Steve Hanson feels an immeasurable connection to his 10-acre farmstead in Worth County, IA, a few miles outside Northwood. In 1945, his grandparents purchased the property and ran it as a typical Iowa farm, growing corn and soybeans and raising livestock, including hogs, cattle, and chickens.
Hanson’s parents became the next owners, and now, the farm belongs to Steve, who, in recent years, has managed to honor his family’s legacy, Iowa’s cultural farming identity, and a passion for art in a highly unique way.
The Hanson farm (which still produces corn and soybeans) continues to shine brightly, but has been reincarnated as Art Farm Iowa, a nonprofit attraction specializing in the development and showcasing of art and agriculture, community engagement, events, and much more.
“Art Farm Iowa is rooted in the idea that culture does not only belong in large cities or museums, but also on farms, along main streets, in fairgrounds, and gathering places along rural America,” said Hanson, who co-founded Art Farm Iowa in 2022. “We celebrate the resilience, creativity, hospitality, and work ethic that define the Iowa way of life.
“Art Farm Iowa’s mission is not simply to display or create art, but to strengthen community pride, encourage cultural exchange, and ensure that rural Iowa remains a vibrant and inspiring place for future generations.”
An Immersive Experience
Visitors to Art Farm Iowa will find themselves transported to another world. Located at 4953 Olive Avenue in Northwood, Art Farm Iowa is hard to miss from the road, but an up-close look at the premises reveals an expansive, multidimensional creative environment.
On-site art includes a gallery, sculptures, a ceramics and glass center, and a mural garden. Its work is produced by beginners, on-the-rise locals, and established professionals alike, while Hanson preaches togetherness via a wealth of activities and events.
"At Art Farm Iowa, visitors will find far more than a traditional art venue – they will discover an immersive, welcoming creative destination rooted in the culture, history, and spirit of rural Iowa,” Hanson said. “At their fingertips are hands-on workshops, live music, rotating art exhibitions, artist residencies, community gatherings, agricultural experiences, and opportunities to simply slow down and connect with creativity in meaningful ways.
“Whether someone is an artist, a family looking for a unique outing, a traveler passing through, or a local searching for inspiration, Art Farm Iowa offers experiences that are interactive, unexpected, and deeply connected to place."
Upcoming Events
A full listing of Art Farm Iowa’s upcoming events can be found here. Highlights include:
“The Upcycled Garden” exhibition by Daniel 'Attaboy' Seifert (May 29 to Aug. 1). Siefert transforms reclaimed materials into art, highlighting sustainability and creativity in a rural context.
"SCULPTURE" exhibition by Jim & Sue Heemstra (May 29 to Sept. 13). Iowa artists Jim & Sue Heemstra will take over the grounds of Art Farm Iowa with their colorful ceramic totems and sculpture.
"Celebrating 250 Years of American Creativity" festival of art & music (July 3-5). Join Art Farm Iowa in celebrating the United States' 250th Anniversary with art exhibitions, crafts, storytelling, food, and music.
"Shaping Space" from Janel Garza (Aug. 7 to Nov. 15). "Shaping Space" is an exhibition of artworks from Arizona artist Janel Garza.
Art Farm Iowa’s Growing Reputation
The majority of Art Farm Iowa’s visitors are locals, coming from nearby Northwood, Mason City, Clear Lake or across the Minnesota border. But Hanson also delights in seeing folks from Minneapolis or Des Moines stop by. Additionally, a growing number of international visitors have made the trek to the farm, as has English contemporary artist Lucy Sparrow. The impact of Art Farm Iowa was also seen in local 16-year-old artist Lane Rygh of Lake Mills being featured in one of its exhibitions.
“Art Farm Iowa is vital in bringing communities together by creating a space where creativity sparks connection, conversation, and pride in rural Iowa,” Hanson said. “Our events and exhibitions give local artists and entrepreneurs valuable exposure and credibility, helping them reach new audiences while showing visitors the incredible talent and innovation thriving in our area.”
In 2026, Art Farm Iowa is open May 29 to Nov. 15 with the following hours:
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