The Reedy Gallery, established through the generosity of Darwin and Geri Reedy, offers eclectic interpretations of nature's beauty, outdoor landscapes and scenes by talented, award-winning artists with roots in Minnesota. Works in oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylic and other media add nature-inspired artistry to engage visitors in exploring the beauty and wonders of the outdoors at the Arboretum.
Subscribe to info on art exhibit openings, Meet the Artist and gallery events from curator Wendy DePaolis at depao008@umn.edu.
Typically, four to five fine art exhibits are presented each year, touching on seasonal themes and explorations. Informal tours are offered weekly by trained volunteer docents and staff. Often, artists talks and painting demonstrations are scheduled in the Great Hall or in the gardens to round out the exhibit. Reedy Gallery exhibits are open year-round during Visitor Center hours and are free with Arboretum admission.
Art in the Reedy Gallery is for sale, with a portion of the proceeds from each sale directly benefitting the Arboretum as well as helping to support the local arts community. Purchases can be made through the Arboretum Gift Store
Current Exhibit: Trees as Sanctuary
August 11 – October 11
The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is an ideal place to connect with nature and renew your spirit. The majestic trees and saplings form the forests where thousands wander each year. In Trees as Sanctuary found in the Reedy Gallery, three accomplished artists- Ashley Dull, Catherine Hearding, and Dan Wiemer - explore ways trees nurture our connection to nature.
In cultures around the world, trees have embodied early views of the universe. Artists often depict roots as representative of the underworld, a trunk embodied the earth and the crown of a tree was associated with the sky.
Trees have always meant more than a part of a landscape as different trees symbolize different elements highlighting the general sense of a painting. For instance, twisted branches add a dramatic, emotional quality that may communicate hardship, resilience or even an intertwining of souls. The oak is celebrated for its power and strength dating back to praise from the ancient Greeks and Romans, while the Pine tree is a favored subject of Chinese artists, closely associated with Confucian austerity and firmness.
For me, trees have always been the most penetrating preachers. I revere them when they live in tribes and families, in forests and groves. And even more revere them when they stand alone – Herman Hesse
Don’t miss this exhibit and the chance to appreciate the talented artists who give reverence to our natural beauties - the trees.
