DCC

RUSSELL–Ad Astra Per Aspera: Paintings by Angie Muller is on exhibition at the Deines Cultural Center June 16 through July 28, 2017.

Muller creates large, heavily textured pieces by layering paint and materials from nature.

Muller says of her work, “I am an artist inspired by the Great American Prairie, drawn to examine earth’s history and its urging for us to journey through life with vigor and blaze a trail. I believe nature teaches us to live transiently, always changing. Like limestone eroding through eons of time, or cottonwoods bursting with color before resting, life moves on, and so do we. Each painting is inspired by my interactions with the earth, sky, water and animals.

“From my studio on this rugged grassland, I create one-of-a-kind pieces that have an abiding connection to the earth. Paintings incorporate materials carefully selected from my prairie wanderings, including stone, found bark, plant ash, soil or native grass. I fold these elements into paint or use them to make textural symbols and markings. This results in truly unique pieces that share nature’s story of strength and growth.

‘I believe the Kansas motto – Ad Astra per Aspera – aptly describes the prairie mentality, to the stars through difficulties. It’s that notion that while we may struggle from time to time to find our footing in life, the path forward makes us stronger.”

Join us for the opening reception from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, June 16. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. The Deines Cultural Center is located at 820 North Main Street in Russell.

Call (785) 483-3742 for information.