Grant Wood, 1932-33, Stone City, Iowa. Photo courtesy of the Grant Wood Art Gallery, Anamosa, Iowa
The Grant Wood Art Colony builds on the spirit of innovation that defined Grant Wood’s time at the University of Iowa. Just steps from where he lived and worked, we cultivate a space where artists and scholars converge—advancing creative expression, honoring a pioneering artist of American Regionalism, and shaping the next generation of artistic and academic excellence.
The Colony
The three pillars of the Colony—fellowship, research, and community engagement—are all carried out adjacent to the home Grant Wood owned and lived in while teaching at the University in the 1930s.
The Fellowship program
This fellowship merges artistic practice with academic engagement in an immersive environment. It honors Grant Wood’s legacy—melding hands-on creation, teaching, and community engagement—while enriching the cultural life of Iowa City.
The Inspiration
After painting one of the most recognizable images in the world, American Gothic, Iowa native Grant Wood joined the University of Iowa faculty. These final years of Wood's life were among his most productive and turbulent, and his influence can be felt today via the Grant Wood Art Colony at the UI.
Meet the current fellows
Living, working, and creating together
"...Grant Wood was at the forefront, celebrating local culture for what it was, what it had been, and what it could be.”
News
Spring Brings a Dynamic Season of Art, Performance, and Dialogue
Grant Wood in unusual places
WIU Alum to be Featured at Obama Presidential Center
2026 Grant Wood Legacy Winners Announced
Support the Grant Wood Art Colony
Be a part of the University of Iowa’s historic commitment to creative work. Your support helps to continue the research, progress, and artistic opportunity made possible by the Grant Wood Art Colony.