March – April Artist on Display: Kelsey Wilson

Foreign and Cultivated | Kelsey Wilson

MARCH – APRIL 2024 | Artist on Display

Humans and plants have a storied and complex relationship. We depend on each other to survive. The botanical paintings in this room represent plants that are decorative, edible, or invasive. Getting to these plants better through observation and by pondering their prevalence tells us almost more about humans than the plants themselves.

As an artist, I find it deeply satisfying to closely observe their unique textures and colors. I like to think of these paintings as plant portraits rather than an idealized version of the species. Imperfections are welcome. Scuffs, wrinkles, and insect damage tell the plant’s life story.

Why paint invasive plants? These plants were introduced to our landscape, whether intentionally to solve a problem or by chance as people move through the world. As an artist focusing on plants, I’ve deliberately chosen to portray invasive species to gain and share understanding.

I find that while invasive plants are a nuisance and cause innumerable problems, they can be beautiful. In fact, they harbor no ill will at all. They are just trying to survive, and they are very good at it. I hope that by giving them more attention, we can help Iowan’s recognize these plants and work to restore our natural ecosystems. With our help, we can repair the reputation of these plants rather than thinking of them as enemies.

Learn more about Iowa’s Invasive plants: Lost in the Weeds | Kelsey Wilson Studio

Support this project and receive a booklet: Contribute to Lost in the Weeds

By Wheatsfield|March 1st, 2024|Categories: Art Gallery, Blog|0 Comments

My name is Han (they/she) and I am a nonbinary illustrator based in Ames, Iowa and a Wheatsfield employee since 2018. I received my bachelor’s degree in Biological and Pre/Medical Illustration from Iowa State University in 2020. My work highlights scientific themes of biology and anatomy, sometimes intertwined with surreal and spiritual elements. I utilize a variety of artistic mediums and techniques in developing my illustrations. I channel my creativity to explore the connection between art and science and illuminate the magic of the natural world.

The works on display are not for sale, however I am open for commissions!

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Email: [email protected]

By Wheatsfield|January 5th, 2024|Categories: Art Gallery, Blog|0 Comments

Nov & Dec Artist: Leslie Hall

What you’re seeing is the work of Ames, Iowa artist, Leslie Hall. Born at Mary Greeley Medical Center in 1981, Leslie has since decided to stay in Ames forever. Being voted Prom Queen of Ames High Class of 2000 she knew a Queen must always stay near her people.

To keep the winter blues away and boredom at bay she is making things. Whether it’s videos for the internet like “Tight Pants, Body Rolls” or her new web series called “Yarn House” But also dipping her brush into acrylic painting, like the ones you might be dining with today. She’s a fan of color, humor, whimsical ideas and story telling with each painting.

All the paintings are for sale and commissions challenges accepted. If you’d like to purchase a painting or a print please text or email the artist at: [email protected] / 515-451-4648

By Wheatsfield|November 7th, 2023|Categories: Art Gallery, Blog|0 Comments

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Display Your Artwork at the Co-op!

If you are interested in displaying your artwork please contact Melissa Lanphere, Marketing Manager, by email, phone or stopping into the Co-op. Please fill out the form linked below to have your artwork considered for display.

Artist Application & Agreement

Art Gallery

March – April Artist on Display: Kelsey Wilson

Foreign and Cultivated | Kelsey Wilson

January & February Artist on Display: Han Fritz

Nov & Dec Artist: Leslie Hall

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