Avard Fairbanks

Avard Fairbanks

American sculptor

Avard Fairbanks

Name	Avard Fairbanks
Birth name
Birth date	March 2, 1897
Birth place	Provo, Utah, United States
Death date	January 1, 1987
Death place	Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Alma mater
Occupation
Years active
Organization
Known for	Sculpture
Notable works	Pioneer Monument (Salt Lake City), Angel Moroni (sculpture)
Spouse(s)
Website

Avard Tennyson Fairbanks (March 2, 1897 – January 1, 1987) was an American sculptor known for his works depicting historical and religious themes. He created numerous public monuments and was a significant figure in the development of Latter-day Saint art.

Early Life and Education

Fairbanks was born in Provo, Utah, to John B. Fairbanks and Lilly Annetta Huish. His father was also an artist, which influenced Avard's early interest in art. He began his formal art education at the Art Students League of New York and later studied at the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.

Career

Fairbanks' career spanned several decades, during which he created a wide array of sculptures. He is perhaps best known for his work on the Pioneer Monument (Salt Lake City), which commemorates the Mormon pioneers. Another notable work is his depiction of the Angel Moroni (sculpture), which is a significant symbol in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Notable Works

• Pioneer Monument (Salt Lake City): This monument is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and honors the Mormon pioneers who settled the area.
• Angel Moroni (sculpture): Fairbanks created several versions of this iconic statue, which is often placed atop Latter-day Saint temples.

Personal Life

Fairbanks was a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and his faith deeply influenced his work. He married Beatrice Maude Fox in 1924, and they had ten children. Fairbanks passed away on January 1, 1987, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Legacy

Fairbanks' contributions to American sculpture and Latter-day Saint art are significant. His works continue to be celebrated for their artistic merit and cultural importance.

See Also

• Latter-day Saint art
• Mormon pioneers
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints