Transforming hives and honeycombs into a 'Wax Cathedral'

Katharine Schmidt showcased her exhibit “Wax Cathedral” at the Creston Arts Gallery last August. Growing up near her grandfather's bee farm in Winner, South Dakota, Schmidt developed a fascination for honeybees, despite modestly downplaying her work with them. She recalls observing honeybee issues like mites through a microscope with her grandfather, nurturing her affection for these insects.

Now a printmaker based in Des Moines with Honeybear Press, Schmidt's recent collection features a honeybee theme. The “Spectrum” series, consisting of three pieces, highlights the crops that influence honey production. Utilizing encaustic painting, which melds prints with wax, the exhibit showcases the unique textures of each artwork, emphasizing the honeybee theme throughout.