Eric Anderson, director of the Blanden Memorial Art Museum, explains, “The Blanden has a strong collection of local female artists. This exhibit allows the museum to highlight these artists and connect to a monumental and significant event in American history.”

The new exhibit is titled “Creating Unity: A Centennial Celebration.” It features 27 works from the museum’s permanent collection created by female artists from 1880 to the present. The gallery will be filled with a rich array of color, pattern, textures, and forms incorporating paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics, fabric, wood, and bronze.

In this exhibit, the Blanden invites visitors to explore the concept of unity in multiple ways: unity as a principle of art and design, unity in the context of honoring the combined effort by American women that fought for a voice in democracy, and unity as the collective creative vision of women artists.

“My favorite part of the new exhibit is seeing the work by so many Fort Dodge artists on display” Anderson said. ”I also like the rich diversity of mediums, subjects, and artistic styles explored and expressed in the show.”

Unity is accomplished in many ways. Within the setting of history and visual art, the Blanden’s presentation offers engaging narratives and discourse which frame an environment of learning and understanding. At the heart of this simple understanding and perception is a connection to a powerful universe and one another.

“Creating Unity: A Centennial Celebration” is open to the public and will remain up all year in the West Gallery for guests to view at the Blanden Memorial Art Museum, 920 Third Ave. S.

For more information please visit www.blanden.org or call 515-573-2316.