August 2026:
A River Runs Through It
A River Runs Through It
Photography of David Wheaton
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
This exhibit offers examples of some of the river’s many uses and moods. The collection of images from which the exhibit is drawn has been shared with Fort Snelling State Park, the Friends of the Mississippi River (the local advocacy group for the river) and some relevant Macalester faculty and staff.
July 2026:
National Izaak Walton Show
2026 National Convention
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
The Kouba Gallery is proud to present the Izaak Walton League of America 2026 National Art Exhibit featuring 40 artists that capture the beauty of nature in creative and innovative ways. This inaugural show highlights the talents of renown and emerging artists from across the country that are inspired by the beauty of our world. From the tiniest details to the expanse of the sky, this exhibit enthralls and captivates with the power and majesty of Mother Nature!
The 2026 National Art Show was on display at the Kouba Gallery from July 6 – July 30 with a special 3-day pop-up exhibition at the Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Hilton in the Riverside Room in conjunction with the 2026 Izaak Walton League National Convention July 16 – 18.
June 2026:
Mní Wičóni (Water is Life)
Photography of John Kellen
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
Mní Sota Makhóčhe (Land Where Waters Reflect the Sky) or Minnesota as we settler colonialist descendants call this place our home, has for thousands of years been inhabited by people who revered their connection to place as their mother or grandmother- Iná Makhá (Mother Earth) or Uņčí Makhá (Grandmother Earth.) Dakota consider all living things relatives- Mitákuye Owáśiņ- (all my relatives, or we are all related) including not just human beings, yet the winged relatives and four-legged relatives. Mutual respect for each other is an integral part of indigenous worldview.
May 2026:
Between Release & Capture
Mushroom Spores as Digital Art by Lewis Leung
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
Lewis Leung was trained as a designer in Hong Kong, and later further his studies in communication art and graduated with an advertising degree from the University of Minnesota in early 90s. He has been a graphic designer, artist, and illustrator for 40 years. The use of mushroom spores as a medium is rarely practiced in the art world— most people have never heard of it! The result of adding organic materials, such as roots, leaves, and other items from nature has added depth to his art. The captivating forms, patterns, and deliberate digital color twist on spore collages have transformed the art into thought-provoking pieces, which often create echoes in one’s soul. In essence, it is far more than just the pleasing appearance of mushroom art.
April 2026:
Beauty Through My Lens
Photography of Kristy Johnson
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
My passion for photography began when I was a child spending time with my grandfather. I now use my lens to capture the unique landscapes, natural light, and details of the seasons here in Minnesota. I specialize in portrait and real estate photography, and strive to create works that are engaging and visually striking. My skills have shaped and evolved my personal style as an author and outdoor enthusiast. Winter is one of my favorite times to take pictures – I am able to take it all in while capturing a moment in time with my camera. In addition to photography, I also enjoy writing and teaching others about photography and outdoor exploration. I am passionate about sharing my unique perspective, experiences, and stories through photographs – the perfect balance of artistry and technical skill.
March 2026:
Lifeblood: Youth Art Show
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.
The Kouba Gallery’s March exhibition proudly celebrates Youth Art Month while exploring the powerful bond between art and the natural world. Inspired by this year’s Youth Art Month theme, “The World Needs Art,” young artists from across Minnesota were invited to reflect on how creativity sustains, inspires, and connects us. Through the Kouba Gallery subtheme “Lifeblood,” students share their perspectives on how both art and nature are essential in nourishing their lives and communities. This dynamic exhibition highlights the voices of emerging artists who see nature and wildlife as not just integral in their inspiration, but also essential in sharing their messages. From intricate sculptures to vibrant paintings, these works emphasize how both nature and art are the lifeblood in the creative process and self expression for many artists.
February 2026:
Nature Vs. Machines
The Artwork of Jim Davis
The Mississippi River provides a heartbeat and connector for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. It supports commerce, recreation, research, advocacy and learning, spiritual reflection for people and, of course, it also serves as an important migration corridor and habitat for birds, animals, and fish.