The city of Dubuque has once again elevated its cultural landscape with the unveiling of the latest “Art on the River” public art exhibition, inviting residents and visitors alike to explore the profound connection between artistic expression and holistic well-being. This eagerly anticipated annual event aims to transcend mere visual appeal, fostering a deeper engagement with the transformative power of art in daily life and community development.
Under the compelling 2025-2026 theme, “Flow of Wellness,” this year’s sculpture exhibition encourages a contemplative journey into how art intrinsically contributes to both personal and collective health. Organizers specifically designed the collection to highlight themes of health, healing, and overall wellness, prompting onlookers to consider the enduring impact of creative endeavors on mental, physical, and spiritual states.
A core tenet of the “Flow of Wellness” theme is the celebration of nature’s inherent restorative qualities, particularly drawing inspiration from the Mississippi River itself. The committee’s vision emphasized the healing power of movement and the soothing effects derived from elements like light, sound, and color, encouraging artists to craft pieces that echo the river’s natural flow and rhythm, thereby allowing attendees to experience a calming presence.
The public is invited to experience these captivating installations firsthand at the free reception taking place today at the Grand River Center, located at 500 Bell St., from 5 to 7 p.m. Beyond merely viewing the public art, the event offers interactive experiences, including an engaging drum circle facilitated by Centrally Rooted, invigorating yoga sessions provided by B-1 Yoga, and live entertainment, ensuring a dynamic opening for the exhibition.
The eleven new sculptures featured in this 19th annual temporary public art show were meticulously chosen by a distinguished community jury panel. This panel, recognized for its expertise in arts and community development, reviewed a competitive pool of 61 applications from 40 artists representing 11 states across the U.S., as well as international participants from Germany and India, underscoring the exhibition’s broad appeal and artistic diversity.
Esteemed members of the jury included Jessica Modica, executive director of the Freeport (Ill.) Art Museum; Dubuque-based visual artist Tamsie Ringler; and Sarah Cassella, an associate professor of neuroscience at Loras College in Dubuque Iowa, ensuring a well-rounded and discerning selection process. Their collective insight ensured that the chosen artworks aligned seamlessly with the exhibition’s ambitious wellness theme and artistic merit.
Spanning the scenic stretch of the Mississippi Riverwalk in the Port of Dubuque, these unique artworks will remain on display for an extended period, captivating audiences through July 2026. This extended viewing period allows ample opportunity for both local residents and tourists to immerse themselves in the enriching experience of the Art on the River series at their leisure.
Furthermore, all sculptures showcased in the “Art on the River” exhibition are available for purchase, offering a unique opportunity for individuals to acquire a piece of this culturally significant display. A portion of all artwork sales is directly reinvested into sustaining and growing the “Art on the River” program, which is funded through the city’s general operating budget, ensuring the longevity and continued success of this beloved initiative that promotes wellness through art.
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