Roots of Knowledge

About

Utah Valley University (UVU) has witnessed substantial growth since its modest start 75 years ago. What began as a vocational school during World War II is today the largest university in the state. To coincide with its 75th anniversary in November 2016, UVU unveiled an ambitious public art project of extraordinary proportions: Roots of Knowledge.

The bold and large-scale permanent installation taps the ancient storytelling art form of stained glass, while uniquely adapting it for a modern, secular setting. Exploring the evolution of knowledge through this historic medium has provided UVU a palette to create both a singular artistic landmark and powerfully embody the university’s unique commitment to engaged learning. Roots of Knowledge anchors an undulating wall of windows in UVU’s Ira A. and Mary Lou Fulton Library’s Bingham Gallery, comprising 80 individual panes totaling 10 feet in height and 200 feet in length.

A fusion of art, education, and public space, Roots of Knowledge starts with the dawn of humanity and ends with the present day. The series of stained glass windows chronicles the human quest for intellectual advancement and progress. The panes are vibrantly colored glass paintings and interpretations of world history, including major inventions such as the Mayan Calendar and the printing press; important figures such as Joan of Arc and the Kangxi Emperor; major world events, such as Scotland’s Declaration of Arbroath and the American Civil Rights Movement; and thousands of other historical figures, tools, and events. Altogether, Roots of Knowledge incorporates thousands of pieces of glass, as well as actual rock, fossils, coins, meteorite, petrified wood, and coral.

Conceived by Utah artist Tom Holdman and former Utah Valley University President Matthew Holland, Roots of Knowledge combines the work, guidance, and study of 40+ professional artists, 26 UVU scholars and hundreds of UVU students. Roots of Knowledge was unveiled as a permanent installation in the Fulton Library – the heart of the campus – on Nov. 18, 2016. The project was made possible through a public private initiative led by UVU and Holdman Studios with funding from a generous donor community. The west-facing window wall is lit by natural light, and the gallery has become a space for ongoing university events and thought leadership, where the arts and education can flourish.

Price

Free

Address

800 W University Pkwy
Orem, UT 84058

Contact Information

https://www.uvu.edu/rootsofknowledge/visit/
1.801.863.8840
rootsofknowledge@uvu.edu