Artist:

Jim & Sue Heemstra

Site:

Whiterock Conservancy, Coon Rapids, IA

The Heemstra’s Markers & Deep Roots installation features a series of five glazed ceramic sculptures placed along the Steve Garst Trail and town trail at Whiterock Conservancy. Positioned within the prairie landscape, the works act as markers for you to find as you enjoy the trail. Inspired by the act of mark-making, the sculptures echo our human impulse to leave a trace behind.

Like marks made on paper or clay, these forms become gestures within the landscape. Set among deep prairie roots and natural surroundings, the brightly stacked forms coexist within the ever changing environment.

Sue Heemstra

Clay is my preferred medium these days, but I began with drawing and painting as do most art students.  Drawing is still the beginning of most of my work.  I’ve made many paintings, but had a desire to expand into three dimensions.  I took classes in fiber art at the Des Moines Art Center and at Drake University with Priscilla Sage. Eventually I took classes at RDG Dahlquist studios where I realized the infinite possibilities in clay. Today that is where I linger, exploring hand  building, carving, and again painting with glaze and underglaze. 

Heemstra Studio Instagram

Jim Heemsta

I am a photographer turned ceramic artist. I fell in love with art in college as a fine arts major studying printmaking.  While in college I worked as a photojournalist and started a 50 year career as a photographer.  I studied photography with Ansel Adams in Yosemite, taught photography at Drake University, and have been published in many national and international magazines. Now as a ceramic artist, I find that  I enjoy the physical connection with clay, and can lose myself in carving or painting the bisque surface.