Feature image: Courtesy of Bill Mitchell.
Submitted
Platteville, WI — Ripple Artspace (formerly Rountree Gallery) invites the public to celebrate its official launch on Friday, May 15, from 4–7 pm, during the opening reception for The Ruralists, a group exhibition curated by artist Mary Bergs of Benton, WI.
Featuring the work of five artists who live and work in rural communities across the Midwest, The Ruralists explores contemporary perspectives on rural life—challenging stereotypes and highlighting the complexity, creativity, and lived experience of place.
“Distinctions between rural and urban are often more about perception than lived experience,” said curator Mary Bergs. “Art and artists exist everywhere, and all creative endeavors deserve recognition and celebration.”
The exhibition includes work by Jaron Childs (Tomahawk, WI), Dodie Logue (Delano, MN), Samuel Johnson (St. Joseph, MN), Bill Mitchell (Lancaster, WI), and Paula Schiller (Spring Green, WI). Working across disciplines including painting, ceramics, drawing, and mixed media, the artists bring varied approaches to shared questions of environment, identity, and connection.
This opening reception marks both the debut of Ripple Artspace and a continuation of the gallery’s longstanding mission to support regional artists and foster community through the arts.
“We’re excited to welcome people into the space for this moment,” said Heidi Dyas-McBeth, Vice President. “It’s a chance to celebrate the artists in this exhibition and the future of the gallery, while staying connected to everything that Rountree Gallery has meant to this community.”
The event is free and open to the public.
About Ripple Artspace (formerly Rountree Gallery)
Ripple Artspace is a nonprofit, volunteer-run contemporary art space in downtown Platteville, Wisconsin. Formerly known as Rountree Gallery, the organization is dedicated to supporting regional artists and building community through exhibitions, programs, and events.
Contact
Bill Mitchell, President & Gallery Director
Ripple Artspace (formerly Rountree Gallery)
120 W. Main Street, Platteville, WI
773.415.8215 | rountreegallery@gmail.com