Museum News (April 14, 2025)

By: Press Release
| Published 04/16/2025

A Journey Through Time—Suzi Taylor of Fontanelle, NE, and friend Cara Veh Hubbard of McPherson, KS, explore the Hansen Museum’s current exhibition A Place to Call Home.
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The Hansen Museum continues to buzz with creativity and community spirit, offering an exciting lineup of classes, exhibitions, and cultural events that keep the spirit of art alive in northwest Kansas. The latest happenings brought together makers and art enthusiasts for a joyful, hands-on experience that was as inspiring as it was fun.

On Saturday, April 13, the Museum hosted a lively Fabric Wrapped Rope Basket Class led by the talented Monica Sellens. The classroom brimmed with laughter, color, and creativity as participants transformed humble materials—scrap fabric, clothesline rope, glue, and a zigzag stitch—into charming, functional baskets.

Monica’s upbeat and engaging teaching style made the workshop a standout event. Her step-by-step guidance, encouragement, and artistic flair helped attendees dive into the process with confidence and creativity. The end results? Beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflected the personality and style of each maker.

“Monica really made it easy and fun,” one participant shared. “I never thought I could make something like this, but now I want to make more!”

The Museum extends its sincere thanks to Monica Sellens for sharing her talents, and to all the wonderful participants who brought their great energy to the day. Events like this are at the heart of the Hansen Museum’s mission—to foster artistic expression and build community through shared creative experiences.

Next up on the calendar are the Magic of Painting classes with certified Bob Ross instructor Hope Blakely, scheduled for Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27. Each day, participants will learn the signature “wet-on-wet” oil painting technique made famous by Bob Ross and leave with a finished painting ready to frame. Whether you're an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this class offers a wonderful opportunity to tap into your inner artist and enjoy the soothing joy of painting. To register, call 785-689-4846 or sign up online at hansenmuseum.org/schedule-of-classes.

In addition to hands-on classes, the Museum is currently featuring the engaging exhibition A Place to Call Home, which is drawing visitors of all ages. This thoughtfully curated exhibit explores why pioneers traveling westward in the 19th century chose to settle in central Kansas between 1850 and 1900. With rich storytelling and historical context, it offers a compelling look at the hopes, hardships, and decisions that helped shape the heartland. It's a must-see for history lovers and curious minds alike.

Stay tuned to the Hansen Museum’s calendar for more exciting classes, exhibitions, and cultural opportunities in the coming weeks—creativity is always in season here!

The Hansen Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday and holidays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Museum is fully handicap accessible, and admission is always free thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation. For more information, please call 785-689-4846. We hope to see you at the Museum soon!