Walking into Jerry Anderson’s Silver Reef studio, especially if you are an artist, is like having an out-of-body-experience. The walls, shelves and numerous platforms are covered with dynamic paintings and sculptures—artwork with such deep meaning that you want to spend hours contemplating and asking questions.
One of Jerry’s latest works was unveiled April 21, 2025, at the Washington City Cotton Days kickoff. George Washington in all his splendor now stands larger than his life-size height of 6 feet 2 inches. Says Jerry, "I made him about 6 foot 6 to make him take command ..." In his regal stance with one arm extended, you can shake the hand of the first president of the United States of America. In fact, it is encouraged. You will find this Founding Father bronze in George Washington Plaza near the Red Cliffs Temple at 311 West George Washington Boulevard, on roughly two acres, enhanced with stately pillars, live cherry trees and rosebushes.
This new and prominent sculpture makes 80 life-size sculptures in all for this renowned artist. Jerry began the project eight months ahead of its unveiling and offered the bronze to the city of Washington, Utah, with the help of Richard Whitehead and Carmen Snow. Mayor Kress Staheli jumped at the chance to purchase this fitting representation for the city.
During the sculpting process, Jerry studied the historical figure’s face, but chose to give this “George” a slight smile.
“It was an honor to create someone this famous,” explains Jerry. “I never cared for the likenesses of the 1700s and 1800s where no one smiled. I wanted to give people a good feeling about the first president of the United States when they shook his hand. He’s always been my hero for what he accomplished in founding America.”
The statue is secured in cement with 8-inch anchors to ensure the bronze will stay put for a century.
Another recent milestone for this renowned artist occurred during Southern Utah University’s 126th annual commencement honoring the class of 2025, where Jerry was recognized for his exceptional contributions to the state, region and Southern Utah University and bestowed an honorary doctorate in fine arts.
“I learned a lot at SUU,” Jerry said, “I worked on campus to mold the first life-size statue I ever made. The bronze was of Sorrel, a draft horse that helped build the college by bringing wood down from the mountains in shoulder-deep snow 100 years ago.”
When asked how he felt about receiving the doctorate, Jerry responded with a laugh.
“Well, I’m 90 years old, so I don’t know how long I’ll have to enjoy it, but it’s quite an honor.”
Southern Utah University’s campus boasts 12 bronze statues by Jerry, and it is worth the comfortable walking tour to find each one.
Wendy Wilson Spooner is an award-winning author who writes about family, faith, grief, art and overcoming obstacles. She is a professional genetic genealogist and serves as national vice-chair for Daughters of the American Revolution and is a contributor to the America 250 celebrations, which will continue through July 4, 2026. In addition, Wendy serves as president of the St. George Arts Commission.
Editor's Note about Jerry Anderson's Book:
"Ten Talents: The Life & Work of Jerry Anderson" by Dolan Anderson is a beautiful 224-page hardbound book containing a photo-biography of world-renowned artist and sculptor, Jerry Anderson. It includes stunning images of Jerry's work in the various mediums used in his art, such as tabletop bronze maquettes, life-size bronze monuments, pen and ink drawings, turquoise jewelry, music and poetry. This book includes a chapter written by Jerry on sculpture materials and techniques. Jerry has created several life-size bronze sculptures that have been placed at veteran's memorials throughout Utah. This book is an excellent resource for the art student or anyone who has a love of the art of the American West. To purchase, visit jerryanderson.com or email at info@jerryandersongallery.com.
I wanted to give people a good feeling about the first president of the United States when they shook his hand.