John Wesley Powell River History MuseumJohn Wesley Powell River History Museum
This unique showcase presents two perspectives of Glen Canyon: Nichols’ iconic 1950s images, captured before the construction of Glen Canyon Dam, and Kish’s contemporary photographs and documentary film, chronicling the canyon’s stunning reemergence as water levels recede.
The exhibit blends art and advocacy, bringing together the work of two artists separated by decades but united by their shared love for Glen Canyon. Visitors will journey through time, witnessing the power of photography and film to preserve, protect, and inspire action for this iconic landscape.
Tad Nichols, often referred to as “the Ansel Adams of Glen Canyon,” dedicated his life to documenting the beauty of the canyon before it was lost to Lake Powell’s rising waters. Alongside conservationists like Katie Lee and Frank Wright, Nichols embarked on expedition after expedition, capturing images that would become his landmark book, Images of a Lost World. His photographs not only immortalized the Glen’s breathtaking landscapes but also served as a call to action for future generations.
In 2021, Dawn Kish, a photographer, filmmaker, and seasoned river guide, was entrusted with Nichols’ original 4×5 large-format film camera by Flagstaff-based printmaker Richard Jackson. Inspired by Nichols’ work, Kish set out to tell Glen Canyon’s next chapter.
As Lake Powell’s water levels receded, exposing forgotten canyons, Kish used Nichols’ camera and book as both tools and inspiration. Inspired by his images, she photographed areas long thought lost and created the award-winning documentary Tad’s Emerging World: Glen Canyon Exposed, which has been screened across the West and internationally since its 2022 premiere.
Don’t miss your chance to learn from acclaimed photographer Dawn Kish at her upcoming photography workshops! Stay tuned to our social media and event communication channels for more information soon.
Thank you to all of our supporters who helped to bring this exhibit to life!
Your continued support is crucial to extending the life of this captivating exhibit beyond its opening run at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Our goal is to share this unique showcase with more venues, and as word has spread, other institutions have expressed keen interest in hosting the exhibit after April 2026. Please consider donating to help us construct the specialized materials needed to transport the exhibit and continue captivating audiences across the country.
All donation amounts welcome!
Donate $191 (the number of vertical feet exposed at the reservoir’s low point): Receive a limited-edition exhibit poster.
Donate $500 or more: Receive a limited-edition exhibit poster AND a signed 16″x 20″ photographic print by Dawn Kish made by master print maker Richard Jackson.
All donations will go directly to the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and are tax-deductible.
Donate Online
Visit our Mightycause fundraising page HERE to donate securely online.
Donate by Mail
If you prefer to donate by check, please make it out to the John Wesley Powell River History Museum, Inc. Write “Glen Canyon Exposed” in the memo line and mail to:
John Wesley Powell River History Museum
PO Box 387, Green River, UT 84525
Thank you for helping us share the powerful story of Glen Canyon’s past and present through this extraordinary exhibit.
Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Adults (18+)
Seniors (62+)
Children (7-17)
Family
$8
$6
$3
$25
Free admission for children under 7, museum members, and Green River residents.
1765 E Main Street
PO Box 387
Green River, UT 84525