Exhibition Opening Reception: Graven Image. Aaron Spangler

Beginning at 5 pm, artist, Aaron Spangler will speak about his work. The gallery talk and reception, including hors d’oeuvres and beverages, are free and open to the public. Parking is available, at no charge, in front of the Museum.

Graven Image features the work of artist Aaron Spangler who has garnered regional and national recognition for championing and critiquing the ethos of rural life. Born and raised in Park Rapids, Minnesota much of Spangler’s work showcased in the exhibition was conceived and executed from his studio set deep in the Minnesota woods near his hometown. Graven Image will highlight the sculptor’s versatility by including his large-scale woodblock prints, his monumental tapestries produced in collaboration with weaver Bruce Engebretson, as well as his freestanding carved and painted wood sculptures and bas-relief tableaux. The works on view celebrate Spangler’s role as the consummate craftsman and engaged collaborator. In addition to partnering with weaver Engebretson on weavings such as Hell Awaits (2025), the artist has worked closely with Cole Rogers and his team at the Highpoint Center for Printmaking in Minneapolis to produce ambitiously scaled and technically challenging woodblock prints including Fence Lines (2014) and Separatist (2014).