'Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story' joins fall exhibitions

Representing time

Lipman's art joins the new fall exhibitions opening at University Museums, Iowa State University. Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story opens to the public on August 25, 2025 at the Christian Petersen Art Museum, Morrill Hall, 603 Morrill Rd. It will feature selections from the artist, including multimedia sculptures and 2D works of art.

Recognized for her glass compositions, Lipman's sculptures often reflect the still-life paintings of the Renaissance and Baroque time periods. Items within her sculptures are handpicked by Lipman to remind viewers of the interconnection of humans, time and nature.

In addition to her sculptures, the exhibition will feature photographic images that place glass objects and non-natural elements within various landscapes to guide the audience through broader environmental concerns.

"Beth Lipman’s use of material culture and history to create contemporary installations are powerful representations of how art can connect deeply with a place and people over large spans of time, says Adrienne Gennett, curator of the exhibition. "Her new sculpture, Hive Mind, now installed on campus is a wonderful example of the culmination of where she is now in her artistic journey. The exhibition, Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story, examines her path to this point and the artistic explorations that have led to her dynamic creations and internationally recognized success."

Additional learning opportunities

The public can also view Lipman's art within University Museum's Art on Campus collection. Hive Mind, located between Beardshear Hall and the Hub, was installed this summer, and features Lipman's thorough research of Iowa State University's past, present, and future.

"Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story" is curated and organized by Beth Lipman and University Museums and will run through December 2025. Additional support for the exhibition and programs was given by Stewart L. Burger, Wilson Family Endowed Exhibition Fund, Paul and Lynn Hempe, Liz and Randy Hertz, Art Bridges, Marilyn and Paul Gennett, and University Museums Membership. 

Special Exhibition Events

Explore! Glass in the Garden

Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Anderson Sculpture Garden

Explore the wonderous world of glass. Activities and crafts for children and families will focus on the uniqueness of glass while surrounded by sculptures and nature in the Anderson Sculpture Garden. Activities geared towards K-5 ages; all are welcome. Outdoor event weather permitting.

Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story

Wednesday, Sept. 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Christian Petersen Art Museum

Beth Lipman explores history and humanity through material culture, creating laid tables and installations that reference people and placemaking. University Museums presents her new major public artwork Hive Mind on central campus, celebrating the past, present, and future of Iowa State University’s research and community.

Visual Histories: University Museums and Ames History Museum

Sunday, Oct. 5, 2-3 p.m. 
Christian Petersen Art Museum

Spend a weekend exploring Beth Lipman’s new sculpture Hive Mind, which weaves together the stories of Iowa State and Ames community members. Experience the indoor exhibition Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story and the outdoor sculpture while hearing from curator Adrienne Gennett and Ames History Museum staff. The event is open to all interested in Ames history and University Museums.

Museum Meetup: Exploring Glass!

Thursday, Oct. 23, 6-8 p.m. 
Christian Petersen Art Museum

I spy … a table made of glass! Spot the unexpected in Beth Lipman: Middle of the Story at the Christian Petersen Art Museum! Join us for a fun scavenger hunt and etched glass activity inspired by the exhibition’s stunning glass installations. Snap a pic at the selfie station and enjoy free treats while you're here.

Artists and Archives: Creating Contemporary Art from History

Thursday, Nov. 6, 5:30-6:30 p.m. 
198 Parks Library

Join a collaborative discussion with University Museums and the University Library’s Special Collections and University Archives on how artists use archives to create contemporary art. Explore Beth Lipman’s process using Special Collections objects for the glass elements of her new public sculpture Hive Mind, reflecting Iowa State University’s past, present, and future.