The Heartland Artists Gallery is pleased to once again collaborate with and host the works of another visual arts organization in the Michiana area.  Through the month of April, the watercolor paintings of the St. Joseph Valley Watercolor Society will be on display in an exhibit titled, “Heart of the Art”.  Brilliantly colored landscapes, serene still lifes, and complex abstracts – all awash in the light-filled medium – demonstrate the talents of the region’s premier watercolor painters. 

The watercolor organization’s annual exhibit of over 30 pieces was juried by local artist and retired John Glenn art teacher, John E. Thomas.  Mr. Thomas states, “I was honored to have the privilege of judging the “Art of the Heart” show. The work was consistently of a professional level… Overall I would say this show was successful in bringing out the outstanding talent of the artist members of the St. Joe Valley Watercolor Society.”  

Seven award winners were recognized for their outstanding technical and creative works at the opening reception on Sunday, April 3rd.  Martha Winenger, Millie Steveken, Nancy Turner, and Nancy Arsenovic all received merit awards. Third Place was awarded to Millie Stevekin, Second Place was awarded to Gina Mitchell, and First Place was awarded to Nancy Turner.  The public is welcome to view the works at the Heartland Artists Gallery through Saturday, April 30th during the gallery’s open hours.  More information about the St. Joe Valley Watercolor Society can be found stjoevalleywatercolor.com or our Facebook page:  facebook.com/StJoeValleyWatercolorSociety

In addition to the watercolor exhibit, ten Heartland artists have created a variety of handmade jewelry pieces for their first annual jewelry pop-up.  Mixed metals, precious gemstones, glass, resin, recycled vintage creations, and even epoxy sculpture make up a diverse, creative collection sure to meet the unique styles of the gallery’s visitors.  Heartland Artists President, Anna Kietzman, states, “In addition to our immensely talented fine artists, we have a wonderful group of jewelry designers and artists who create unique, striking, boundary-pushing pieces that are sure to get noticed.  Like all art, jewelry is very personal.  It can be sentimental, functional, and very often a conversation piece.  Our artists have created pieces that are just that.  I’d also like to remind everyone that jewelry makes the most unique gift – just in time for Mother’s Day!”  The jewelry pop-up will take place through May 28th and new pieces will be added regularly.  

The Heartland Artists are also gearing up for their annual Small Wonders juried exhibit in May and the ARTS in the Street Festival on July 30th.  Small Wonders submission information can be found on the gallery’s website, or by calling or stopping by the gallery.  Submissions are due April 23rd and the exhibit opens May 3rd.  

The 8th Annual ARTS in the Street Festival will take place on Saturday, July 30th!  Applications for artists’ booths, food vendors, and nonprofits are now available on the website or by calling the gallery.  If you or your business would like to support local art and artists as a sponsor or volunteer, please contact Anna Kietzman at 574-316-0264 or visit the gallery’s website for more information.


The Heartland Artists Gallery’s mission is to support area artists and to bring and to teach the arts to our community. Our not-for-profit, member-run Gallery gives area artists a venue to show and sell their artwork.  Activities are made possible in part by the Community Foundation of St. Joseph County and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts. Visit www.heartlandartgallery.com and find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.  For more information contact the Gallery at 574-936-9515.  The Gallery is located at 101 N. Michigan Street in downtown Plymouth and hours of operation are Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 4pm.

Caption 1:  Nancy Arsenovic’s “Joy Birds” received a Merit Award at the St. Joe Valley Watercolor Society’s Exhibit at the Heartland Artists Gallery.
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