A painter, printmaker, former arts organizer and curator, Katharen Wiese’s creative practice has explored identity among African diasporic Nebraskans, facilitated cross disciplinary collaboration and highlighted the work of emerging BIPOC artists in the midwest.

Wiese uses found materials and takes inspiration from the work of African American artists, analyzing the relationship between power and Blackness as they relate to American identity and color politics.

This vision, paired with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, earned Katharen leadership experience in program design and art curation for organizations and galleries, including the South of Downtown Community Development Organization, Tugboat Gallery, Parallel Visions, and the LUX Center for the Arts. Additionally, her work has been featured in group exhibitions across Nebraska, including the Prairie Arts Center, the Sheldon Museum of Art, Tugboat Gallery, and Kiechel Fine Art.

Whether creating a piece, being featured in a collaborative or solo exhibition, or curating a show for fellow artists, Katharen’s mission remains consistent–promoting the work and artistry of African American artists and people.