a celebration of sacred art
The Nativity Festival features works of art that reflect the beauty and reverence of the Christmas story. Each piece tells a part of the Savior’s birth through the eyes, hands, and hearts of its creator. From handcrafted nativity scenes to fine art and sculpture, the exhibits remind us that art is one of the most powerful ways to feel and share the spirit of Christ.
Featured Artist: Valeriano Ugolini
Valeriano Ugolini is an Italian-born master creator of nativity scenes, residing in Sandy, Utah. Since the time he was a little boy, venturing into the fertile hills of the Emilian countryside with his grandfather, gathering moss and other natural materials for the family's annual nativity scene, Ugolini has been fascinated by the many ways the birth of Jesus Christ can be depicted. His creations range from over nine feet tall to smaller ones, not quite two feet in height.
Valeriano lets individual nativity pieces or sets inspire him to surround them with love and beauty. With a background in graphic arts and an MA in art history, Valeriano uses his personal knowledge of Italian art history, as well as his studies as a youth at the Vatican Minor Seminary in Rome, to create architectural wonders to encase anything from simple to elaborate figurines depicting the birth of the Savior. Each creation is unique, never to be repeated.
Val's workshop is his garage and a room just inside his home. But Val has been known to take over his entire house in preparation for his larger scenes. The smell of freshly sawed wood, spray paint and hot glue means Christmas to the Ugolini family; and more importantly, finding Christ in the happiest season of all.
Share your art
We welcome artists and collectors to share their nativity-inspired pieces as part of this year’s exhibit. Whether your work is traditional or contemporary, large or small, we’d love to hear from you.
Interested in displaying your art?
Please complete this form to tell us about your piece.
Submissions will be reviewed by our display committee, and space is limited. We appreciate your willingness to help us create a beautiful, Christ-centered experience for the community.