Minneapolis Review

Minneapolis—The Minneapolis Institute of Art (Mia) is set to host a distinctive exhibition this September, celebrating the traditional Minnesotan art form known as crop art. Titled “Cream of the Crop: A Minnesota Folk Art Showcase,” the exhibition will be available for viewing from September 6 to September 28, 2025, in Mia’s Rotunda.

The exhibition will feature highlights from the Minnesota State Fair’s crop art competition. It includes two winners of Mia’s new crop art awards for "Best Interpretation of an Artwork" and "Best Interpretation of a Minnesota Landmark, Story, or Figure," along with 12 additional pieces selected by Mia’s curatorial team and museum director Katie Luber.

Marta Shore, Assistant Superintendent of Crop Art and Scarecrow at the Minnesota State Fair, expressed her enthusiasm: “I’m excited to see Mia continue its embrace and celebration of folk art with this exhibition. Crop artists use their considerable talent and creativity to express themselves by using the agricultural product of our state, and we all appreciate seeing a Minnesota art institution recognizing our work.”

Crop art involves crafting intricate designs using seeds, grains, and other plant materials sourced exclusively from Minnesota. Matthew Welch, Mary Ingebrand-Pohlad Deputy Director & Chief Curator at Mia, remarked on this unique form: “Where else but Minnesota can you find masterpieces made from mustard seeds and wild rice? Crop art is clever, meticulous, and unmistakably local."

In addition to showcasing these artworks, Mia will host events such as a hands-on crop art workshop led by Marta Shore and a public conversation exploring folk and institutional art intersections.

The exhibition promises visitors an exploration into detailed artworks and personal stories from artists while offering insight into how crop art has evolved from an agricultural pastime to a recognized creative expression.

For more information about this free exhibition or other upcoming events at Mia, visit www.artsmia.org.