When people buy season passes to the Mendenhall Glacier, they’re purchasing access to one of Juneau’s biggest natural attractions. They’re also buying a piece of art by one of Juneau’s most active artists.
Prior to her death in March, Juneau artist Sharron Lobaugh donated a painting she did of the glacier to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center to use for its season pass. The pass bears her watercolor painting of the glacier’s face, and those at the Visitor Center paid their respects to Lobaugh’s family this past Saturday.
Lobaugh’s family celebrated her life at the Visitor Center on Saturday, joined by Visitor Center Director John Neary and others.
“We are deeply appreciative of Sharron’s generous donation of her beautiful work,” Neary said in a release. “She deserves to be recognized, and we are pleased to be able to do so alongside her loved ones.”
Neary presented the family with a framed photo of Lobaugh that also included a sample of the painting. He also gave the family the first five season passes, numbered 1-5. There’s also a framed photo of Lobaugh at the Visitor Center, accompanied by a thank-you note. That tribute will remain in the foyer for the rest of the summer.
Lobaugh moved to Juneau in 1962 with her husband Cliff, who was a veterinarian. Lobaugh was involved in a wide array of artistic endeavors, winning numerous awards and participating in many Alaska art shows and competitions. Her work is featured in galleries across the state, but as her grandson Talon Lobaugh said at Saturday’s ceremony, having her artwork featured at the glacier was especially meaningful for Sharron.
Neary said the Visitor Center will continue to feature local artists on its season passes, which are available for $15. Though people come from all over the world to see the glacier, Neary said it’s vital for the community to have a close relationship with the glacier and Visitor Center.
“We want to keep our Juneau community involved at the glacier,” Neary said, “and artists provide an essential connection between the people and this special place.”
