T-R PHOTO BY ROBERT MAHARRY From left to right, Tim Castle, Nancy Adams, Nick Beard and Kristine Kienzle showcase some of the art that will be on display as part of “SEEING ANEW: A LOCAL VIEW” at the Marshalltown Arts and Civic Center (MACC) from June 27 to July 23. An opening reception is set for Friday night at the MACC from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center and C Eye Care present SEEING ANEW: A LOCAL VIEW art exhibit, on display in the Monet Reception Hall at the MACC from June 27 to July 23. A total of 27 Marshall County artists ages 18 and up are participating with a maximum of two pieces of artwork each. The idea: create artwork inspired by pieces from the permanent collection of the Fisher Art Museum at the MACC and its grounds.

Nancy Adams, who is coordinating the exhibit with Nicholas Beard and Tim Castle, said she encouraged artists to not feel restricted by the theme.

“We have some who are submitting works that are based on one of the styles that’s represented in the museum, not necessarily a certain piece,” she said. “Or it could be ‘I love this painting and here’s my version.'”

Artists submitted their pieces June 18-20 with the stipulation of being wired and ready to hang. However, the works aren’t limited to paintings.

“Any medium is possible,” she said. “We’ve got two or three textile artists already confirmed. Somebody’s doing an oil cloth rug. We’ve got 2D and 3D.”

The public is invited to a reception on June 27 from 6 to 8 p.m., featuring live music and refreshments sponsored by MACC & C Eye Care. Izaiah Wilder will be on piano.

“The permanent collection of the Fisher Art Museum at the Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center reflects the legacy of the Fisher family, showcasing world-class artistry for our community and providing unique, accessible experiences. As we prepare to carefully store these treasured pieces to preserve them for future generations, the exhibit serves both as a celebration and a connection,” said MACC Executive Director Kristine Kienzle. “This exhibit honors the rotation of our permanent collection while inviting local artists and community members to discover their place within the museum’s narrative. It offers an opportunity to inspire a new generation of creatives and art lovers, particularly those who may not yet feel a connection to the existing collection. As we enter the design phase for the second half of our permanent collection, set to open in fall 2025, this exhibit serves as a meaningful conclusion to the first chapter of the Fisher Art Museum since the renovations. We invite all to experience the Fisher Art Museum and the amazing talent of our local artists during this reception and exhibit.”

Adams echoed that this exhibit is a collaboration to celebrate the artwork at the MACC and highlight local talent.

“Most people think of the Fisher Art Collection as the Impressionist Collection, right? And Impressionism is the movement that is most broadly represented. But in just the museum part there are seven distinct art styles represented in the current exhibit,” she said. “What we are trying to inform people of is that the collection is really late 19th and early 20th century art. It’s the arc into modern art.”

Cynthia Ragland, owner of C Eye Care, said she’s excited to be a co-sponsor.

“It’s a perfect fit because the art exhibit and event title ‘Seeing Anew’ can take on so many different meanings,” she said. “I’m a believer that what we see depends greatly on the lens we’re looking through. The art exhibited by local artists is a perfect way to exemplify this. Local artists are sharing how they’ve been inspired by the MACC building and/or Fisher Art Collection, and in turn, I hope the public is inspired by the creativity, history and culture that surrounds us.”

Some of the pieces will be available for purchase. Artists are asked to pick up their work July 24-26. To learn more about the exhibit contact Adams at nanceab@partnercom.net or Beard at nicholas50158@gmail.com.