Chew on This!

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at our recent exhibition, “Grant Wood: Seriously Silly.” In this special program, Curator Tara Templeman shares the creative journey behind bringing this playful and thought-provoking exhibit to life.

Best known for his iconic painting American Gothic, Grant Wood is often associated with stoic faces and rural realism. But there was much more to him than meets the eye. In this engaging talk, Tara explores Wood’s mischievous humor, visual puns, and subtle satire—revealing the wit woven throughout his work.

Go beyond the gallery walls as Tara discusses curatorial choices, surprising discoveries, and fascinating stories that didn’t make it into the exhibit text. Learn what was left out, why certain pieces were included, and how the exhibition narrative came together.

Whether you’ve already visited “Grant Wood: Seriously Silly” or are simply curious about the man behind the masterpieces, this program offers fresh insight into Wood’s seriously silly side—and the art of exhibition-making itself.