PARK CITY — As the children examined colorful artwork at the Kimball Art Center Wednesday, immigration didn't seem to be on their minds.

During a discussion with artist Ruby Chacon at the "Arte Latino" exhibit, the McPolin Elementary School fifth-graders were curious about artistic technique and the stories behind the art, created by Utah's Latino artists.

The students wanted to know why Chacon, one of 15 Latino artists with work on display, painted her family.

Chacon said she painted four generations of her family to show their heritage in Utah.

"I grew up thinking we migrated here from Mexico," she said. "I found out we've always been here. The border crossed us."

By the time the exhibit closes April 21, some 1,000 students from seven school districts will have toured it, said Kimball director Pam Crowe-Weisberg.

"It's the best turnout we've ever had at any exhibit," Crowe-Weisberg said. "Our country is becoming more aware of the importance of Latino culture."

It's a coincidence that the exhibit is being displayed at the same time as the national immigration debate is sparking protests across the country, Crowe-Weisberg said. The six-week exhibit, in its second year, was planned months ago and it's impossible to say if the immigration debate has contributed to sparked its popularity, she said.

"I think it's wonderful to have children come into the art center who are interested and excited about art," she said.

Chacon asked about nationwide protests calling for amnesty and immigration reform proposals. The students were aware of the issue, but seemed more interested in the art.

Tali Peters, 10, said, "If you took out all the Mexicans, Utah would be nothing." Peters said the most interesting subject was Chacon's aunt, a downwinder portrayed in one of her paintings.

The students' teacher, Lorrie Mirams, said this is the second year she's brought students to the exhibit to learn about the art.

"It's important that students know what's going on, and learn to accept other cultures," she said.

For 10-year-old aspiring artist Audrey Davison, it was exciting to talk to a painter.

"You can make people immortal by drawing them," she said. "I like the colors."

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