Art Gallery

Art Gallery2026-07-08T13:13:48-05:00

Nov & Dec 2024 Artist: Brenda Backman

Brenda Backman is a contemporary artist known for her evocative use of color and texture, creating immersive landscapes that explore the interplay between nature and emotion. Based in Story City, IA, she draws inspiration from her surroundings, transforming everyday scenes into vibrant, abstract interpretations.

Brenda’s artistic journey began at an early age, fueled by a passion for painting and a fascination with the natural world. She studied at Iowa State University, where she honed her skills in various mediums, including acrylics, watercolors, and mixed media. Over the years, her work has evolved to reflect her deepening connection to the environment and her desire to convey the feelings that nature evokes.

Exhibiting widely in galleries and at art fairs, Brenda’s work has garnered attention for its unique blend of realism and abstraction. Her pieces invite viewers to experience a dialogue with the landscapes she portrays, encouraging a personal reflection on the beauty and complexity of the world around them.

With a growing body of work and a commitment to artistic exploration, Brenda Backman continues to captivate audiences, inviting them to connect with the beauty of both her art and the natural world.

View Brenda’s artwork in the deli seating area through December.

By |November 11th, 2024|Categories: Art Gallery, Blog|0 Comments

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

January & February Artist on Display: Han Fritz

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

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.

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