Mountain West Stop of ‘100 Cleft Portraits’ Tour at Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital

Intermountain Health Primary Children’s Hospital is hosting the Mountain West stop of the 100 Cleft Portraits Tour, a powerful national traveling art exhibition that shares the stories and experiences of individuals affected by cleft lip and palate through portraiture, storytelling, and community engagement.

The free art exhibit will be held at the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art on Saturday, August 1, from 4-8 pm, and on Sunday, August 2, from 2-6 pm (20 S West Temple, Salt Lake City).

Through art, education, and connection, this national travelling exhibit features the stories, strength, and resilience of individuals and families affected by cleft lip and palate, a common congenital birth defects that occur when a baby’s lip or roof of the mouth do not fuse properly during pregnancy.

In addition to viewing the portraits, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities designed to inspire reflection and engagement.

The 100 Cleft Portraits Tour exhibit aims to raise awareness of cleft lip and palate, celebrate the individuals and families impacted by these conditions, and highlight the healthcare resources available throughout the region.

“The 100 Cleft Portraits Tour provides an inspiring platform to celebrate the beauty, courage, and individuality of people affected by cleft lip and palate,” said Dana Johns, MD, a University of Utah Health plastic surgeon and medical director of the Intermountain Primary Children’s Cleft and Craniofacial Program. “We are honored to bring this meaningful exhibition to Utah and create opportunities for families, healthcare providers, and community members to come together in support, understanding, and connection.”

Created by Katie Manning, a UK-based artist, advocate, and trauma-informed coach, the exhibition features 100 striking portraits paired with personal stories from members of the cleft community.

Together, the portraits offer a moving look at the strength, resilience, and unique journeys of children and adults living with cleft conditions.

Manning will also present Trauma-Informed Essentials, a workshop that draws on her lived experience and the personal stories that inspired the collection. Children attending the event can also participate in an interactive art room, where they will create and display self-portraits celebrating their own identities and creativity.

“Every portrait in this collection tells a story,” Manning said. “My hope is that these images help people see beyond a diagnosis and recognize the individuality, resilience, and humanity of every person represented.”

The Intermountain Primary Children’s Cleft and Craniofacial Program, in partnership with University of Utah Health, is one of the premier programs in the nation providing treatment and support for patients with cleft lip and palate and their families.