Land of Legends

This body of work was made during a residency hosted by West Acres Mall in Fargo, ND. It was a full self-guided opportunity to make work that reflected on the region, its history and my place within it all.

Growing up as an artist in rural North Dakota is a unique experience.

Windswept, 48 × 30 inches, Oil paint on canvas

During my 8 week long residency in an empty storefront in West Acres Mall, I spent my time looking at my home state with a fresh perspective. I set aside my personal relationship with this place and my upbringing, and I opened myself up to the wonder this region has to offer.

I am so glad I did. North Dakota has a magic like no other place in this world. In the journey that brought me to that conclusion, I was able to create 6 paintings that helped me redefine how I related to my past, my ancestry, and my homeland - a land of legends.