Rural America

In The Iowa State Fair, Kurt opens the barn doors of “History,” a chapter where the butter cow, tractor pulls, motorhomes, cattle, and stories abound as precise, clear memories.

In 2013, Kurt set out to chronicle the magic of the Iowa State Fair in words and black and white photographs.

On a day in July (2026) -

Kurt takes the road to where he belongs, among diminutive and sprinting creatures, and alongside classmates at a high school reunion yet to come.

On a day in February (2026) - 

Silence and moonbeams fill the hollow, while dust gathers on well-traveled ice skates in Kurt’s basement.

On a day in August (2026) -

Kurt paints a memory of his mother’s hands, the ritual of school supply lists, and conversations with creatures in the hollow.

On a day in September (2025) -

Kurt finds affirmation in a letter, a smile, and on the field he cross for his wife.

On a day in August (2025) - 

Kurt is joined by a passenger as he observes the fading of summer—the purple blooms of thistle plants, the electric buzzing of cicadas, and the swirling gold leaves.

On a day in August (2025) -

Kurt hears the far too close yipping of coyotes, retires tethered pages of his past, and prepares remarks about the one who drove away the cold. 

On a day in April (2025) -

Kurt portrays a looming and eager Luna, receives a reminder that the serene hollow nestles near the modern world, and offers strength through old memories.

On a day in September (2023) - 

Kurt is interrupted by a menacing grey squirrel, shares the pleasantry of "tiny human speeches," and offers a wish for the nearing autumn.

On a day in June (2021) - 

Kurt outlines grain augers at dusk, reconnects with once-acquaintances, and awaits the hours he’ll spend on his tractor, singing in full voice.