Wax, Wire, Wood and Clay

June 11-July 28, 2025

Birds nest artwork
Birch tree artwork
Blue and gold clay vase
Wire seeds

Step into a world where the raw beauty of nature meets the transformative power of the artist's hand. Wax, Wire, Wood and Clay is a dynamic art show that brings together these four distinct materials from four distinct artists: Lynne Sarnoff-Christensen, Jodi Reeb, Jim Gallop and Cindy Syme.

Each piece in the show invites viewers to observe, and engage with the elemental forces of creativity, challenging perceptions of what materials can communicate. Whether it's the soft elegance of an encaustic wax painting or the sharp angles of a wire form, this exhibition highlights the innovative ways artists can manipulate the natural world to create profound visual narratives.

Cost: Included with general daily admission, which is free for members and ages 15 and younger and $20-$25 for non-members ages 16 and older. Indigenous peoples receive waived general daily admission to the Arboretum when making a reservation by calling 612-301-6775.

Artist Meet & Greet 
Join us for a Meet and Greet with Artists to celebrate this celebration of artistry on Sunday, June 29 from noon-2 p.m.

About the Artists

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About the Artists

Wax | Lynne Sarnoff-Christensen

Lynne Sarnoff-Christensen will be presenting The Art of the Nest. Encaustic paintings representing the beautifully woven nests found in her vines and trees come Autumn. Some works are highlighted by photography infused into the paintings while others are textural, portraying and representing the nests. The nests themselves are works of art. This is a tribute to the work and beauty created by our fine feathered friends.

Wire | Jodi Reeb

Jodi Reeb will be contributing her amazing wall sculptures depicting golden seed pods and boulders. Her wire sculptures are a beautiful balance of subject and space, allowing each piece to create shadows on the walls. Her focus on the sculptures and the shadows created, devise depth and movement allowing the sculptures to come alive.

Wood | Jim Gallop

Jim Gallop has taken wood turning to a new level. Using wood burls such as Black Cherry, Mesquite and Birch bark, he submerges the wood Into resin, casts the burls under pressure and turns on the lathe. They are stunning vessels of art that create bursts of unexpected color and movement. They are captivating from every perspective.

Clay | Cindy Syme

Cindy Syme’s passion for carving clay is highlighted in her series of carved trees on porcelain tiles. Her attention to fine detail is apparent and results in beautiful Tree Portraits that speak to the soul. Using porcelain as a foundation, underglaze is applied and then carved away with purposeful attention to positive and negative illustration. All are framed to enhance the presentation.