The Moab Arts Center has hosted the traveling Smithsonian exhibition "Voices & Votes: Democracy in America," a program exploring the history and ongoing evolution of the American democratic experiment through a series of community workshops and interactive exhibits.
Smithsonian Exhibition Details
The exhibition, which runs from June 8 through August 7, 2026, examines the action, reaction, vision, and revision required of democracy as Americans continue to question how to shape the country. Based on an exhibition by the National Museum of American History, the program is part of the Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and state humanities councils nationwide.
Community Art Workshops
The Moab Arts Center has organized several events to complement the traveling exhibit, including a series of workshops intended to provide a platform for community expression. For example, a workshop titled "A Platform for Your Voice" was held on May 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. In collaboration with KikiBouba Press, participants aged 18 and older used traditional printmaking methods to create postcards and protest signs. These creations were intended for display in a companion exhibit titled "Community Voices."
Public Speaking and Advocacy
Civic engagement was further encouraged through specialized training and storytelling events. A workshop led by Celia Alario and the Moab Sun News focused on public speaking and advocacy skills, aimed at helping residents feel more confident when communicating thoughts during council meetings, letters to the editor, or in front of crowds. This session was held in person at the Grand County Public Library on June 6 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Storytelling and Personal Narratives
The program also featured a "Story Slam" titled "Your Voice, Your Vote," which took place on June 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Moab Arts Center Stage Room. Held in partnership with Storied Self Moab and the Grand County Public Library, the event invited participants to share personal true stories regarding times they spoke up or took a stand on matters of importance. Participants in the slam are required to tell a 5-8 minute story without the use of notes or props.
Community Engagement Events
Other community-focused activities included a series of movie screenings and seasonal celebrations. Free movie screenings at the center included "Hamilton" on June 19 and "National Treasure" on July 17, with popcorn provided for attendees. Additionally, the center planned activities for Pioneer Day in partnership with the Moab Museum's Ice Cream Social, as well as Arts & Ag Markets and the Grand County Fair, where residents could share experiences through poems, crafts, and games.
Exhibition Support and Tours
The exhibition is supported by Utah Humanities and has been made possible in Moab through the Museum on Main Street initiative. This collaboration is supported by the United States Congress. Visitors to the exhibit can engage with docent-guided tours led by guides trained by the Utah Museum of Fine Arts staff, or participate in audience-guided lectures, such as one conducted by Katherine Kitterman.
Visitor Information
The Moab Arts Center, located at 111 E 100 N, maintains specific hours for the exhibition: Monday through Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The center also provides opportunities for community members to volunteer or request private tours of the exhibition.
