Mary Swander will read dramatic monologues centered around Grant Wood’s painting “The Appraisal,” bringing the characters and situation to life. Swander will enter into the heads of both women in the painting, creating a dialogue between the urban and the rural divide in our culture. Swander will explore the development and change in the poultry industry from the 1930s through the present.  She will base her work on research on the agricultural times and context of the Wood painting and interviews of farmers—from those involved in poultry raised in CAFOs to the return of backyard chickens.

Following Mary Swander’s presentation, Dr. Randy Lengeling, Grant Wood collector and scholar will give a talk on the influences of Grant Wood’s work in pastel artist Ellen Wagener’s work. Wagener’s exhibition: “Ellen Wagener: No Ordinary Moments” is on exhibition from August 13-November 6, 2016.