Our inaugural Plaza +ART: An Evening of Art will feature artists Ben Hammond and Justin Wheatley (read their bios below). You can hear from them firsthand about their love of art, learn about the city's Plaza +ART program and mingle with local artists and community members.

It's all happening at the Mid-Valley Performing Arts Center from 7 to 8 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

Please email jandrus@taylorsville.gov if you plan to attend so we may gauge how many may be coming.

Justin Wheatley was born and raised in Clinton, Utah. He holds a bachelor's of Fine Arts degree from Utah State University, with an emphasis in drawing and painting, and a master's of Arts from National University, with a specialization in National Board Leadership. His work is influenced by his love for nature and architecture. Wheatley is represented by galleries across the west and has work in the collections of the Springville Museum of Art, Brigham Young University, Marriott International, Royal Caribbean, Salt Lake County, the University of Utah, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and Utah Arts and Museums.

Ben Hammond was raised in the rural town of Pingree, Idaho, where his love for art was nurtured from the time he was a small boy. He studied art at Ricks College, graduating with a degree in illustration. Hammond’s sculptures have been included in many juried shows throughout the country, and he has been the recipient of numerous awards.

"Some of my deepest feelings have a hard time being articulated through words, so I create art," he says. "I hope that the viewer can sense what is most important to me when they see my work. Each piece is deeply personal, yet hopefully speaks with a universal language. I try to create images that are beautiful, uplifting and relatable."