Bethany College Art Department Hosts Exhibit by Local Artist Irene Nielsen

August 6, 2024

LINDSBORG, KAN., August 6, 2024 — Bethany College is pleased to announce an upcoming art exhibit featuring the works of Irene Nielsen, running from August 26 to September 27, 2024, at the Mingenback Art Center on the Bethany College campus. The exhibit is free and open to the public, with gallery hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The artist invites the public to the Gallery for a reception on September 27 at 4:15 p.m.


The featured artist, Irene Nielsen, will present approximately forty canvases in oil, acrylic, and jewelry mixed media. Selected pieces will be available for purchase. Eclectic design and storytelling characterize Nielsen's work, with many pieces reflecting her background in the Pacific Northwest, Lindsborg, and rural Kansas. The show is a tribute to her late brother, A. John Pearson, of Lindsborg, KS.


Nielsen has dedicated her life to painting and hosted the Porcelain Art School in Lindsborg, attracting artists and students nationwide. Now semi-retired, she focuses on painting while teaching online psychology graduate students at Southern New Hampshire University. Nielsen finds inspiration in the intersection of her diverse activities.


"The activity of painting immerses the soul with emotion and reflection. Psychology plays a huge role in storytelling on canvas," said Nielsen. "My happiness comes from the timeless flow of color, form, structure, and ideas. I invite everyone to join the art show and the reception on September 27 to share in the joy and creativity of this event."


"We are thrilled to host Irene Nielsen's exhibit at the Mingenback Art Center," said Rebecca Vega, Art Professor at Bethany College. "Her unique ability to blend psychology and storytelling through her art is truly inspiring. This exhibit not only highlights her exceptional creativity but also celebrates the artistic spirit of our community. We look forward to welcoming everyone to experience her captivating work and join us for a special evening at the reception."



Bethany College, established by Swedish Lutheran immigrants in 1881, is a college of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The mission of Bethany College is to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. At Bethany, students join a community of dedicated educators and caring mentors who walk alongside them as they discover, explore, and navigate the path to their purpose. Bethany College is online at bethanylb.edu and is located in Lindsborg, Kansas, the fine arts and crafts capital of the state.



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