Explore Art in Amana

Art can take a variety of forms but for many, when you mention the word they think of paintings.  In the Amana Colonies, that’s a good place to start as we have several very gifted painters but there is much more.

A native of the Amana Colonies, Gordon Kellenberger is a well known regional artist that works in a style somewhat reminiscent of the famous Iowa artist Grant Wood.  Kellenberger’s pastels are found on display and for sale at Catiri’s Art Oasis in the village of Amana.  Catiri’s also carries paintings and prints from other Midwest artist along with other forms of art.  It is a must stop for anyone interested in art.

Michelle Maring-Miller is an artist from West Amana that works in beautiful watercolors, and displays and sells artwork out of her gallery and studio in West Amana. Many of her works are Amana scenes and most include a small cardinal somewhere in the work.

If you travel to Homestead you’ll find two additional artists.  The Troy Thomas Art Gallery features the work of Troy Thomas and his paintings offer a more modern and abstract approach.  The second artist in Homestead works in copper and metals.  AJ’s Copper Garden features award-winning sculptures for both the home and garden.  Most days you can watch as the artist create this metal art before your eyes.

Photography is another art form that has found a home in the Colonies.  This comes as no surprise as the Amana Colonies have many scenic spots.  Lisa Lammey Fine Arts is located in Amana and has a unique style and process that has made her popular around the country.  Her shop is open during most festivals and by chance, as she travels to art shows around the USA most weekends.

The Amana Arts Guild, located in the former High Amana Church, offers classes in a variety of art forms and also has a small shop that features the artwork of most of our local artist. It includes everything from paintings to knitted mittens and other old Amana art forms that it has helped to keep alive. In addition to scheduled classes, the Arts Guild has opened Gallery on Main in Amana to display and sell artwork created by local artisans, some of whom teach classes at the High Amana location.

Say art in the Amana Colonies and you’ll find it’s just not oil on canvas.