When you combine nature and new ways to think of art, it can make wonderful pieces. At the North Dakota Museum of Art, they have two new art exhibitions that do just that. The two exhibits that deserve your attention this spring and summer are “Guy Nelsons: The tales from the understory” and “From paint to Print: Helen Frankenthaler and the Art of Collaboration.” These thought-provoking exhibitions will run until July 20, offering plenty of opportunities for those to immerse themselves in the beauty and mystery they bring to the art world.
On Thursday, Apr. 10, these two exhibits had their opening ceremony at 5:30 pm. where there were two guest speakers bringing life and understanding to the partings. Guy Nelson himself was there where he went into depth about his works that feature paintings, sculptures, and a video that explores the discovery and mystery of the outdoors. These different medias of art reference the woodlands and prairies of the upper Midwest. The second speaker, Bill Goldston, the co-director of Universal Limited Art Editions, talked about his experiences with Helen Frankenthaler.
Guy Nelson has explored many aspects of nature, including animals’ plants where he advocated for the environment through his works of art. The exhibit focuses on the mysteries of the woodlands and prairies and the challenges plants face, all emphasizing self-preservation, community, and adaptability. He has been making these art pieces for years using natural and synthetic materials, mostly for his sculptures and then switched more towards paintings with acrylic.
Helen Frankenthaler’s revolutionary art is brought to life in “From Paint to Print,” which showcases her journey from abstract painting to innovation print making. Known for the stain-soak technique, now known as Color Field painting, Frankenthaler’s transition to printmaking redefined the medium as a fine art form. Her collaborations with renowned printmakers Tatyanna Grosman and Bill Goldston highlight her transformative impact on the art world. These master printmakers worked with her at ULAE and other printmaker establishments.
This exhibit provides a rare opportunity to see Frankenthaler’s creative evolution, bridging the gap between painting and print. It is an inspiring display of how collaboration can reshape artistic boundaries.
Both of these exhibitions are located in the North Dakota Museum of Art at 261 centennial Drive, which is on the UND campus. It is open during the week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on the weekends from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Whether you are wrapping up your semester or staying in Grand Forks for the summer, these exhibits are perfect for a break. From the mysteries of nature to the innovation of printmaking, “The Tales from the Understory” and “From Paint to Print” promise to engage your senses and expand your appreciation for the arts.
Zoe Booth is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at zoe.booth@und.edu
