For more than a century, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library has connected our community with the arts — a tradition that began when the library first opened its doors in 1902. Today, that legacy continues through Art @ Your Library, a monthly celebration of local creativity held beneath the historic rotunda.
As part of Dubuque’s First Fridays celebrations, the library comes alive each month with alternating exhibits from local artists and musicians, transforming the space into a vibrant gallery at the heart of downtown.
Meet the Artists
This April and May, Art @ Your Library celebrates the arrival of spring through three distinct artistic voices. Christy Kirk’s watercolor florals bring blooming beauty, Andrew Raeside’s abstract work adds bold color and energy, and Don Hedeman’s paintings offer unexpected details that invite a closer look. Together, their work captures the Spring season – fresh, vibrant, and full of surprise. Want to get a peek at the exhibit and hear from the artists themselves? Check out the video here.
Don Hedeman – Acrylic
Mr. Hedeman was born and lived his childhood years in Hanover, Illinois. After serving in the U.S. Army for 3 years, he went to college at the Iowa State Teachers College. In 1970, he and his wife Frances (Hood) moved to Dubuque. Mr. Hedeman spent most of his working life as a commercial artist, but he spent the last six years before retirement, teaching flying in the University of Dubuque Flight Program. He has spent twenty years since retiring trying to learn how to paint, but he is on the edge of quitting in despair.
Christy Kirk – Watercolor
Christy Kirk is the artist and owner of C.A.K. ART in Dubuque, Iowa, specializing in original watercolor paintings and local photography. A Dubuque native, she draws inspiration from her flower gardens, area landmarks, and the beauty of all four seasons. Her work often features florals and includes wall art, notecards, and bookmarks.
She began painting in 2017 as a retirement hobby after a 40-year career in a local computer firm. Since 2019, she has been a vendor at the Dubuque Farmers’ Market, continuing a family tradition, and this year marks her eighth season. Christy also participates in art and craft shows throughout the year, with her work reaching customers across the U.S. and internationally. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, reading, traveling, and spending time with family. Her artwork makes meaningful gifts for any occasion, and custom pieces are available upon request. You can email her at cak0820@msn.com for more information or check out https://www.facebook.com/C.A.K.ARTDBQ/
Andrew Raeside – Abstract
Andrew Raeside is a Dubuque area artist working primarily in the Abstract Expressionist tradition. His work has been displayed or sold in a variety of venues in the Driftless region, in addition to numerous locations in New England. One of Raeside’s stated goals is to use Abstract art to help build community in the Driftless region and to celebrate both the differences and the similarities between all humans.
He received a BFA degree from The University of Northern Iowa and a Masters from Plymouth State University of NH in art teaching. He was an art and music teacher at a school for kids with emotional disabilities in Northfield, NH for 27 years before retiring and relocating to Dubuque, IA to be close to family.
We invite you to stop by and experience the exhibit in person. Interested in showcasing your own work? Apply to exhibit at the library here.