Update: The event has been postponed until the Fall. Stay tuned for new dates.

From nearby Southern Utah University comes James Aton, who will spend an evening with us discussing his latest book The Art and Life of Jimmie Jones. Jimmie and his artwork were admired and beloved universally, but especially by all who live, as Jimmie did, within the shadows of Zion’s towers. James will sign copies of his book, which is sure to be a treasure. Also on this night James has arranged for the display of several of Jimmie’s paintings held by private collectors. You can view many of Jimmie’s works at the Braithwaite Gallery at Southern Utah University, but this night is the only night you will be able to see these privately held pieces.

James Aton has produced two films, Voices of Desolation Canyon (with Jennifer Little), and Jimmie Jones: Red Rock Painter (with Jon M. Smith). In 2013, he published his first book on Jimmie, Jim Jones, the San Blas Years.

Originally from Kentucky, James has been a professor of English at Southern Utah University since 1980, where he found a home in Color Country and where Western issues and ideas have been his major focus. James’ articles on environmental history have appeared in the Utah Historical Quarterly, Western American Literature, South Dakota Review, and Southwest Art. He has published books and articles on subjects that run from John Wesley Powell to the environmental history of the San Juan River. Inevitably, he returns to Jimmie Jones and his life amid paint, canvas, and the sublime landscapes of the American Southwest. Be there for an exploration of that life.

This event has received funding from the Utah Humanities Council. The Utah Humanities Council promotes history and heritage, literature and literacy, and public discussion of issues important to our communities. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this website or the lectures do not necessarily represent those of the Utah Humanities Council or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

This project is supported by Utah Arts and Museums, with funding from the State of Utah and the National Endowment for the Arts .

Thank you to the Town of Springdale and the Canyon Community Center for supporting this event

Support for this event provided by The National Endowment for the Arts - Art Works