Provo Rotary Club

Part studio, part museum, Michael Coleman’s creative space is filled with rare artifacts that inspire every brushstroke. Yesterday, the Provo Rotary Club had the privilege of enjoying lunch with Mike followed by a private tour of his remarkable home studio.
A lifelong hunter and fisherman, Michael’s deep love of wildlife began in boyhood—sketchbook in hand, carefully studying animals (sometimes to his mother’s dismay!). Over the years, even caring for orphaned wildlife, his personal bond with nature has shaped his powerful paintings and bronzes.
Born and raised in Provo, he built his career with discipline and determination—once mixing his own paints from primary colors he could barely afford. By age 32, he received a retrospective at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, launching a distinguished career that includes the Prix de West Award and works now found in major public and private collections, as well as temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
We are deeply grateful to Michael for sharing his studio and his story. It was an unforgettable experience.

Today, on National Hugs Day, President Clay Bingham welcomed 21 Rotarians to Brick Oven and shared some exciting updates.
We’ll meet next week at the beautiful home of artist and outdoorsman Michael Coleman
Clay also outlined four upcoming service projects:
1️⃣ Supporting the Community Action Center
2️⃣ Providing 2,000 pairs of shoes for those in need, funded by the Provo Foundation
3️⃣ Our annual Books for 3rd Graders event on March 19 at Provo School District HQ
4️⃣ Collecting Mother’s Day items for children in the Refuge to choose gifts for their mothers
More details on each project will be coming soon.
Clay then introduced two outstanding Timpview High School students in the Provo School District’s Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS) program, which he supervises. Laurel Peterson and Mele Aston are working to increase Provo Rotary’s visibility by launching and building our presence on LinkedIn and Instagram.
As part of their project, Laurel and Mele interviewed members, asking what inspired them to join Rotary and which question from the Rotary 4-Way Test resonates most:
• Is it the truth?
• Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
• Is it fair to all concerned?
• Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
They’ll compile and share our responses soon. Stay tuned!
Recap by Don Jarvis
Don Jarvis
Provo Mayor's Sustainability Advisor
Phone (1-801) 318-6274
Ask me how to reduce your fossil fuel use, expenses, and pollution.