With so many interesting architectural attractions in store, a stroll through Ogden’s Trolley District will likely culminate with the eye-catching Victorian mansion that is the Eccles Art Gallery. While the area is rich with CHC-approved design (the Weber Country Library was featured as a Place of Worship), this particular home-turned-art hall might very well take the aesthetic cake.
This stately brick structure is clearly a lesson in intention and a labor of artistic love. The Eccles family held architecture in high regard, and this gorgeous, repurposed, sandstone mansion places that affinity on full display. From inside to out, the building boasts a design that is delightfully continuous, meaning every detail—from retaining walls to window casings—has been deftly intertwined. Assiduous care’s also been paid to the preservation of the spot, and as a result, all buildings on this particular plot—including garden and carriage home—have been beautifully protected.
Aesthetics aside, this Ogden staple is also an important anchor the the local art community. Namely, it’s an affordable space for locals artists—emerging and established, alike—to showcase their works. And in addition to hosting exhibits, the gallery also houses a permanent collection up stairs, as well as running a number of classes and outreach programs to promote Ogden’s budding art scene.
Following suit with the Eccles family legacy of championing the arts, the gallery is wholly invested in making its pieces and resources accessible to the community (the costs for the aforementioned classes have been made affordable, to ensure that creative expression and instruction are available to all). The gallery also frequently participates in local events intended to provide art to the public, such as Art in Bloom and Gallery Theatre Plays.
All in all, it seems the Eccles Art Gallery is one beautiful platform from which to promote the patronage of public arts. It’s a worthy cause with a dreamy home–one you’d be wise to see for yourself…
Eccles Community Art Center | 2580 Jefferson Ave, Ogden, UT 84401
