Currently on Display: Betsy Wesselhoft "Awaken Spring"

Dewy Threads - 17"x17"

Taking Turns - 17"x20"

Mesmerizing Mist - 17"x17"

Currently on display for May at the River Valley Bank in Ironwood, MI: Betsy Wesselhoft.

(hours: M-F 8 to 5, Sat. 9 to 12, closed Sun.)

This show, entitled “Awaken Spring” includes 13 framed, matted photographs taken by Betsy Wesselhoft. The vast majority of the photos were taken locally, and all are submitted as a celebration of spring!

Betsy Wesselhoft began enjoying photography shortly after she moved to the Northwoods in 1978. “There was so much to photograph and appreciate in the natural world around us, and it helped me to embrace the area as my new home.”

She took a class at GCC taught by her neighbor, Jerry Maki, and enjoyed learning how to develop her own photos and more about the technical aspects of shooting a good picture. During the busy years of working full time and raising children, her hobby took a back seat to her other priorities.

In 2006, she had the opportunity to work with a professional from Cold Snap Photography from Two Harbors, MN. This reignited her interest in photography and she has been honing her artistic eye with intentionality since then.

Ray and Mickey Mickevicius of Two Hawks Photography in Wausau have provided ongoing inspiration and support to her efforts. Locally, Cindy Franck, Janelle Edwards and Phil Kucera are key mentors.

Betsy won “Best of Show” in 2009 at the Range Art Association’s annual art fair held in Bessemer. Her submission, entitled “Sweet Baby James” was taken of her grandson when he was 9 days old.

A newcomer to the Range Art Association, Betsy is enjoying being part of the group. “It is gratifying to meet with others who enjoy appreciating nature and bringing it to a new form through their creative talents” she states. She encourages other artists to consider joining this well-established Rangeland organization.

Betsy is a retired Human Services provider and administrator who resides with her husband, Steve, in Ironwood. Steve is the Dean of Students at Gogebic Community College, and will be retiring next month. They have two adult children, Michael and Leanne. Michael resides in San Diego, CA and Leanne resides in Madison, WI.