"One day I would like to share all of my paintings with the people of Utah and the world by having a museum that would display my many works, which now crowd my studio almost from floor to ceiling," Friberg said. "This desire however is not the result of an overactive ego but rather a willingness to share and hopefully inspire young people as I was inspired at a very young age."

Other Utah artists have longed for Friberg to be acknowledged for his accomplishments.

Logan artist Michael Bingham, owner of studio Paint Utah, said it would be a shame if a museum was not erected in Friberg's honor.

"I've always felt like he hasn't gotten enough recognition," Bingham said. "It would be neat for him to get recognition while he's still with us."

Friberg's paintings were first displayed in 1956 at the state Capitol when director Cecil B. DeMille previewed the motion picture. Fifty thousand people came to see the paintings. After that, the paintings toured the world.

Burrows said DeMille estimated the paintings had been seen by more people than any other painting in the world, with the exception of some of the most "celebrated master pieces" such as the "Mona Lisa," Rembrandt's "Night Watch" and DaVinci's "Last Supper."

DeMille commissioned Friberg to create the scenes and costume design for "The Ten Commandments." Friberg moved to Hollywood and worked with DeMille for four years prior to the release of the film.

Friberg's paintings were the basis of what the film was to look and feel like.

"Can you imagine how you would feel just to design the mood for the film — he not only took the assignment but he pulled it off," Bingham said.

He added people don't realize the responsibility Friberg had in making "The Ten Commandments."

Bingham said Friberg's paintings were used as a reference for the special effects team on the film.

"Not only did his (Friberg's) paintings design scenes and set the tone for the film, he also designed the costumes."

Friberg's work was recognized and received a nomination for an Academy Award in costume design. The paintings were also used as the film's souvenir book.

The last time all the paintings from the film were on display was in 2003 in Logan at the historical Ellen Eccles Theatre. Bingham worked with Michael Ballam, director of Utah Festival Opera, to have Friberg be part of the festival.

"The whole project was a result of wanting to meet one of my heroes," Bingham said. "It's not often you get to meet and really spend time with your heroes."

He said they were able to talk for hours about life and art.

"I thought he was open to questions and free to share his thoughts and ideas — I was very impressed with him," Bingham said.

He said they were able to display the paintings, show the film and listen to a lecture from Friberg.

"They say a picture is worth a thousand words — I think Arnold's are worth more than that," Bingham said.