Minnesota is the best state to live in as an artist!

Yesterday, I learned that the Minnesota State Arts Board (MSAB) awarded me a FY2024 Creative Support for Individuals Grant for $10,000. I am especially grateful for the support.

I look forward to engaging with county fairs across greater Minnesota through agricultural photography exhibitions, storytelling experiences, and tintype demonstrations. Each time I photograph at county fairs, my project continues to grow and evolve, largely because of the interactions I have with the subjects of my photos and participants that attend my workshops and exhibitions.

This grant will allow me to grow as an artist and teacher of art in two ways:

First, the grant will increase awareness and visibility of my work, but will also shine a light on the life and work of people in the Minnesota. I look forward to deepening my on-going relationships with the greater Minnesota communities I’ve been working with since 2015. Meeting new people in these communities allows for genuine exchanges between me and my subjects as we collaborate together to create photographs reflecting their lived reality.

Secondly, by sharing my enthusiasm for agricultural photography, I will engage and hopefully inspire the next generation of photographers. Photography is one of the most popular activities in 4-H county fairs as measured by exhibitor participation. Many 4-H leaders encourage me to share tips and my journey in becoming an artist.

While the number of retirement-age farmers increases in Minnesota, census data show the number of new farmers is declining. This concerns me, raising issues associated with food source / agricultural production issues. I wish to elevate this mindset, showcasing efforts in the best possible light, and offer an opportunity for reflection, respect and deeper understanding of an endangered way of life.