Archive Mode. Call Iowa State Fair Fine Arts Show ended on 5/29/20, 11:59 PM. Call settings are read only. See Current Open Calls

Jurors

Bob Kling

Bob Kling has been exhibiting his paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs throughout the United States and his work may be found in many public and private collections. From his studio in Indianola, Iowa, Kling creates art in a variety of media with a range of subjects that reflects his varied interests in life. Whether exploring the subject of reflections, the produce of the local grocery store, his love of hot-air ballooning, travels throughout Europe, or travels in his garden, Kling paints people, places and things with an eye to make the ordinary extraordinary! 
 
Originally from Shenandoah, Iowa, Kling has an M.A. in painting and a B.A. in art education from the University of Northern Iowa. He has been an educator for 56 years, first as an art teacher at Mormon Trail Community Schools in Humeston, Iowa. He was the head of the art department at Indianola High School for 22 years and has been an adjunct professor at Simpson College for the last 15 years. Kling was also selected as a finalist for Iowa Teacher of the Year.
 
Many of Kling’s paintings have been published in several books and magazines. Kling is also a writer and photographer and was a newspaper columnist for 29 years. He is on the Indianola City Council; has been the announcer for years at the National Balloon Classic Nite Glow; the MC for Bike Down to I-Town; and for two years was King of the Iowa Wine Festival.
 
Visit Bob’s studio at 905 N. Buxton St., Indianola, IA or browse through Kling’s website at https://www.bobklingart.com

 

   Larry Niday

I was honored to be asked to be a juror for this year’s Fine Art Exhibition for the State Fair. It is a humbling experience to be trusted to evaluate the entries from the finest representatives in the art culture in Iowa. It is very pleasing and encouraging to witness the outstanding quality of artwork that was entered in this year’s show. I have been involved in this show for many years, as a participating artist, as a past judge and working as a host during the show. One of the most unique things I have learned about the State Fair Art Show is that it not only showcases and promotes adult Iowa artists, but encourages young artists to show their talents and experience the thrill of showing their artwork to the public. I have especially enjoyed watching the excitement in the younger artists when they bring their families and friends to see their artwork hanging in the show. It encourages them to gain confidence in their abilities and to want to reach out to learn and grow their talents.

My background includes a BA in art from Simpson College, an MA and an MFA in Metalsmithing/Jewelry Design from the University of Iowa.  I currently have a studio in Knoxville where I teach classes and workshops in jewelry design and metalsmithing. I taught one year at the University of Iowa and spent ten years as a member of the faculty at the Des Moines Art Center. 
 

   Denice Peters

Denice Peters took it upon herself to hone and craft her talent and her unique style and created what she calls “Blended Reality”. Denice is drawn to dramatic light and color in realistic styles. The Dutch Masters and the Hudson Valley Landscape artists are her inspiration. She has been doing pastel exclusively for over 25 years. 

Life has a way of dictating our lives in spite of our desires. She’s an Iowa native and grew up on a farm by LeMars, IA, which gave her a deep nostalgic connection to the outdoors and rural life. Denice married her high school sweetheart and raised 2 children with challenges, which didn’t leave much room for art. During the recession, in 2010, she lost her mom, broke her foot at work and lost her job, then lost her dad… all in 7 months! Not being able to find a job, she realized that all she ever wanted to do was be an artist. It was a leap of faith, but she decided to take the plunge. Understanding that she needed to follow her dream, she became a full time artist. Denice has her studio in Denison and also teaches workshops and classes.

She now exhibits regionally and nationally in solo and group shows and galleries, such as Las Vegas, Colorado, Oregon, Minneapolis and Cape Cod. She has received many ribbons and awards, including “Best of Show” and an Honorable Mention in “the Artist Magazine’s” Annual International Competition in 2014. Denice is a Signature Member of the Mid America Pastel Society and a member of the Pastel Society of America, Pastel Society of the West Coast also Iowa Pastel Society. Denice’s work is found mostly in private collections. Available work can be seen at Artisan Gallery 218 in West Des Moines, IA, Xanadu Gallery (online) in Scottsdale, AZ and Synergy Gallery in Storm Lake, IA and on her website, www.denicepeters.com.