Connecting Art and Nature: The 2024 Artists in Residence at Jewel Cave National Monument and Agate Fossil Beds National Monument

Art and nature intertwine through the inspiring work of the 2024 Artists in Residence at Agate Fossil Beds and Jewel Cave. Through their unique perspectives, these talented creators invite us to see our national landscapes in new and powerful ways.

Art has always played a vital role in how we connect with America’s natural landscapes, and the NPS Artist in Residence program continues that tradition. In 2024, Agate Fossil Beds welcomed two talented artists: photographer John Emery and mixed-media artist Magan Ruthke. Both artists found unique inspiration in the monument’s grasslands, history, and culture, creating works that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument’s 2024 Artists

John Emery: Capturing the Emotional Power of the Plains

John Emery, a large-format photographer, (photography featured in the header above) spent two weeks at Agate using both modern and antique glass plate cameras to capture the subtle beauty of the plains. He wrote in a blog post about his experience, “Grasslands and the plains don’t receive the attention or respect they deserve. While there may not be dramatic mountains, canyons, or spectacular waterfalls, the plains have an aura about them that is harder to describe.”

John’s time at Agate was a deeply emotional journey, he says. The stark contrast of the landscape, from serene sunny days to dramatic snowstorms, provided endless inspiration for his black-and-white photography. Whether capturing the eerie calls of coyotes at dawn or the dark night skies untouched by city lights, John’s photographs reflect a profound connection to the natural solitude of the plains.

A hand holds up a rectangular painting against the backdrop of an open, grassy landscape under a clear blue sky. The painting features a stylized depiction of the same landscape, with geometric patterns in vibrant yellow, orange, and pink tones representing the ground, and a deep blue sky with white clouds above. A path or crack runs through the center of the image, creating a sense of depth and movement. The painting draws inspiration from the natural surroundings, blending traditional and modern artistic styles.

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“I’ve hiked the hills, driven the long straight roads through pasture and prairie, tromped through wetlands, visited small towns, viewed insane dark sky, and made progress on work for back home.”
– Magan Ruthke

Magan Ruthke: Balancing Nature and Culture

Magan Ruthke explored Agate in February, drawn to both the open landscapes and the cultural history embedded in the park. Both a far cry from her home in Baltimore. As a mixed-media artist, Magan was particularly inspired by the vibrant patterns and colors found in the Lakota art within the Cook Collection at Agate. While she and her work is not of Lakota origin, she respectfully integrated those artistic influences she encountered with the expansive views of the grasslands.

Reflecting on her experience, Magan shared, “I’ve hiked the hills, driven the long straight roads through pasture and prairie, tromped through wetlands, visited small towns, viewed insane dark sky, and made progress on work for back home. I’m so grateful for our National Parks and their staff for making programs like the AiR possible.”

A display of volunteer appreciation items from Jewel Cave National Monument. In the center is a white bandana with blue and orange illustrations, including a tree, lanterns, crystals, bats, and helmets, along with the words "Jewel Cave National Monument" and "Volunteer." Above the bandana are two topographic map postcards and a set of colorful Jewel Cave-themed stickers. The items are laid out on a wooden surface.

Jewel Cave National Monument’s 2024 Artist

Audrey Merwin: Jewel Cave’s first ever Artist In Residence

Audrey spent a week at Jewel Cave in June to soak in the experience and resources of the monument, then continued working on her projects through July. Her incredible eye for detail and inviting creative process have been the highlights of her work here at Jewel Cave. She created graphic designs and artistic iconography for the park to use as volunteer appreciation items, including a bandana and magnets. Audrey’s artwork was premiered at the Volunteer Appreciation event at Jewel Cave on September 28th

Supporting Conservation Through Art

Both John and Magan donated works created during their residencies to Agate Fossil Beds, where they are now on display for visitors to enjoy. Audrey’s work will be seen by visitors for years to come on the gear used by park volunteers. Their contributions are part of a larger tradition of artists helping to foster a deeper connection between the public and our national parks. Art has the power to connect people to the landscapes they care about, encouraging a sense of stewardship and conservation.

BHPFA’s Role in Supporting the AiR Program

The Artist in Residence program and the artist seminars at Agate Fossil Beds and Jewel Cave are made possible with the support of the BHPFA. By providing essential funding, BHPFA ensures that artists like John, Magan, and Audrey have the resources they need to create and share their work with the public. This enriches the visitor experience and promoting the conservation of our natural and cultural heritage.