In 2008, Chad Hancey joined the Davis Arts Council Board of Trustees with a clear mission: to expand the council’s support for visual arts and create opportunities for young artists in Davis County. His vision was bold but focused, and his passion for art led to the creation of the Snow Horse Art Gallery, a cornerstone of the arts community we enjoy today.
From the very beginning, Chad’s determination set the project in motion. He worked tirelessly to rally support from DAC’s Executive Director, board members, and even county officials. Securing permission and buy-in from the Davis Conference Center, he paved the way for the gallery’s home.
But vision alone wasn’t enough—it took funding to make the dream a reality. Under Chad’s guidance, DAC raised over $10,000 to install professional lighting and display fixtures that transformed the space into a true gallery. He also secured funding for the prizes awarded to participating artists each year, ensuring the gallery not only showcased talent but also celebrated it.
For years, Chad managed every aspect of the gallery’s annual student art show. He collaborated with art teachers across the county to encourage participation, recruited professional artists to jury the entries, and, alongside his wife Tracey, spent countless late nights hanging each piece of art with care and precision. Their dedication ensured every student’s work was displayed with the respect it deserved.
Chad’s impact didn’t stop with the gallery itself. Each year, DAC selects pieces of student art to purchase and display in its office. Starting in 2024, this annual tradition will carry a new name: the “Chad Hancey Davis Arts Council Art Purchase.” It’s a fitting tribute to a man who has done so much to support and uplift young artists in our community.
The Snow Horse Art Gallery is more than just a space—it’s a testament to what’s possible when vision meets dedication. Chad Hancey’s legacy continues to inspire, offering young artists a platform to share their creativity and talent with the world.
So next time you visit the gallery, take a moment to appreciate not just the art on the walls but the vision and hard work that brought it to life. Thank you, Chad, for making the Snow Horse Art Gallery a reality and for your lasting contributions to the arts in Davis County.
