reception: Friday, April 17, 7–9 p.m.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in the Weber State University Department of Visual Art & Design exhibit their capstone work in a group thesis exhibition prior to graduation. This exhibition provides a valuable opportunity for students to showcase their best art and design work.