DICKINSON, N.D. (KFYR) – It’s been a big summer for history buffs.
America’s 250th birthday and the opening of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library have brought many people to North Dakota, eager to learn about the 26th president’s time in our state.
The library has also inspired other projects, including a new exhibit at the Southwest Science and Art Center in Dickinson.
Cherie Roshau has been a Theodore Roosevelt fan for years.
“I think I really resonate with him,” the Dickinson artist said.
The 26th president has been a big inspiration in her art.
“This is the first of three. I really enjoyed doing that,” she said, pointing out a painting hanging at the Southwest Science and Art Center.
There are pieces from other North Dakota artists too. The gallery put out a call for any Theodore Roosevelt-inspired art, and they got enough to fill an entire corner of the gallery.
There are pieces created by students at Bismarck’s Roosevelt Elementary, and there are pieces created by experienced, professional artists.
Roshau hopes this little corner of the gallery might inspire others to be more like TR.
“He wasn’t afraid to take chances,” said Roshau.
In much the same way, artists who have their work displayed at the Southwest Science and Art Center also weren’t afraid to take chances.
“This exhibit is all from local artists, whether they consider themselves artists or not,” explained Director Cheyenne Holtzman. “It’s all from community members, and it’s about what their interpretation of freedom is. And it’s been beautiful. “
The pieces are displayed under the theme “From Frontier to Future, America at 250.” Artists range from three years old to over 70.
“This center is helping everybody see that they are artists and that they can create,” said board member Lydia De Jesus.
And these pieces are a fitting tribute to a president who believed in bold, creative living.
The TR exhibit will be on display until Sept. 11.
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