Christian Petersen Art Museum
Campbell Gallery, 1017 Morrill Hall
August 25, 2025 – February 13, 2026
In concert with the arrival of the newest sculpture to the Art on Campus Collection, Hive Mind by artist Beth Lipman, University Museums presents a selection of Lipman’s exceptional multimedia sculptures and two-dimensional works of art. The works of art represent a lineage of Lipman’s dynamic explorations into the layering of time examining the intertwining of humanity and nature. From her series of laid tables—featuring an overflowing abundance of fruits, foods, and material culture, all rendered in glass—to her more nuanced photographic images that place glass objects and non-natural elements within various landscapes to address broader environmental concerns, the exhibition surveys Lipman’s research-driven process and her deep connection to the people and places her art engages with. Each installation and object in the exhibition Middle of the Story demonstrates how Lipman deftly uses material culture to represent time and place in three dimensions, culminating in the development and installation of Hive Mind, a major public work of art dedicated to the past, present, and future of the impactful research and people at Iowa State University.
This exhibition is curated and organized by Beth Lipman and University Museums.
Support is provided by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority. Generous support for the exhibition was also 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.
Exhibition Programs
Find full descriptions of programs on the University Museums Calendar. All programs are free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged but not required. Click the event title for more information and to register. Events listed below will be at the Christian Petersen Art Museum, Campbell Gallery (1017 Morrill Hall, 603 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa) unless otherwise noted. Times are Central Standard Time (CST). Programs are subject to change. Check the University Museums Calendar and Facebook page for the latest events information.
Explore! Glass in the Garden
September 13, 2025, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (US Central)
Location: Anderson Sculpture Garden, between Morrill Hall and the Hub
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
September 17, 2025, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (US Central)
Location: Christian Petersen Art Museum, 1017 Morrill Hall
Artist Beth Lipman has spent her career exploring history and humanity through material culture. Her exceptional laid tables and installations use the objects of everyday life to reference people and placemaking over time. Join University Museums to learn how Lipman’s artistic career led her to create Hive Mind, a new major public work of art on central campus dedicated to the past, present, and future of the impactful research and people at Iowa State University.
Visual Histories: University Museums and Ames History Museum
October 5, 2025, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (US Central)
Location: Christian Petersen Art Museum, 1017 Morrill Hall
A weekend opportunity to learn how Beth Lipman’s new sculpture Hive Mind intertwines the stories of Iowa State and Ames community members in the new massive installation.
Museum Meetup: Exploring Glass!
October 23, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (US Central)
Location: Christian Petersen Art Museum, 1017 Morrill Hall
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. Explore the gallery and enjoy free treats while you're here!
Artists and Archives: Creating Contemporary Art from History
November 6, 2025, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM (US Central)
Location: University Library, Room 198
A collaborative discussion between University Museums and the University Library’s department of Special Collections and University Archives examining how artists have used archives as resources for the creation of contemporary art.
Save the date for a special event on February 13 - details coming soon!
Visit the Christian Petersen Art Museum
Hours:
Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Closed Saturday & Sunday and University holidays & breaks
See when the museums are closed.
Address: 1017 Morrill Hall, 603 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa
Admission: The cost is free; however, there is a suggested donation of $8.