Jui Mhatre – Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art

Author: Jui Mhatre

Now open!

Posted on September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Rural America
Open through September 26, 2026

Rural communities across America face unique hardships, such as limited access to healthcare, education, and broadband services. Yet they also possess strengths, such as close-knit social networks, natural resources, and cultural traditions that contribute to their resilience and character.

The artworks in this exhibition highlight the challenges rural communities have faced and the unique qualities that have sustained them. The works offer a lens through which to consider the struggles and assets of today’s rural communities. Through prints, drawings, and paintings, artists explore themes such as the decline of small farms, school consolidation, grocery store closures, and the fading of local journalism. These are balanced by depictions of rural vitality such as tourism, community events, local cooperatives, faith institutions, and efforts in historic preservation.

A view of the "Rural America" exhibition at the Beach Museum of Art

Featured works in the exhibition include Brush Fire by Ernest William Watson, Rural School in Moonlight by Mary Huntoon, Meeting House by Thomas Hart Benton, Destruction of the Family Farm by Brian Maxwell, Fourth Estate by Jeremiah Ariaz, and Youth Helps Rebuild a World by John Steuart Curry.

The exhibition will be in two parts, aligning with the fall and spring semesters of the 2025-2026 academic year.

Special feature:
Share your stories of rural communities or thoughts about the works in the exhibition in the comments book. We would love to know!

Comment book for visitors in the "Rural America" exhibition at the Beach Museum of Art.

Related events
Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Let’s Talk Local Newspapers with Photographer Jeremiah Ariaz
Thurs., Oct. 2, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

Hungry Heartland: Exploring Food Deserts in the Breadbasket
Thurs., April 16, 2026, 5:30-7 p.m.
Conversation with K-State Faculty and Students in the art department, A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication, and social transformation studies department.

Major Sponsor: Greater Manhattan Community Foundation’s Lincoln & Dorothy Deihl Community Grants Program
Sustaining Sponsors: Dan and Beth Bird
Contributing Sponsor: The Beach–Edwards Family Foundation

Double Take: Gallery Tour of Select Artworks

Posted on September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Thurs., Sept. 25, 2025 | 5:30-6 p.m. | Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Theme: Color My World
Use of color is a common and observable way artists infuse meaning or evoke emotion in their work. From mastery of technique to societal commentary learn how to engage art through one of its primary elements, color.

Double Take is a 30-minute program hosted by Museum Outreach Specialist Nate McClendon that invites participants to take a deeper look at selected artworks on display. Through conversations with curators, artists, and museum staff, the program explores the stories, intentions, and societal themes behind the art and exhibitions. Gain insight into artistic techniques, philosophies, and the role of art in everyday life, while also having the opportunity to anonymously share and observe real-time reactions to the works.

Join us throughout the year as we discover how to use the museum, engage with art, and uncover why art matters.

Gallery discussion with participants Double Take gallery conversation

Tim Forcade, Radiant Chorus, 2019, inkjet print on paper mounted on board, 61 x 37 x 2 1/2 in., Kansas State University, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, gift of Don Lambert, 2023.10
Tim Forcade, Radiant Chorus, 2019, inkjet print on paper mounted on board, 61 x 37 x 2 1/2 in., gift of Don Lambert, 2023.10. Currently on view

Let’s Talk Local Newspapers with Jeremiah Ariaz

Posted on September 24, 2025September 26, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Thurs., Oct. 2, 2025 | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Photographer Jeremiah Ariaz will discuss his Fourth Estate series, which explores the vital role of small-town newspapers in Kansas. The project highlights how these publications help build community and support democratic systems, while also documenting an industry in decline. Newspapers are closing across the country at an average rate of two per week. The conversation will be led by Curator Elizabeth Seaton.

Photo of Jeremiah Ariaz
Jeremiah Ariaz

This program is offered in conjunction with the exhibition Rural America, open Sept. 2, 2025 – Sept. 26, 2026.

A view of the "Fourth Estate" works by artist Jeremiah Ariaz, in the "Rural America" exhibition at the Beach Museum of Art.
A view of the Fourth Estate works by Jeremiah Ariaz, on display in the “Rural America” exhibition at the Beach Museum of Art.

"Rural America" exhibition promotional image.

Artist Talk: Mark Cowardin

Posted on September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Thurs., Oct. 9, 2025 | 5:30-6:30 PM | Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Photo of artist Mark Cowardin
Mark Cowardin

Join Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition artist Mark Cowardin for a talk exploring his sculptural practice, which examines the delicate balance between human ambition and environmental consequence. Known for intricate, hand-built forms that blend natural and industrial materials, Cowardin invites viewers to consider their place in the world’s shifting ecosystems.

A view of the "Kansas Triennial 25/26" exhibition at the Beach Museum of Art.
A view of the works by Mark Cowardin in the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition.

"Kansas Triennial 25/26" title

Beach Ball: a FUNdraiser for the Beach Museum of Art

Posted on September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

BEACH BALL | Fri., Oct. 17, 2025 | 6:30-10 p.m. | 21+ event | ~Costumes strongly encouraged~

Click here to purchase tickets now!

The Beach Ball is back—and more unhinged than ever. A surreal celebration of art, imagination, and whimsy. A tad taboo, delightfully off-kilter, and rather eccentric… darling, it’s the Beach Ball. The red carpet awaits your grand entrance—however dramatic, mysterious, or absurd you wish.

Sip signature drinks from MHK Caravan Co., savor decadent bites from Nico’s Little Italy, and dance deep into the night with DJ N.A. BeerWolf. A silent auction will tempt. A costume contest will crown.

Interpret the dress code however your imagination dares. If it bends reality, suggests a metaphor, or wandered in from a dream—you’re doing it right.

It’s not a gala. It’s a happening. Wear something inspired. Bring someone delightful and leave logic at the door.

Beach Ball: A fundraiser for the Beach Museum of Art

Artwork: Patricia DuBose Duncan, Self Portrait with Devil Mask, 1998.144 (pigmented for promotional purposes)

Double Take: Gallery Tour of Select Artworks

Posted on September 24, 2025September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Thurs., Oct. 23, 2025 | 5:30-6 p.m. | Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Theme: Language as Icon
Art creates a spotlight, urging the viewer to consider something new or to simply look deeper. Because language is symbolic, common in our everyday experience, artists can use words to elicit preconceived understandings and emotions to bring forth a new perspective.

Join us throughout the year as we discover how to use the museum, engage with art, and uncover why art matters.

"There is no Kansas" text created with ceramic tiles: artwork by Poppy DeltaDawn, on view in the "Kansas Triennial 25/26" exhibition.
Poppy DeltaDawn, There is no Kansas, on view in the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition

"Dear Ann, Love" work by Ann Resnick showing hand written greetings like "Miss you, David," "much love, Karen" and others. On view in the "Kansas Triennial 25/26" at the Beach Museum of Art.
Ann Resnick, Dear Ann, Love, on view in the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition

Current Exhibitions

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Click here to view current Virtual Exhibitions

Gallery Exhibitions:

Rural America
September 2, 2025 – September 26, 2026

"Rural America" exhibition promotional image.

Kansas Triennial 25/26
August 5, 2025 – May 31, 2026

In Bloom
February 25–November 15, 2025

In Bloom exhibition

2025 K-State Common Work of Art

Carol Pylant, "No Masters," 1988.6
Carol Pylant, No Masters, 1986, oil on panel, 30 1/2 x 26 7/8 in., 1988.6

Collection Galleries
Orval Hempler Gallery | John F. Helm Gallery | Mary Holton Seaton Gallery East | Mary Holton Seaton Gallery West | Stolzer Family Foundation Outdoor Gallery
Featured works are curated from the 12,000+ objects in the museum’s collection. Come visit the galleries and make discoveries that matter to you! Admission and parking are always free.

Art Classes

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

The Museum hosts a variety of classes and workshops throughout the year for all ages! For more information on any of these programs, please contact the Education team at bmaeducation@ksu.edu or call 785-532-7718.

ARTSmart Thursdays
Time/ages: 10-11 a.m. (ages 2-5) and 4:30-5:30 p.m. (PreK-5th grade)
All classes include a looking activity in the galleries and an art-making project inspired by the gallery tour. Preschool morning classes include a story or movement activity and emphasize introductory art concepts. After school classes are designed for elementary students.
Upcoming class:
October 9, Unlikely Objects: The Art of Seeing

Workshop at the Beach Museum of Art

Homeschool Tuesdays
Time/ages: 1-2:30 p.m. (all ages)
Homeschool Tuesdays take place on the first Tuesday of each month, offering families a chance to explore the exhibitions and the collection with integrated curriculum. These tours, designed for students from kindergarten and up, include a hands-on art project to enhance the experience.
Upcoming class:
October 7, Unlikely Objects: The Art of Seeing

Family workshop at the Beach Museum of Art

Cost for each class above is $5 per child. Friends of the Beach Museum of Art and Military/BlueStar discount $2.50. Reservations required: call 785-532-7718 or email bmaeducation@ksu.edu. Pay with cash or check. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Special price for Military Families: In conjunction with the Blue Star Museum program, the Beach Museum of Art offers Military Families half price on all workshops and classes!

Friends of the Beach Museum of Art members receive half price discount with membership card. Please click here to join the Friends of the Beach.

Click here to view all Fall 2025 Art Classes and Family Programs

Let’s Connect!

Posted on September 23, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Visit us online at beach.k-state.edu

Send email to beachart@k-state.edu

Join the museum’s e-news list to stay up to date on everything at the museum.

Check out The Beach Blog for behind-the-scenes information, event info, and guest posts.

Follow us on Instagram | Follow us on Facebook

Subscribe to the museum’s YouTube channel to watch videos of art, artists and special programs.

Join the Beach Buddies Facebook Group to enjoy cool art, fun activities and resources for children, families and educators.

Elizabeth Layton, Untitled (business business business, you gotta have art), 1991, Kansas State University, Marianna Kistler Beach Museum of Art, 1998.222

New on View!

Posted on August 27, 2025August 27, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Kansas Triennial 25/26
August 5, 2025–May 31, 2026

The Kansas Triennial marks an exciting new chapter for the Beach Museum of Art. As a recurring exhibition series focused on contemporary artists working within the state, the Triennial is both a celebration and an inquiry: into what it means to make art in Kansas today, and how those expressions resonate far beyond state lines.

The inaugural exhibition in fall 2025 brings together work by Mona Cliff, Mark Cowardin, Poppy DeltaDawn, and Ann Resnick. These artists reflect a wide range of materials, disciplines, and lived experiences.

A view of the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition

“This exhibition is about listening closely to the artists working in Kansas right now,” says museum director and triennial curator, Kent Michael Smith. “There’s no imposed theme—just a commitment to trust artists, to honor their urgency and insight, and to recognize them as tellers of truth in a time and place where that can feel scarce.”

Each artist brings a distinct voice. Mona Cliff, based in Lawrence, merges traditional Indigenous beadwork with contemporary abstraction in vibrant wall hangings rooted in heritage and ecological awareness. Mark Cowardin, also of Lawrence, navigates themes of consumption, sacredness, and interconnected systems, often incorporating functional elements like ladders and lighting to evoke both utility and metaphor. Poppy DeltaDawn’s conceptual textile works use digital weaving and layering to examine bodily autonomy and identity with visual and emotional precision. Wichita artist Ann Resnick offers deeply personal works rendered through pyrography and monoprinting—gestures of mourning, memory, and quiet persistence.

A view of the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition

As a triennial event, this exhibition series will grow over time. It offers an evolving platform for discovering and reflecting on the most vital artistic voices in Kansas. We look forward to welcoming audiences into this ongoing conversation, one that we hope fosters connection, dialogue, and deeper engagement with the art of our time.

A view of the Kansas Triennial 25/26 exhibition

Major Sponsors: Friends of the Beach Museum of Art, Greater Manhattan Community Foundation’s Lincoln & Dorothy Deihl Community Grants Program, Weary Family Foundation
Contributing Sponsors: Dick and Gloria Delich Anderson, Mike and Dee Michaelis
Media Sponsor:

Related events
At the Beach Museum of Art
Free and open to all

Fall 2025 Exhibition Opening Reception
Thurs., Sept. 11, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
All Triennial artists will be present as special guests

Artist Talk: Mark Cowardin
Thurs., Oct. 9, 2025, 5 p.m.

Artist Talk: Poppy DeltaDawn
Thurs., March 12, 2026, 5:30 p.m.

Artist Talk: Mona Cliff
Thurs., April 2, 2026, 5:30 p.m.

Opening soon!

Posted on August 27, 2025August 27, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Rural America
September 2, 2025 – September 26, 2026

Works from the museum’s collection depict life in rural America, highlighting both the challenges rural communities face as well as the unique qualities that sustain them. These primarily historical images offer a lens through which to consider the struggles and strengths of today’s rural communities. The exhibition will be in two parts.

Related events
Beach Museum of Art | Free and open to the public

Let’s Talk Local Newspapers with Photographer Jeremiah Ariaz
Thurs., Oct. 2, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

Hungry Heartland: Exploring Food Deserts in the Breadbasket
Thurs., April 16, 2026, 5:30-7 p.m.
Conversation with K-State faculty and students in the art department, A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication, and social transformation studies department.

"Rural America" exhibition image

Fall 2025 Exhibition Opening

Posted on August 27, 2025August 27, 2025 by Jui Mhatre

Kansas Triennial 25/26, August 5, 2025 – May 31, 2026

"Until the Sun Moves," by Mark Cowardin Mark Cowardin, Until the Sun Moves, 2023, ladders, 2x4s, hardware, lights & electrical components, 96 x 132 x 65 in. Image courtesy of the artist

Rural America, September 2, 2025 – August 1, 2026

"Meeting House," by Thomas Hart Benton, 1954.1 Thomas Hart Benton, Meeting House, 1942, egg tempera and opaque watercolor on paper, 18 3/4 x 25 7/8 in., 1954.1