Stanley J. Watts: Mormon Artist
Stanley James Watts is an American artist, sculptor, and bronze foundry owner.
Watts was born in 1961 in Salt Lake City, Utah. While in high school, he was designated a Sterling Scholar in art. He attended Utah State University to study art, but failed sculpture and returned home. Gifted sculptor Avard Fairbanks then tutored him in Salt Lake City.
He began small, working at his kitchen table. His first project was a statue of Joseph Smith for the Church of Jesus Christ. Most of his work is life-sized. He created the bronze statue of KFC founders Pete Harman and Colonel Sanders that stands in Salt Lake City in front of the first KFC restaurant. He has created patriotic bronze sculptures, such as ‘’On a Firm Foundation” (of George Washington), that is located at the Freedom’s Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. He created “Calm as a Summer’s Morning,’’ a depiction of the Prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum Smith that is located on the grounds of the Nauvoo Temple. Watts is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
He is also known for his custom architectural bronze work, such as showcased at the St. Regis Hotel at Deer Crest, Deer Valley, near Park City, Utah.
