On Exhibit: "Lost in the Weeds"

"Lost in the Weeds" - Kelsey Wilson

June 14 - June 28, 2022

Exhibition Description:

Invasive plant species negatively effect our world in a variety of ways. But before we can take action, we need to get closer to our enemy. Many of these plants are deceptively beautiful and it is their charm and persistence that has allowed them to take over our fields, woods and even our back yards. They are not bad plants, they are just behaving badly in our region.

This watercolor botanical series began in 2020 as the world was shutting down. Like many others, Kelsey turned to nature for solace. As a member of the American Society of Botanical Artists, scientific illustration was a clear way forward for her. This was the perfect opportunity to begin a body of nature artworks that would be healing for people and the environment alike. Each of these botanical paintings took 30-100 hours to complete from the beginning field research to the final watercolor brush stroke.

The continuation of this project has been made possible by the American Rescue Plan, The Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Iowa Arts Council. Armed with botanical art and a spirit of environmental stewardship, Iowans can heal the ecosystem and prevent further damage.

Kelsey will be teaching a "Botanical Drawing" class at the Library on Tuesday, June 28th at 5:30pm.

Artist Biography:

Kelsey Wilson is an artist from Nevada, Iowa. She studied illustration and painting at Savannah College of Art and Design and now works to achieve her ongoing studio mission to bring “Joy through Art.”