BY KAREN BOSSICK

The Sun Valley Museum of Art will hold its final evening exhibition tours of the BIG IDEA project “Gem State” tonight—Thursday, Dec. 3.

The first of the free tours, complete with a complimentary glass of wine, will start at 4:30 p.m.; the second at 5:30 p.m. at The Museum in Ketchum. Each tour will be limited to eight, and face masks will be required. Pre-registration is advised at information@svmoa.org.

The project considers the geology of Idaho and the American West. It notes how Idaho—the Gem State—is rich in both minerals and mountain scenery.

“As we experience a time of profound change in our individual lives, there is value in reflecting on geologic time and in celebrating what those processes have meant for our state,” said Kristin Poole, artistic director at The Museum.

The artwork features a wide range of mediums, including sophisticated abstracted paintings and sculptures. The model Union Pacific train carrying Idaho landscapes through the exhibition room and out into the main gallery will enchant adults and children alike.

The train was created by Blane De St. Croix after he visited geological sites around southern Idaho at SVMoA’s invitation.

Trout Lake, Wash., artist Brad Johnson also has captivated viewers with the process of photography and digital media to create sculptural works on paper of iconic Idaho landmarks such as Hells Canyon and City of Rocks.

While tonight’s tours are the last public tours, the exhibition will be on view from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 31. Admission is free.

Those wishing to schedule private tours for families and small groups may do so at 208-726-9491.