Our concentration of 90 artists at the Hot Shops has forged a truly unique arts organization, and the work they do enhances the vibrant arts community in Greater Omaha. Check out the impact some of our resident artists have been making recently!
Congratulations to Terry Koopman on his acceptance into the PACE New Master’s exhibit. ‘New Masters’ features feature up to 50 professional photographers depicting City/Street, Conceptual/Open Theme, Landscape/Nature, People, Photojournalism, or Still Life. On display May 24th – September 28th, 2024, at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
George Garret’s painting, “Volcanic Flame,” from the Frida y Diego Community Art Show was one of several selected out of 100 pieces to be part of a special showcase May 1st through 5th at The Orpheum Theater. This show was produced in collaboration with Opera Omaha, Joslyn Castle, Wicked Raven productions and The Castle and Cathedral Creative District to create engagement and community awareness for their upcoming production of El último sueño de Frida y Diego (The Last Dream of Frida and Diego), a new opera by Gabriela Lena Frank and Nilo Cruz.
Resident artist, Paula Wallace is featured in the Fred Simon Gallery exhibit “Near and Far” along with artist Gretchen Peters from Gering. This exhibition includes work that examines nature from different perspectives – as through a magnifying glass or from a scenic overlook. On display April 12 – June 5, 2024.
The Hot Shops was honored to participate in Live on Nebraska’s Gift of Live Butterfly Project, helping to bring awareness to the importance of organ donation.
Matthew Shrader, glassblower, and his daughter Amalia worked together on one butterfly. “My daughter and I created this piece knowing the importance of doing things collaboratively and when to ask for help. We feel that the gift of organ donation is such an important example of how relying on others or them relying on you can help you feel whole. The blown glass heart in the center of the butterfly represents just how strong but also fragile our bodies can be.”
Rowena Cage conceptualized and helped lead a second butterfly that was a journey of Art meeting Heart! The “Hearts & Hands” Butterfly wove a tapestry of hope, collaboration, and shared dreams. Every detail is a testament to what we can achieve together, with the community coming together to paint this masterpiece of love and life. Over 200 visitors to the Hot Shops, including children and adults, contributed to this project, a symbol of unity, life, and creativity! This community-created butterfly was also voted the staff favorite for the initiative!
