A Lighthouse, a Legacy, and the Love of Art | Minnesota Artist Exhibition Reflection

This spring, I’ve had the great honor of sharing my artwork at one of Minnesota’s most iconic landmarks—Split Rock Lighthouse in Two Harbors, Minnesota. My current art exhibit, on display at the Split Rock Lighthouse visitor center, features a collection of colored pencil drawings inspired by the wildlife, nature, and northern Minnesota landscapes I’ve spent my life admiring.

To have my work shown in a place so rich with history—overlooking the vast, ever-changing waters of Lake Superior—is a meaningful milestone. Much of my inspiration comes from this region: the quiet woods, the wildlife that appears in my sketches, and the rhythm of the seasons in northern Minnesota. Each piece is a reflection of both the beauty I see and the peace I feel in these surroundings.

Earlier this month, we hosted an artist meet-and-greet event at the visitor center. I had the joy of visiting with guests—some longtime supporters and others just discovering my work. I appreciated the thoughtful conversations and the opportunity to share more about my creative process and the stories behind some of the artwork.

My daughter, Courtney, was there helping document the event. She captured some great moments from the day, and I’m glad to share a few of her photos here.

The exhibit will be on display through April 31, 2025, and the visitor center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. If you’re planning a visit to the North Shore of Lake Superior, I hope you’ll stop by. Whether you're drawn to the lighthouse, the lake, or the artwork, this exhibit adds another layer of inspiration to your experience.

For more details, visit the Minnesota Historical Society event page.

Connection to Earlier Work

Looking back at earlier exhibitions, such as my show at The Lyric, it is interesting to see how each opportunity has contributed to a larger artistic journey.

At the time, those shows felt like individual events. In hindsight, they are part of a continuous progression—each one building toward a more refined understanding of my work and what I want to express as an artist.

Earlier exhibition: Art Show at The Lyric

Ongoing Creative Direction

My inspiration continues to come from the landscapes, wildlife, and quiet moments of northern Minnesota. These subjects remain central to my work, whether in colored pencil or pen and ink.

Each exhibition, each drawing, and each experience adds another layer to that ongoing story.