Artist Reception: Fri, 9.6 // 5-8pm
Bold colors and unconventional shapes influenced by architecture define my aesthetic, embracing imperfections as integral to the creative process. Every piece, no matter how fragmented or weathered, finds redemption in my hands. As you explore my collection, I invite you to engage with the Play Sculpture table—an interactive space where imagination knows no bounds. Here, you're encouraged to experiment, stacking, balancing, and building your own sculptures, guided by intuition and curiosity. Amidst this playful assemblage, discover the beauty and joy that permeate every corner of existence. What wonders will you uncover?
Artist Statement
Growing up, I learned the art of creation from a lineage of crafters, artisans, scavengers, and scientific thinkers. Their influence shaped my perception of the world, instilling in me a reverence for repurposing and reinvention. By day, I draft and construct luxury homes, surrounded by discarded materials destined for oblivion in landfills. Despite efforts to recycle, the sheer volume of waste overwhelms. In response, I salvage treasures from dumpsters, transforming forgotten scraps into artistic marvels.
My process begins with these rescued materials, which I manipulate with a variety of mediums—acrylics, pastels, oil crayons, spray paint, inks, pencils, and roll leaf foils. Each stroke, cut, drill, sand, and assembly breathes new life into the discarded, resulting in dynamic compositions that reflect the beauty of the natural world. Inspired by the vibrant hues of sunsets, the expanse of skies, the serenity of fields, the depth of waters, the allure of trails, and the intricacies of geology, my pieces capture a small essence of nature's splendor.
Bio:
Born in 1970 in New Jersey, USA, I found my creative roots while growing up in Iowa City, where I developed a deep appreciation for infusing creativity into everyday life. Balancing my passion for art with a career in new home construction and remodeling, I have cultivated a unique blend of craftsmanship and artistic expression.
My artistic journey began at the University of Iowa, where I pursued studies in Metals, Printmaking, Fiber Arts, and Graphic Design, earning a BFA. Since 1992, I have been honing my skills in mixed media art, with a particular focus on Foil Imaging techniques, which I continue to explore in my studio space located in North Liberty, IA. Alongside my artistic pursuits, I collaborate with Rocca Custom Homes, designing, drafting, and constructing custom homes in the greater Iowa City area.
Over the past three decades, my artistic endeavors have continually led me back to themes of reclamation and collaboration. Fueled by a passion for color, experimentation, and salvaging, my work translates my love for nature and modern architectural lines into vibrant, textural, and whimsical 2D and 3D abstract pieces.
Utilizing a variety of mediums including acrylics, pastels, oil crayons, spray paint, inks, pencils, and roll leaf foils, I craft uniquely shaped elements that come together to form dynamic compositions. From cutting and drilling to sanding and grinding, each piece undergoes a meticulous process of creation before being assembled into wall and table sculptures. Inspired by the beauty of radiant sunsets, panoramic skies, vast fields, deep waters, winding trails, and diverse geological formations, my artistry embraces bold colors and wild shapes, celebrating intentional imperfections.
In my world, no piece is too broken, and nothing is too marred to be transformed into something beautiful. Guided by my belief that beauty and joy can be found everywhere, I invite viewers to join me on a journey of discovery through my art and through play.
Artist Reception: Fri, 8.16 // 5-8pm
Iowa’s most famous artist, Grant Wood, began his professional journey in France before returning to capture the essence of his home state. My journey has taken the reverse path: I started by painting Iowa and then ventured to France.
This collection aims to convey the excitement of exploring new motifs while drawing from the deep understanding gained in familiar surroundings. Come and experience the unique blend of old and new in these captivating images.
John grew up on all 3 coasts and moved to Iowa in 1979. He received a BFA from Maharishi International University in 1984 and began painting full time in 1986. His initial focus was the Midwest landscape, with the majority of images coming from southeast Iowa. That focus shifted to small towns and rivers in the region and has recently expanded to Europe. He also conducts workshops and participates in regional Plein Air events. He has exhibited widely in Iowa and elsewhere in the U.S. His work is in numerous public and private collections including John Deere, Iowa State University and the Chicago Federal Reserve.
Artist Reception: Friday, July 5 // 5-8pm
New beginnings are powerful. Paula and Margaret believe that embracing change leads to growth. As painters, they see the journey ahead like a distant horizon, always striving to create new work and move forward. They value honesty and authenticity, stretching beyond past successes, sometimes failing but always learning and growing.
Paula communicates both the conscious and unconscious through her art, finding passion in both the process and the finished piece. She views art as a way to connect with others and express hope and gratitude. Margaret, on the other hand, is exploring new techniques and concepts, using abstraction to engage viewers’ personal interpretations.
Both artists are grateful for new possibilities and challenges, embracing change as a constant that propels life in a positive direction.
I started painting and drawing at an early age. There were always paint brushes and paints around my home growing up. Attending the University of Iowa State allowed me to explore many art mediums and I found a passion for mixed media, texture, and painting. I have always been inspired by nature and abstract art.
When I paint I get lost in the process and as I paint layer after layer revealing a finished piece. The exploration of the paint is unconscious and time stands still. Getting absorbed in the process of painting is tricky and awkward at first but then a solution comes to the surface producing paintings and images with lots of layers and contrast. I find the process of painting and adding textures to my artwork magical and transformative.
Being authentic and honest in my painting process is important to me. When a painting emerges it is quite satisfying and some of it is planned and some of it just happens naturally. Layers in my paintings represent nature and feelings in my paintings. When the observer of my paintings sees something else portrayed in my art work I appreciate that. Art is magical, spontaneous, and from the heart.
Art connects us as human beings. That connectedness makes us Human and we can share all of the magical possibilities of art and life.
I have been an art educator for over 25 years! Teaching in Nebraska and Iowa has given me lot of chances to inspire students with their art making and they have inspired me too!
Bio
I am a native Iowan and have been drawing and painting for over 40 years. I attended the University of Iowa School of Fine Arts from 1986-1989. After raising three beautiful daughters, I began actively exhibiting my work in 2010. I work in both oil & acrylic on canvas.
I paint cityscapes, focusing on the architecture, light and life moving around it. My landscapes tend to be more atmospheric and abstract.
Artist Statement
My eye is drawn to light and shadow, line and pattern. Architecture and street traffic provide me with all these elements as well as solid forms in space with dynamic movement and opportunities for abstraction. I am most influenced by impressionists (historic & contemporary) whose intention is to capture their own time and place through painting.
In my current landscapes, I attempt to hover between impressionism & abstraction in order to capture a mood with light and color, allowing the viewer to interact and imagine what is there.
Artist Reception: Friday, June 7 // 5-8pm
Sonia Perea-Morales is a multidisciplinary artist and writer working in traditional and digital painting, drawing, and design. She holds an M.F.A with a specialization in painting from the University of South Dakota. Her studio is based inside her apartment where she can paint past midnight.
Artist Statement:
For many of us, our first loves can be found in the lines of uncoated paper. These loves change and learn with each passing paragraph; each moment of strife and strength. They make mistakes, they fall in love, they teach us that within loss, hope carries on. We are there with them each step of the way, and in this sense they are there with us as we change and grow.
Tales teach us from a very young age how to deal with conflict, desires, and relationships. They introduce us to new worlds and cultures beyond our immediate spaces. Storytelling is one of the few human traits that is truly universal across all known history. The roots of tales can tell us something about our evolutionary past.
My work is a celebration of all of the stories that will continue to live as long as language and gesture exist. The stories that follow us into adulthood and the stories we have forgotten in mind, but not heart. As a young girl one of my greatest loves was reading about heroes and underdogs, villains and monsters. Each one had taught me that I was not alone. I wanted to explore that feeling again, and bring back to life my love of storytelling.
“Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again.”
C.S. Lewis
Artist Reception: Friday, May 3 // 5-8pm
Come admire the fantastic creations of Burlington High School's talented artists! Explore a diverse array of art pieces on display until May 16th.
Artist Reception: Friday, May 17 // 5-8pm
Join us in the second half of the month to show your support for our local Des Moines County educators! Their inspiring artwork will be on display until May 30th.
This series of work is an experimentation.
A playful combination of materials, textures and colors.
All inspired by the land surrounding me.
Created with materials I’ve used before.
Created with materials I’ve never used.
Capturing the feeling of being among the garden, watching the seeds turn to plants, turn to flowers, turn to fruit.
Capturing the colors of the first ripe tomato, the grapes on the vine, the flesh of a peach.
Exploring the beauty around me.
Amanda Weygand is a mixed media artist based in Ottawa, Illinois. She is the owner of Open Space Art Gallery and Studios in Ottawa. Weygand primarily works with photography and acrylic or oil paints but also has a strong affinity for sculpture. Recently, she, along with her husband and two sons, relocated just outside of town and established a small homestead where they engage in gardening, beekeeping, and exploring new ways of sustainable living. This newfound connection with the natural world has sparked experimentation in her artistic endeavors, leading her to explore innovative methods of creating inks and pigments using materials from her surroundings, combined with those she has used in her previous work.
Weygand's artistic focus delves into the relationship between humans and the natural world. Influenced by the idea of letting go of materialistic objects and embracing the soul's connection with nature, her work aims to convey the positive feelings that arise when the boundaries between self and nature dissolve, forming a seamless connection with one's surroundings.
Weygand has recently exhibited her work at the NCI Artworks gallery in Peru, IL, the Prairie Arts Center in Princeton, IL, and the Open Space Gallery in Ottawa, IL.
Embark on a visual journey through the enigmatic realm of my artistic expression with my exhibition, aptly titled "Enigma." The essence of this collection lies in the intricate puzzles woven into each piece, inviting viewers to unravel the mysteries within.
This expansive showcase features 40 to 50 captivating artworks, making it one of my most substantial exhibitions to date. Thirty of these unique creations are available for acquisition, allowing art enthusiasts to bring a piece of the enigma into their own spaces.
Artist Bio
James Walker Henry (born 1961) - an American surrealist painter living in the state of Iowa, the Heartland of the United States of America. For the last Thirty years, Henry has created over one thousand surreal works of art that addresses social and political issues, documenting events and ideas through paint and brush.
Henry's surreal works of art can and has been seen nationally and internationally, giving his audience many different views on life. These surreal images, some beautiful and some blunt and harsh, make bold statements that will leave a lasting impact on the viewer. James Walker Henry's surreal paintings have been featured in numerous art publications such as 'Manhattan Arts', 'Surreal Magazine', 'Art Speak', and 'New Art Examiner'. He has exhibited in over two hundred and fifty exhibitions (over fifty of them solo) and has had over seventy five newspaper articles written about his art. Today, Henry's works have been added to major corporations and private collections around the world including collections in Ireland, France, England, Brazil, South Korea, Holland, and Germany. As Henry's works of art receive high recognition and very positive reviews, the demand for his art increase and are sought after from collectors everywhere.
Mirrors and Milagros : A Collection of Art Collage By Corinne Stanley
Inspired by living in Mexico, my collage art narrates an engagement with the Mexican culture. Mirrors, milagros (tiny metal figures representing prayers) tin hearts and sequined images on cloth reflect a vibrant and sacred environment. Borders created with loteria (bingo) cards and Spanish playing cards (naipes) colorfully represent popular culture. Figures of the Divine Feminine (La Virgin de Guadalupe, Anima sola,) and Frida Kahlo give tribute to an intersection of art and the sacred female journey..
Corinne Stanley is a poet, memoirist and artist who lives in Iowa City. She has published two books of poetry (Breathe into the Knowing, They Say this Is Light), a translation of Spanish poet Esther Bendala Pavón’s work (Silence from the Forest/Silencio del bosque), a memoir (La tercera luz: A Poetic Journey Through Spain) and has a forthcoming poetry chapbook from dancing girl press, (Down into the Upward Golden.) Her poems appear in Feminist Studies, The House of Zolo, Quartet Journal and the San Diego Poetry Annual. Stanley’s collages have been sold at the Iowa City Farmers’ Market and other venues. Art exhibits include the 2023 Iowa City Spring Gallery Walk the November 2023 gallery display at Washington Public Library, and the Art Center of Burlington (February 2024.)
Embark on a visual journey into the world of local tattoo artists. Explore intricate designs and bold colors as each piece tells a unique tale of skill and passion. Join us in celebrating the artistry of ink, where traditional canvases become a showcase for extraordinary narratives.
The annual All Member Show concludes our calendar year in our Gallery. Over 50 Art Center members are represented in this show. Every piece of artwork displayed is created by our members and varies from fiber art to mixed media and everything in between. This is always a popular show and many shop the artwork for holiday gift, most artwork is affordable and locally made.
Nearly 50 artists and 130+ pieces of art are being showcased in this small art exhibition! All pieces are less than 12" in any direction. Lots of affordable art, making great holiday gifts ideas!
Artist Statement
Originally from Iowa, Tim Van Ginkel earned an MFA in printmaking from The University of Iowa and a BFA in printmaking from Western Illinois University. Following his graduate studies Tim taught photography at Southeastern Community College before serving three years as an Instructional Assistant Professor at Illinois State University where he taught all levels of lithography. A mix of print and painting techniques, Tim's current work explore systems and structures of organization. The works can be seen as field notes of his observations, experiences, and his attempt to make personal associations. Drawing from source materials ranging from photographs to iconic symbolism, his work explores ideas of family, friends, and belief systems. Tim was previously an Assistant Professor of Printmaking at the University of New Mexico and co-taught a collaborative lithography class with the Tamarind Institute. He currently resides in Iowa.
To me, successful art works in any medium are a balance of complex forms. Although visually abstract, my work is profoundly influenced by the natural world. In daily life, I practice active listening and observation. So, while my work does not tell stories, it is a reflection of deeply immersive observations and preverbal experience. I am committed to sustainability and social justice issues as well as mentoring and giving back. When possible, I create work that has a dual purpose as both wall and functional art.
Artist Statement
I use only my own handpainted, monoprinted fabrics in my work. I love the drag of a brush on fabric. A large-scale, exuberant canvas is thrilling. My recent works often add ink drawing to the mix. I juxtapose active forms with quiet, inward ones, motion with stillness. In music, the silence between notes is just as important as the notes themselves.
As a musician, painting and printing fabrics is like playing an instrument or improvising, with an immediacy and dialog with process. Composers and musicians such as Shostakovich and the Silk Road Ensemble enable me to inhabit color.
Recently, I have paired my Tarps and Scrolls with natural phenomena, using photography in short-term installations.
Trained as a printmaker, my interest in fiber art and “making things” began in childhood. I have a family heritage in music and printmaking as well as business. I received my BFA in printmaking from Indiana University and have exhibited and taught at various locations throughout the country and abroad. I’ve also been a cultural and small business advocate, having served as longtime manager, marketing director & co-owner of Iowa Artisans Gallery in Iowa City. I also currently serve as President of the international textile nonprofit, Surface Design Association.
Janice’s paintings are motivated by her admiration for rich color and the play of light and shadows on and through objects. She is inspired by nature in most of her artwork while also enjoying painting still-life settings. Janice hopes viewers of her work will slow down and be reminded of the beauty found in the simple things around us each day.
Bio
Janice has earned a BFA in her home state of Louisiana. A largely self-taught artist she took several watercolor classes while in New Orleans. Janice has continued exploring art while participating in many workshops. Janice finally had room for her talent when her family moved to Iowa in 1986 and purchased a home in 1987. Her new home art studio allowed her a place to create her many watercolor paintings that have been in juried shows across Iowa and many exhibits across eastern Iowa. Janice has maintained a signature member status in the Iowa Watercolor Society (IWS) since 1994.
"I weave tapestries and fiber collages with a wide variety of materials. My pieces draw their inspiration from sky, water, land, and vegetation. In my current work, I am concentrating on what we stand to lose because of climate change and the dire necessity of countering this threat."
Bio
Fiber artist Jan Friedman has been weaving since 1974. Jan received her M.A. in Textile Design at the University of Iowa in 1980. She has conducted workshops in weaving, color, and dyeing throughout the country. Her tapestries and framed collage pieces have been featured in numerous invitational and juried exhibits and have been commissioned for corporate collections across the United States.
As long as I can remember, I have been drawing. I wrote and illustrated my first book at age seven abut Pigs. Unfortunately it was not a Bestseller. However, the one thing I remember most was how proud I felt when Mom asked me to show my book to Aunt Helen.
It's in the simplest moments that dreams are made.
Bio
I am a graduate of the WACO Community School District in SE Iowa and earned my B.A. in Art Education at Iowa Wesleyan. I was greatly influence by the illustrations of Garth Williams within my favorite author, Laura Ingalls Wilder's Little House Books, Mary Cassatt's paintings, and my mom and sister who dabbled.
It all started with Pete the Pothead. As I built him, he took on a life and personality of his own. From him “Souls of the Skunk River” was born. I have no desire to create perfect people, they don’t exist. I love the relationship I have with my clay souls and sharing them with you. My people are a combination of life experiences, imagination, sights, smells, feelings, and humor. They might be your relative, your neighbor or yourself. Please enjoy getting to know them
My work is a balancing act between the sensuality of forms and the innocence and playfulness of the materials I use: sparkling rhinestones, chunky ceramic, feathery pom-poms, sumptuous fabrics, and glossy vinyls adorn bodily forms. My sculptural pieces embrace and empower women's sensuality and femininity rather than hiding or denying it, as well as acknowledging the awkwardness, humor, and performance that can come with it. The forms I use reflect my interest in bodily adornment: they imply bodies, brooches, heels, earrings, and nipple tassels, among other things.
Ali Hval Bio
Ali Hval (she/her) (b. 1993, Sacramento, CA) is an artist currently living and working in Iowa City, Iowa. She earned her MFA from the University of Iowa in Painting and Drawing with honors, and BFA in Painting from the University of Alabama with honors. Her work is interdisciplinary, combining ceramic, fabric, installation, and painting. The forms and materials she uses reflect her interest in adornment and the relentless critique and politicization of the body.
Formerly, Ali was a Visiting Assistant Professor in Painting and Drawing at the University of Iowa. She has received grants from the Iowa Arts Council as well as the nationally competitive Windgate Fellowship by the Center of Craft, Creativity, and Design in Asheville, North Carolina. She has been published in New York Jewelry Week and was a resident at the Chautauqua School of Art. She has exhibited her work across the country, including at Ceysson y Bénétière in New York City, Site: Brooklyn in New York, and South Bay Contemporary in Los Angeles. She has had mentions in CultBytes and The New Yorker. Most recently, she was the Stuart Artist-in-Residence at South Dakota State University.
Also an avid muralist, Ali has completed over 30 public murals and projects in various communities across the US. These murals have ranged from large-scale projects for nonprofits and municipal entities, to projects which have directly involved community members in the painting and designing process.
“My art is a reflection of my life. My compositions are full of dimension, expression, texture and pattern. I approach the work intuitively by laying in color choices, be it paint, papers or prints. I am always striving for an aesthetic surprise. My ongoing goal is to keep an open mind, expand my perception and continue to create.”
Bio
Corrine Smith is an independent mixed media artist and educator.
She received her MFA from the University of Kentucky in 1983
A Rock Island native, she returned to Rock Island with her family in 1989. Upon her return, a stay-at-home Mom, Corrine became active and involved in many school and community art projects and programs working as a visiting artist/teacher.
She was the co-director of “Kaleidoscope” (a children’s art program) 1996 - 2020. She joined the faculty of Augustana College in 2004 and continues to teach as an Adjunct Assistant professor of Studio Art. Her work can be found in Regional, National, and International Exhibits, as well as private and corporate collections.
Artists Statement
The evolution of my art has been a natural additive progression. My art is a reflection of my life. I have yet to exhaust exploring the formal elements and principles of design.
While some works take on a recognizable structural imagery, I enjoy creating nonrepresentational works as well. My compositions are full of dimension, expression, texture and pattern. Currently my choice of media is acrylic paint, handmade papers and mono-prints.
Each piece begins with several drawings combined; often one over another. Rendering form and space guides the underlying structure and composition of my work. I approach the work intuitively by laying in color choices, be it paint, papers or prints. The process of making paper and mono-prints allows me to produce a unique unit to add to the composition; the papers and prints are selected for immediate color and texture. As the composition develops, each piece is rotated, and shapes and lines get covered up and often new ones are created. For me, the evolution of the painting is an exciting, unknown journey that compels me to create.
My largest source of applicable information is from the preceding painting. I am always striving for an aesthetic surprise. My ongoing goal is to keep an open mind, expand my perception and continue to create.
PLEASE STOP BY AND SEE THE INCREDIBLE ABSTRACT WORK OF JEREMY JOHNSON. JOIN US ON 2/3, 5-8PM TO MEET JEREMY AND HEAR HIM TELL MORE OF HIS AMAZING STORY AND HOW IT INSPIRED HIM TO BE THE ARTIST HE IS TODAY.
My name is Jeremy Johnson. I am forty three years old. In 2009, I was diagnosed with an Pilocystic Astrocytoma. A brain tumor in my fourth ventricle of my brain and cerebellum, along the brainstem.
My story began back in my teen years. I suffered from balance issues and was told I had an inner ear issue. As the years past my balance continued to get worse and my nausea too.
By the time I was thirty I started having eye issues from the tentacles embedding into the optical lobe and other parts of the brain. In October of 2009 I was sent to an ENT surgeon in Chicago, IL with intentions to remove loose crystals in my inner ear causing the balance and nausea, eye issues. After listening to my story and symptoms for about five minutes, the Dr told me it was not my inner ear but something in my brain touching the back of my head. He suggested I get it checked asap. After an MRI I was told about the tumor and was told to see a Neurosurgeon immediately.
The first surgeon I met with guaranteed me I would be in a wheelchair and probably for the rest of my life if he did a biopsy in that area of the brain. The second surgeon refused to perform the surgery do to where the tumor was located. By some miracle I found a surgeon. On February 11th, 2010 I had surgery for what was only supposed to be a biopsy that turned into an emergency removal. Dr. Fredrick Myer from Rochester, MN removed ninety percent of the tumor, not knowing what damage may have been done. Letting my mother know my coordination my resemble that of a fish out of water. Letting me know my recovery would be long and very tough. They told me I would always live with vertigo and other neurological issues. Most likely not able to do certain things ever again, like run.
They let me know I truly am a walking miracle.
I was determined to get back to what I was and do whatever it took to get there. I had to file for bankruptcy and move back home with my parents. Since I could not drive and also had to wear an eye patch do to sever double vision plus the vertigo, I got bored.
I decided to try painting again since my childhood dream was to be an artist. I loved art and in high school got straight A’s but was told there is no money in art and I needed to find a skill I could bring a paycheck home weekly. So I became a welder, which I found to be an art in itself. I found do to my lack of coordination I could not draw as well as I once could, but noticed when I played with paint I could create art through energy, creating contemporary abstract art through the spirits guiding me. Contemporary abstract has always been something I loved but could never do until after the surgery. This was when my life changed! Everything I had been through was a blessing in disguise. It renewed my love for art. I found it truly made me happy and feel I found my true calling. Creating is so therapeutic, such great outlet for ones energy for the artist and the beholder.
In 2013 I was in Chicago, IL and doing very well with my art. I also started having seizures after a bad fall separating my shoulder. Do to the location of the tumor I could not take prescription meds and my seizures got worse causing amnesia and setting me backwards.
Without creating art through my emotions I don’t know if I would have been capable of keeping my head up to get through another day. I have been seizure free for four years and going strong! Regaining my memory and abilities. Art is a stepping stone with the ability to pave new paths in ones life. I realize I have so much to share through my art and story and so much to give. This is my dream!
About the show:
A display of photography from various artists showcasing their visions of travel and culture from all over the world.
Rose Waldrup:
Artist statement:
These photographs encapsulate the very essence of downtown Burlington. They are timeless pieces of art that represent the character + culture of the past and current eras.
Bio:
Rose Waldrup, age 24, of West Burlington, is a professional photographer/graphic designer who has been behind a camera most her life. Landscapes and nature are her primary focus. She enjoys an adventurous lifestyle with her husband, one year old daughter, and two dogs.
Brandy Swartz
Photography is my best friend, my protector, my teacher and my passion. Travel is in my blood and forms all of my dreams. Together, photography and travel is the backbone of my existence that carries creativity and fire with me into every single wedding I capture
Abigail Costanza
I’m a photographer (+ equestrian, former rodeo trick rider, avid traveler, nature lover, lifetime adventure seeker, and wifey to Sean) and I’m here to tell your story. I found photography at a young age, posing my sisters for backyard shoots under blossoming fruit trees. After lots of disposables and a Polaroid Mini, I got my first Canon Rebel in Highschool and began taking Seniors' portraits (all on film!). I have loved capturing all of life's beauty ever since. The ability to freeze moments in time documenting love and life in all of its wild and wonderful forms is something that I am truly thankful for and passionate about.
John Gaines
Artist Statement:
As a child we would travel across the country in our station wagon and my mom plotted the journey on a large USA map. That sparked a love of travel and later I combined my profession of photography to create images from future journeys. Here is a selection of images from my travels around the world and in our own backyard.
Bio:
I began my photography career working at the school newspaper at Valley High School in West Des Moines. I was lucky to win some awards and then attended Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky and earn my degree in photojournalism. I returned to Iowa and began my newspaper career in Fairfield, where I was awarded Iowa Division II Photographer of the Year in 1987. I then came to Burlington in 1989 and worked at the paper as photographer, photo editor, newsroom coordinator and managing editor before ending my time in 2020. Once in Burlington I also paid off my student loans and got a credit card and bought a plane ticket to Spain to begin my overseas travel. I would use my camera as an extension of my journey for memories and moments.
Molly Koenig
My name is Molly Koenig. I'm a gal born and raised in the Midwest, and blossomed in the Wild West. After five years living and working in the Denver, Colorado and Portland, Oregon metropolitan areas, I've relocated back home to Moline, Illinois to rediscover the Heartland, spend time with my family, and try to make a living rocking non-profit accounting and making photographs.
I like honest, imperfect visual storytelling. Photographs help me understand and celebrate where I am and who I am. Which means, this is a place for my professional work and also my personal work. And why, everything you see here is a pictorial testament in journeying to find my spot.
The annual All Member Show concludes our calendar year in our Gallery. Over 50 Art Center members are represented in this show. Every piece of artwork displayed is created by our members and varies from fiber art to mixed media and everything in between. This is always a popular show and many shop the artwork for holiday gift, most artwork is affordable and locally made.
Artist Statement
I love light and what light creates in the world I see. For over forty five years I have been chasing light with film and camera. This journey instills a fascination within me of shadows and textures produced by nature, enabling me to look at the world with close observation. The basic blocks of light and shadow, seen through the lens of a large format camera, displays the intricacies of the existing world around us. My traditional process of photography and printmaking enhances my desire to continue photographing in this traditional form.
Definition of monochrome
1: involving or producing visual images in a single color or in varying tones of a single color (such as gray)
By distilling our world of color into values of gray, I encourage the viewer to delve closely into the intricacies of light, shadow, and texture of our everyday life.
The traditional black and white film/paper process employed in all my work directly converts the visual color spectrum to monochrome, no manipulation required.
Her artwork in metal is contemporary in style, often abstracted and organic in nature. She uses mild steel, Corten steel, stainless or aluminum, and usually enriches the work with the use of bold, attractive colors. Overall her artwork has an authenic energetic, warm and welcoming feel to it.
She usually works around a certain theme and explores this theme throughout a series of works. One of them is "Metamorphosis" series, where she explores the different stages of the butterfly and in particular the struggle of the butterfly to emerge out of the cocoon. Another one is the "Migration" series and the recently explored "Botanical" series. Her fascination for "Trees" led to her largest creation so far (16ft -20ft) at Terra Park in Johnston, IA, which is interactive and extremely well creceived by the Johnston Community.
Members of our Gallery committee are featured in the show Hang It Up. Pieces range from photography to oil and IDA (Ingredient Driven Art) to pastel.
“Nostalgia” is a tribute to carefree childhood. From familiar board games to youthful carnival rides, follow Cevin Cox on a journey back in time.
BIOGRAPHY
Christopher continues to pass on his love of art to his students and endeavors to broaden his artistic skill set by learning to weld and practice metal fabrication. The creative mind should never cease thriving to experience new things.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My work is created in an abstract style, incorporating varieties of bright colors, patterns and textures. Cartoonish figures are used as a vehicle to depict my experiences of the magic, wonder, stresses or absurdities of everyday life or as a personification of interesting scientific concepts or terminology. My inspiration comes from a variety of places. It could sprout from a figurative sketch, something thought provoking I have read or seen, or derived from personal
introspection and belief.
I like to work in a variety of mediums: acrylic, spray paint, wood and wire assemblages, and most recently oils. The artworks are usually started by playing with the media in a haphazard, chaotic way. I layer colors, splatter paint and stencil patterns, eventually portioning off areas with controlled outlines. Though the kaleidoscopic whimsy of the artworks may be what first draws attention, I challenge the viewer to discern underlying metaphors.
The show is titled “Pathos”, a word of Greek origin meaning experiencing the self through storytelling, emotion, and metaphor.
The paintings and sculptures use bright colors and a playful abstractness to explore a variety of subjects: personal experiences, magic and fantasy, and the curiosities of science and nature.
BIOGRAPHY
Christopher Mulder is a South Dakota native, but moved to Burlington in 2003 to begin a teaching career. He has been employed by the Burlington Community School district as an elementary art teacher for 19 years.
He began to develop his artistic voice while pursuing his Bachelor of fine Arts degree at the University of South Dakota. There, he honed his drawing and painting skills, dabbled in photography and printmaking, and ultimately chose sculpture as his emphasis. Christopher learned traditional woodworking techniques with mallet and chisel as well as using a chainsaw and other power tools. He also found a love for incorporating wire, bits of metal, leather, and other discarded, leftover materials.
During his time in college, he also became interested in creating works of art that were clandestinely placed in public spaces and left to “live” for as long as they were allowed to stay there. Some of the works were small cement figures, in groups, set in places of high traffic about the campus. Others, large abstract carvings tied hanging from trees, left among the hiking trails outside town. These temporary “installations” eventually led to an interest in creating murals and
other sanctioned public works of art.
Christopher continues to pass on his love of art to his students and endeavors to broaden his artistic skill set by learning to weld and practice metal fabrication. The creative mind should never cease thriving to experience new things.
ARTIST STATEMENT
My work is created in an abstract style, incorporating varieties of bright colors, patterns and textures. Cartoonish figures are used as a vehicle to depict my experiences of the magic, wonder, stresses or absurdities of everyday life or as a personification of interesting scientific concepts or terminology. My inspiration comes from a variety of places. It could sprout from a figurative sketch, something thought provoking I have read or seen, or derived from personal
introspection and belief.
I like to work in a variety of mediums: acrylic, spray paint, wood and wire assemblages, and most recently oils. The artworks are usually started by playing with the media in a haphazard, chaotic way. I layer colors, splatter paint and stencil patterns, eventually portioning off areas with controlled outlines. Though the kaleidoscopic whimsy of the artworks may be what first draws attention, I challenge the viewer to discern underlying metaphors.
featuring:
These two exhibits feature the young talent of two local high schools.
BHS Student Art Exhibit // May 3-11
West Burlington Student Art Exhibit // May 17-22
Judy Bales
Building on 30 years of experience in diverse artistic endeavors, including fiber artist, fashion artist and public art design team member, Judy Bales creates art that is the exciting and improbable marriage of cold industrial materials and the sensuous qualities of nature. She utilizes industrial materials, many of which are found, recycled, or salvaged, in an ongoing effort to reveal beauty in unlikely places.
Janet Bergeron
I've been making art quilts for over 20 years. My special loves are abstraction, painting and dyeing fabrics, and landscapes. I am a member of Studio Art Quilts and have exhibited nationally. I started sewing in 4H, home ec, and have taken many art classes over the years.
Carine Brown
I am Carine Brown, born in Singapore, a watercolor artist and also use paper fibers to create paintings for over 20 years. The fiber media is one of my favorites to create paintings and I totally enjoy doing.
Jean Caboth
I am a fiber artist working with collage printing on fabric which is then embellished with hand embroidery. I have been doing this type of work since 2010, when I took a workshop at the U of Minnesota in this method of fiber work.
Pam Calderwood
I have been sewing for 50 years, quilting for 30. In recent years I have transitioned from traditional quilts to art quilts. I enjoy not using patterns because it's always a surprise how the piece will turn out.
Susan Cunningham
Four years ago, I spotting a needle-felted penguin in a yarn shop in Maine. I purchased wool and a barbed needle and was immediately hooked on the craft. I roll and stab bits of wool roving to create 3D, whimsical animals, birds, mushrooms, flowers, and gnomes, as well as 2D paintings on wool and linen.
Jan Friedman
I weave tapestries and fiber collages with a wide variety of materials. My pieces draw their inspiration from sky, water, land, and vegetation. In my current work, I am concentrating on what we stand to lose because of climate change and the dire necessity of countering this threat.
Karen Ihrig
The sensual qualities of natural fibers—especially wool—captured Karen’s creative imagination early I life and has never left. So many possibilities. So little time. Vocation: English teacher (retired). Avocation: creating things (on going). “Seeing what everyone has seen and thinking what no one has thought” IS the creative experience in All forms of endeavor: teaching, art, or the civic duties that have been important in her life.
Rebecca Kobos
Rebecca’s work combines strong colors, line, shapes and textures. She uses fabric and free-motion stitching to create realistic and whimsical images in her collages. Her pieces often include both commercial fabric and fabrics that she hand-dyes.
Susan McIntyre
I am a mixed media artist currently working in fibers. I call my process "Bricolage: something constructed or created from a diverse range of available things." I enjoy experimenting and pushing the boundaries of traditional art quilting, using unconventional materials and techniques. I'm originally from the southwest U.S. and my studio is now located in Grinnell, Iowa.
Maria Montalvo
Maria Montalvo is a fiber and paint artist from Macomb, Illinois. She joyfully and continuously explores new ideas and methods in these mediums.
Marilyn Moore
I have been intrigued with baskets for many years. Thinking about what can be placed in the basket, what gives life to the inanimate object of the basket informs the way that I look at my work. The basket is the container of things needed to maintain my life, utilitarian as well as beautiful. Memories, mementos of my own life process, are kept in the baskets that I make. An ancient art form, used in many cultures for ceremonial purposes as well as for functional household uses, it remains my way of linking myself to the continuum of basket artists past and present.
Kathy Neff
I enjoy paper making because it is so versatile. It can be sculpted like clay or manipulated like cloth. My ideas are sourced from nature.
Lisa Nelson
Lisa Nelson has been a professional felt artist for 7 years, and continues to be amazed and inspired by the versatility of wool and the textures and shapes that can be created. She lives on a quiet river near Janesville, Iowa, and when she’s not felting, she enjoys horseback riding and baking. As a life-long-learner and former public school teacher, she also dedicates time to learning new techniques from others and delights in teaching people about the magic of felting with wool.
Meg Prange
Meg Prange lives on a farm south of Russell, Iowa with her husband and two dogs. She has been creating vibrant, imaginative hand-appliqued fabric pictures since 1995. Each piece develops within and springs forth with a surprising life of its own.
Elizabeth Rhoads Read
Elizabeth Rhoads Read uses simple materials to create organic sculptures.Her pieces create illusive light, interspersed space and speculation beyond the boundaries of the medium.
Wendy Read
Beginning with the sewing skills learned as a young girl, I have incorporated many of these same techniques and sewing supplies, expanded upon the basics, and incorporated exotic and interesting fibers and materials, paints and dyes, to create my art. This multitude of fibers and materials has become my paint and my canvas.
Rowen Schussheim-Anderson
Rowen Schussheim-Anderson, Augustana College professor of art, has also taught at Arizona State University, the Smithsonian, the National Endowment for the Arts’ Artists-in-Education program, and Appalachian Center for Crafts. She’ was one of two master weavers for the American Tapestry Alliance’s 2018 annual retreat. Her work is included in many permanent collections.
Ann Miller Titus
I work in the tradition of quilt makers before me, using hand applique to create contemporary, abstract surface design. Machine quilting and hand embroidery complement the surface by adding texture and additional design elements. My focus throughout the process is composition, movement, and playfulness.
Joan Webster-Vore
Joan Webster-Vore is a graduate of the University of Iowa, receiving her MA in Textile Design from the Department of Home Economics, and an MFA in Design from the School of Art and Art History. Her work has appeared in numerous competitive, invitational and solo exhibitions both regionally and nationally. She lives in Hudson, Iowa.
Christine Williamson
Christine is a spinner, weaver, knitter, dyer and sewist and often combines these skills to create a fiber art piece. She enjoys trying new techniques with every new work. In this exhibit, she is introducing a nontraditional tapestry weaving technique called Split Shed weaving.
Deborah Zeitler
I began my fiber journey as a weaver, and since have included dyeing, felting, shoemaking, and a braiding technique called Ply-Split Braiding as components of my pieces. I mostly work with wool, silk, cotton, and leather. My interests include handwoven fabric for wearables, Ikat dyed 2D pieces, Ply-Split 3D forms, handmade shoes (both leather and fabric) and functional woven articles.
Barbara Zumdome
Barbara has been raising sheep near Fort Madison for over 60 years. Lamb Lane Farm’s wool is used all over the United States by other artisans to demonstrate the wonders of wool.
featuring:
These two exhibits feature the young talent of two local high schools.
BHS Student Art Exhibit // May 3-11
West Burlington Student Art Exhibit // May 17-22
Judy Bales
Building on 30 years of experience in diverse artistic endeavors, including fiber artist, fashion artist and public art design team member, Judy Bales creates art that is the exciting and improbable marriage of cold industrial materials and the sensuous qualities of nature. She utilizes industrial materials, many of which are found, recycled, or salvaged, in an ongoing effort to reveal beauty in unlikely places.
Janet Bergeron
I've been making art quilts for over 20 years. My special loves are abstraction, painting and dyeing fabrics, and landscapes. I am a member of Studio Art Quilts and have exhibited nationally. I started sewing in 4H, home ec, and have taken many art classes over the years.
Carine Brown
I am Carine Brown, born in Singapore, a watercolor artist and also use paper fibers to create paintings for over 20 years. The fiber media is one of my favorites to create paintings and I totally enjoy doing.
Jean Caboth
I am a fiber artist working with collage printing on fabric which is then embellished with hand embroidery. I have been doing this type of work since 2010, when I took a workshop at the U of Minnesota in this method of fiber work.
Pam Calderwood
I have been sewing for 50 years, quilting for 30. In recent years I have transitioned from traditional quilts to art quilts. I enjoy not using patterns because it's always a surprise how the piece will turn out.
Susan Cunningham
Four years ago, I spotting a needle-felted penguin in a yarn shop in Maine. I purchased wool and a barbed needle and was immediately hooked on the craft. I roll and stab bits of wool roving to create 3D, whimsical animals, birds, mushrooms, flowers, and gnomes, as well as 2D paintings on wool and linen.
Jan Friedman
I weave tapestries and fiber collages with a wide variety of materials. My pieces draw their inspiration from sky, water, land, and vegetation. In my current work, I am concentrating on what we stand to lose because of climate change and the dire necessity of countering this threat.
Karen Ihrig
The sensual qualities of natural fibers—especially wool—captured Karen’s creative imagination early I life and has never left. So many possibilities. So little time. Vocation: English teacher (retired). Avocation: creating things (on going). “Seeing what everyone has seen and thinking what no one has thought” IS the creative experience in All forms of endeavor: teaching, art, or the civic duties that have been important in her life.
Rebecca Kobos
Rebecca’s work combines strong colors, line, shapes and textures. She uses fabric and free-motion stitching to create realistic and whimsical images in her collages. Her pieces often include both commercial fabric and fabrics that she hand-dyes.
Susan McIntyre
I am a mixed media artist currently working in fibers. I call my process "Bricolage: something constructed or created from a diverse range of available things." I enjoy experimenting and pushing the boundaries of traditional art quilting, using unconventional materials and techniques. I'm originally from the southwest U.S. and my studio is now located in Grinnell, Iowa.
Maria Montalvo
Maria Montalvo is a fiber and paint artist from Macomb, Illinois. She joyfully and continuously explores new ideas and methods in these mediums.
Marilyn Moore
I have been intrigued with baskets for many years. Thinking about what can be placed in the basket, what gives life to the inanimate object of the basket informs the way that I look at my work. The basket is the container of things needed to maintain my life, utilitarian as well as beautiful. Memories, mementos of my own life process, are kept in the baskets that I make. An ancient art form, used in many cultures for ceremonial purposes as well as for functional household uses, it remains my way of linking myself to the continuum of basket artists past and present.
Kathy Neff
I enjoy paper making because it is so versatile. It can be sculpted like clay or manipulated like cloth. My ideas are sourced from nature.
Lisa Nelson
Lisa Nelson has been a professional felt artist for 7 years, and continues to be amazed and inspired by the versatility of wool and the textures and shapes that can be created. She lives on a quiet river near Janesville, Iowa, and when she’s not felting, she enjoys horseback riding and baking. As a life-long-learner and former public school teacher, she also dedicates time to learning new techniques from others and delights in teaching people about the magic of felting with wool.
Meg Prange
Meg Prange lives on a farm south of Russell, Iowa with her husband and two dogs. She has been creating vibrant, imaginative hand-appliqued fabric pictures since 1995. Each piece develops within and springs forth with a surprising life of its own.
Elizabeth Rhoads Read
Elizabeth Rhoads Read uses simple materials to create organic sculptures.Her pieces create illusive light, interspersed space and speculation beyond the boundaries of the medium.
Wendy Read
Beginning with the sewing skills learned as a young girl, I have incorporated many of these same techniques and sewing supplies, expanded upon the basics, and incorporated exotic and interesting fibers and materials, paints and dyes, to create my art. This multitude of fibers and materials has become my paint and my canvas.
Rowen Schussheim-Anderson
Rowen Schussheim-Anderson, Augustana College professor of art, has also taught at Arizona State University, the Smithsonian, the National Endowment for the Arts’ Artists-in-Education program, and Appalachian Center for Crafts. She’ was one of two master weavers for the American Tapestry Alliance’s 2018 annual retreat. Her work is included in many permanent collections.
Ann Miller Titus
I work in the tradition of quilt makers before me, using hand applique to create contemporary, abstract surface design. Machine quilting and hand embroidery complement the surface by adding texture and additional design elements. My focus throughout the process is composition, movement, and playfulness.
Joan Webster-Vore
Joan Webster-Vore is a graduate of the University of Iowa, receiving her MA in Textile Design from the Department of Home Economics, and an MFA in Design from the School of Art and Art History. Her work has appeared in numerous competitive, invitational and solo exhibitions both regionally and nationally. She lives in Hudson, Iowa.
Christine Williamson
Christine is a spinner, weaver, knitter, dyer and sewist and often combines these skills to create a fiber art piece. She enjoys trying new techniques with every new work. In this exhibit, she is introducing a nontraditional tapestry weaving technique called Split Shed weaving.
Deborah Zeitler
I began my fiber journey as a weaver, and since have included dyeing, felting, shoemaking, and a braiding technique called Ply-Split Braiding as components of my pieces. I mostly work with wool, silk, cotton, and leather. My interests include handwoven fabric for wearables, Ikat dyed 2D pieces, Ply-Split 3D forms, handmade shoes (both leather and fabric) and functional woven articles.
Barbara Zumdome
Barbara has been raising sheep near Fort Madison for over 60 years. Lamb Lane Farm’s wool is used all over the United States by other artisans to demonstrate the wonders of wool.
The subjects of most of my paintings, both watercolors and acrylics, come from traveling. In this exhibition are included works from Iowa, North and South Carolina, Kentucky, Colorado, and Wyoming. Many of the works are the results of camping and backpacking trips into some extremely isolated places! Creating art works from these adventures is my way of enjoying these places to the fullest and then being able to share them with others.
My stoneware and Raku pottery are an outgrowth of my love of history. Working in clay, creating new forms and combinations of techniques requires historical research into pottery forms of the past and techniques new to me. It gives me a lot of pleasure to know that people use my pottery and include it as a part of their lives.
Mark McWhorter Bio
Mark McWhorter grew up in Ashland, a small town in the hills of Eastern Kentucky. He earned both a BA (1977) and a MA (1979) while attending Morehead State University in Morehead, Kentucky.
Beginning in 1980, he was employed to teach art at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa. Course assignments included a wide variety of subjects from Art History to Ceramics and Watercolor. The opportunity to teach a wide range of art subjects and media is one of the characteristics of working at a community college that McWhorter most appreciated.
In 1984, McWhorter was asked to design the Indian Hills Art Gallery on the Ottumwa campus of IHCC. With the gallery’s completion in 1985, McWhorter was appointed Indian Hills Art Gallery director and curator. Then in July of 1999, he was appointed lead professor of the IHCC Art Department. In the summer of 2020, McWhorter retired from his teaching position at Indian Hills. Since then he has been able to continue his work as an artist full time.
Working comfortably in several different media, his works in clay consist of both traditional and non-traditional utilitarian vessels. Subject matter for his two dimensional works in watercolor or acrylics are usually taken from the rural Iowa landscape, from travels in North and South Carolina, and the Northern Rocky Mountains. “As a Realist, I try to distill what I see down to only those elements that perfectly describe the subject without unnecessary detail and over complicated color.”
McWhorter has exhibited his work in both art gallery and art festival settings in various regions of the United States, including Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, and Wyoming. His works can be found in corporate and personal collections in the United States, Europe, and Japan.
Jane Elizabeth Shank grew up in the midwest, residing in Wisconsin, Illinois and currently Wayland, Iowa. She always looks forward to summer vacations that are spent at the family’s summer home on Madeline Island, Lake Superior. Jane paints in pastel, oil, and watercolor. She shares her views of Midwestern landscapes, Lake Superior, Madeline Island, France, and many other places she and her husband may “wander of” to. It is common to find her expanding her knowledge and experimenting with other mediums.
Artist Statement - Jane Elizabeth Art
I am not fancy. I don’t have an important college degree. I’m not deep, existential or artsy fartsy, but I am a little diferent. It seems that I can produce a lot of work then it sits while I do life for a while. When I get back to it I grade it, improve it, finish it. If I still like it I may get it framed. I want to leave something here before it’s time to go. Something good. God puts so many opportunities in our path. My job is just simply to try not to balk, pay attention and keep trying. Sometimes it’s hard work but I am grateful because the efort always brings me joy.
"A Season of Study” reflects 20 years of study and appreciation of God’s work. My job is just simply to try not to balk, pay attention and keep trying to reflect that. I hope it brings you joy!
Multi-artist Gallery Show titled "Earthly Treasures".
The annual All Member Show concludes our calendar year in our Gallery. Over 50 Art Center members are represented in this show. Every piece of artwork displayed is created by our members and varies from fiber art to mixed media and everything in between. This is always a popular show and many shop the artwork for holiday gift, most artwork is affordable and locally made.
Artist Reception: Friday, November 5th / Live Music by Jefferson Connection from 6-8pm
A small works show featuring artwork no bigger than 12" in any direction from over 40 artists. Get started on your holiday shopping and give the gift of original art.
Bio
As far back as I can remember I have enjoyed seeking ways to capture and express the beauties around me. While raising a family, I set aside my artistic explorations. Upon becoming an empty nester, I dusted off my art supplies. So, with my camera in tow, my husband and I traveled, hiked, and explored. Along the way I created art, exhibited some of these works in various art fairs, judged art works of others, and taught art. Today I continue my pursuits and explorations in the joyous pursuits of additional “Moments in Time.”
"We all have memories of special moments that stand still in time. Whether it’s a sunset or sun shining through leaves or a face that glows, it’s all beautiful. Exploring ways to express these special moments, I have incorporated mediums including oils, pastels, acrylics, watercolors, and most recently colored pencils. I happily present to you my special places and “Moments in Time.”
Carol Gunn is a Bonaparte, Iowa, native who lives just a few miles outside of Bonaparte with her husband Allen. She enjoys gardening, cooking and any type of artwork. She currently is exploring color and techniques of working with pastels. She is a member of Iowa Artist and Iowa Pastel Society.
Carol attended IHCC in Centerville, Iowa, and was greatly influenced by her instructor Richard Dutton. After she graduated with an AA Degree from IHCC, she attended Northeast Missouri State University (NMSU), now known as Truman State University, in Kirksville, Missouri. After graduation graduating from NEMU, Carol taught art at Fox Valley Schools for seven years. When her daughter, Erica, was born, she began teaching in the Harmony School District, where she taught 28 years before retiring. She was blessed with the joy of teaching many students and sharing the wonder of creating art. Many of her students went on to successful careers in art.
Carol is now happily retired and has time to devote to her own works of art. She loves gardening, it’s not a surprise that one of her favorite subjects is floral. She also enjoys doing landscapes and still-life objects.
Artist Statement
"My subject matter tends to vary. I am influenced by color, texture, and reflected light. If an image attracts my attention, I want to draw it. It’s my way of capturing a moment of joy I’ve had while viewing an image. Some of the art I create has a story that goes with it. In other cases, I was mesmerized by something I felt when I saw it. My work tends to be detail-oriented and realistic. Currently my favorite medium is primarily pastel."
The Strange Girls Club...The unlikely pairing of artists working in different mediums yet sharing a common “Strange Girl” theme...to be strange is to be unique. Care to join our club?
Artist Statement - Linda Ross
It’s strange how things progress. In 2014 a friend and I randomly pinched out 2 small head pots, based on a book of Native Artists from Arkansas. The following year, I joined a workshop of a figurative artist who showed me how to throw and alter forms to create figures. I was hooked on the process. It makes sense to me, like a fabric pattern, darting and joining pieces. As a potter of 30 years, I have been influenced by nature and its patterns that I am surrounded by daily. Much of my time has been spent in production of functional wares. I’m not going to lie, the past year was strange… I suddenly had time to create different forms and explore. “My Girls” are the result of this. Each girl is unique, just as we all are. Embrace and celebrate that uniqueness, silliness and yes, the strangeness of it all.
Artist Bio - Linda Ross
Born a maker in Burlington, Iowa, I learned to use tools at an early age. My parents encouraged the never-ending question, “What if?”. They bought my first pottery wheel at the age of 16 and I have never looked back. I graduated with a BA from Iowa State University College of Design. Shortly after graduation I found the love of my life and we built on a farm near Wever, Iowa. We constructed a studio in the barn and I raised two children on my hip, as I worked the clay. Fast forward to 2021, as we near the completion of a new studio. I will begin to answer the age-old question all over again, in new surroundings.
Artist Statement - Mary Ilmberger Scott
It doesn’t matter what path your life is on it is vital for every individual to maintain some level of activity in what brings serenity and gratification. Creating art, my art…does that for me.
My creative process is simplistic with solitude being the key ingredient. More often than not, I gravitate to a palette of muted tones, textures, and colors that bring a soft, calmer color experience. Drawing and scratching into layers of wet paint on wood is a must. For me, wood lends itself to the process far better than canvas.
Much of my work time and space is in my home and studio in SE Iowa near a cornfield. It is here that I can let my creations pass through mind and hands. It is also a refuge for my husband and faithful studio dog, Ted. This is where, for me, life is very good.
Artist Bio - Mary Ilmberger Scott
A native of Lee County, Iowa I dabbled in art my entire life. A first love, I finally got serious in 2010-2011. While my children were still young I had a wonderful opportunity for creative outlets. Working in my art and sharing in retail stores with good friends and fellow artists at The Wild Pear and The Artisans Next Door in Fort Madison, Iowa my creative juices truly
began to flow.
A self-taught acrylic and mixed mediums artist I find inspiration from my surroundings and numerous online art classes/workshops. I love exploring new mediums with
the latest being oil & cold wax.
The life of an artist can be creative in so many ways. My work is extremely gratifying but great relationships is the refining touch.
About Margaret Ertz:
I am a native Iowan and have been drawing and painting for over 40 years. I attended the University of Iowa School of Fine Arts from 1985-1989. After raising three beautiful daughters, I began actively exhibiting my work in 2010. I work in both oil & acrylic on canvas.
I paint cityscapes, focusing on the architecture, light and life moving around it. My landscapes tend to be more atmospheric and abstract.
Artist Statement
My eye is drawn to light and shadow, line and pattern. Architecture and street traffic provide me with all these elements as well as solid forms in space with dynamic movement and opportunities for abstraction. In my landscapes, I attempt to capture a mood with light and color.
I am most influenced by impressionists (historic & contemporary) who represent their own time and place through their art. My intention is much the same-to record glimpses of my personal visual and sensual experiences specific to 21st century American urban life.
When not in his studio, this Iowa resident can be found at the occasional car show or more likely wandering obscure country roads in his seventy year old truck in search of his next automotive muse.
Nash Cox is a self taught Artist who works exclusively in watercolors to create highly detailed automotive paintings. Sourcing images from his own photographs, Nash's paintings present the viewer with a little bit of the soul and a little bit of the history of each vehicle he paints.
An internationally recognized Artist, Nash's paintings can be found in private collections as far as Puerto Rico and Australia.
A signature member of the Iowa Watercolor Society, Nash works from his studio and gallery located in Chariton, Iowa where he lives with his wife, Terry, and their two dogs.
There's a feeling I get from old cars that I feel I understand but can't put into words and I think that's why a paint them. I travel with a camera under my seat and a cell phone in my pocket so I can photograph old cars when I find them. When I find one that has set neglected- that is rusting back into the Earth it was formed from- I get a strong impression of its past as if the car has one last chance to tell its story.
Choosing which vehicle to paint or which image to use is more intuitive than anything. If it feels right it will continue to feel right throughout the painting process.
After a truly exhausting attempt at living a normal non creative life I plunged back into the art world that had consumed my childhood. The moment I tried watercolor I fell in love with it. I don't believe a person can ever truly master watercolor and instead see it as a constantly evolving partnership. I like to say I'm a self taught artist but the truth is each painting teaches me how to paint the next.
Sure, I believe old cars are beautiful, especially cars from the thirties, but classic automobiles also remind me of a time when things were simpler. Today, my daily driver is a rusty but beautiful 1953 GMC pickup. It has become my signature.
I count myself lucky as I am able to take two of my greatest passions, one being art and the other being vintage automobiles, and I get to turn those into a way of life. Yep, going to car shows is part of my job. I am also lucky that my wife, the real love of my life, supports me on my journey.
I look at this show as a homecoming. Not only is it a mini retrospective of the work I’ve created over the past 10 years, it’s my way of thanking the community that encouraged me to be an artist
I come from a family of artists. It was something we just did. My mom and gramma always had projects for me to do. I made paintings, created “rock sculptures”, and pushed sequins into styrofoam.
Many people don’t realize that my first “serious” art classes where at the old Art Guild. Lillian Ruben was my ceramic teacher. She was so encouraging. She treated us like artists, even this dorky middle schooler in the adult class. I remember great conversations about what Lillian was making. She made art making seem like it was just what people did..how they lived their lives.
That’s when it all started.
Biography
Mary Zeran grew up in a family of women artists. Textiles, embroidery, and woodcarving, were their visual language. Abstracted shapes and forms were their words. Each time Zeran picks up a brush or scissors, she immerses herself in the language of her family. As she abstracts flowers, trees, and all the colors of nature, she speaks her mother tongue. This language brings her closer to her family’s traditions, histories, and stories.
Zeran has exhibited nationally and internationally in New York, Seattle, and Chang Mai, Thailand. Zeran’s work is currently featured in a solo exhibit for the CRMA 125th anniversary.
Museum permanent collections include The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY, and Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, Cedar Rapids IA.
Corporate collections include Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, EMC, Des Moines, IA, First Bancorp, Southern Pines, NC, Grafix Corporate Collection; Cleveland, OH, Grant Thorton, Chicago, IL, Human Services Building, Cedar Rapids, IA, Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, IA, Newton Wellesley Hospital, Newton, MA, Raining Rose Corporate Collection, Cedar Rapids, IA, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, The Fallon Companies, Boston, MA, United Fire Group, Cedar Rapids, IA/ Los Angeles, CA.
Zeran is the recipient of numerous awards and honors. She received an Oregon College of Arts and Crafts Residency, and a 2% for the Arts Purchase Prize from the Visual Arts Commission in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Mary Zeran was born in Iowa City, Iowa in 1964. She received her B.F.A. and M.F.A. from University of Iowa. She currently lives and works in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
This 18 woman show was made possible by Karla Mundt. Karla wanted to provide an opportunity for more women to show their work in our gallery.
Rebecca Vorkapich
Carlene Atwater
Cecil Houel
Cathryn Layer
Christine Williamson
Margaret Ertz
Linda Ross
Liz Buhmeyer
Mandy Robertson
Jessica Kirby
Lillian Rubin
Karla Mundt
Lida Derry
Mary Illmberger Scott
Robin Fisher
Susan Garcia
Susan Reinier
Carol Gunn
"The truth will set you free."
For me that truth is in my artwork. Turning two dimensional surfaces into compositions that evoke emotion. Painting and the instruction I have received has changed the way I view the world.
I am set free every time I stand at the easel.
I am set free when I look through the Artist eye.
I am set free to create.
At an early age I formed a deep respect for nature, a respect I transfer to canvas. I am also a musician and my love of music compels me to paint portraits of musicians too. I begin the process with priming the surface black then using an impressionist palette I create my work. Capturing through the Artist eye vibrant colors which evokes emotion, causing the viewer to pause, to think and to enjoy in the now.
I consider my work to be "Renewable Energy". The viewer is renewed with each viewing, much like listening to your favorite music.
Thank you for allowing me to share my art with you.
Ken Reif
Burlington, Iowa native Carol Jean Carter received her BA from Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa and her MA in Art from the University of Iowa in 2002. Carter moved from Burlington to Des Moines in 2001. She has worked on a number of commercial and fine art photography projects.
The first industrial project was Murray Iron in downtown Burlington and later when they moved to West Burlington. This was the oldest working factory still in operation west of the Mississippi at the time.
From late 1990’s through 2010 Carol has been photographing industrial interiors of Iowa factories that have closed or are in the process of closing. Most have been demolished. This series is called “Artifacts of Industry”.
Some of the Iowa industry that Carter has photographed are: Dubuque meat packing plant and slaughter house (most recently owned by Farmland), Burlington Basket Factory, Borden Dairy in Des Moines, Blaul’s and Sons wholesale grocery (circa early 1900’s) and Sheaffer Pen of Fort Madison.
Carter’s photographs take cues from documentary photography but use a more painterly approach to maximize the storytelling element of her work. Her saturated colors and attention to lighting capture the poignant beauty and stories of these discarded places.
Artist, Carol Jean Carter, is an Iowa native currently living in Des Moines.
One of her previous long-term projects, Artifacts of Industry, explored the industrial interiors of Iowa factories that had been closed or demolished.
“The content of my work is somewhat documentary, my concepts are in line with a social commentary, but my printing style and interpretation takes a more painterly approach. I consider my work to be a memoriam to Iowa’s industrial past.”