Clinton Community College is hosting a new art exhibit in the Library Art Gallery from June through August. The exhibit features the artwork of freelance artist Dee Ketelsen, a proud Clinton Community College graduate.
Her pieces vary from black and white to colorful. The exhibit includes paintings and multidimensional sculptures. The community is invited to visit the art gallery Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. CCC, one of the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, will host an artist reception on Wednesday, July 9 from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. at the college, 1000 Lincoln Blvd., Clinton.
Ketelsen is excited to display her work at her alma mater sharing, “Many of the opportunities that set me on this path started in these halls. I hope you enjoy my work and are inspired to see where life can take you.” CCC President Dr. Brian Kelly commented, “It's great to see our alumni be able to use the skills they learn here to create unique and engaging art. Dee's experience in travel is definitely reflected in her beautiful work.
In her artist statement, Dee writes, “My journey began in 2017 while working as a freelance artist, specializing in custom art and jewelry pieces. A pivotal moment happened when a client came to me with a touching request: she wanted the ashes of a beloved pet in a necklace. I was taken aback. I had never thought about incorporating ashes into any of my work before. After extensive research and some deep introspection, I embraced the challenge.”
This exhibition also features a collection of pieces born purely from Ketelsen’s passion for art and the natural world. These works are reflections of her artistic journey and are deeply inspired by the diverse landscapes and experiences encountered during adventures across the United States as a traveling artist. Living full-time on the road gives Ketelsen the unique opportunity to see the diverse wonders of the U.S., meet clients in person where they live, and allows her to exhibit her work in galleries all across the country.
For more information, contact Clinton Community College, 563-244-7001.
