Local Artist Shirley Wise Celebrates 90 Years of Creative Expression

Shirley Wise,Longtime Resident,Remembered for Love of Family and Gardening

By Archyde Staff

Hiawatha,Iowa – April 17,2025

Shirley Wise,a cherished resident of Hiawatha,has passed away at the age of 85. she died peacefully at her home on April 17, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born Shirley Ruroden in Lansing,Iowa,on March 4,1940,to Lloyd and Clara Ruroden,shirley was known for her warm heart and vibrant spirit.

She shared a remarkable 68-year marriage with her beloved husband, Warren Wise. They were married on August 4, 1956, at the historic Little Brown Church.

Shirley found immense joy in cultivating her flower gardens and tending to her vegetable patch. She was also an accomplished cook and baker, with a particular fondness for collecting cookbooks.

Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her son, Wayne, and her husband, Warren. She is survived by her son,Wes,her granddaughter,Katie (tom),and two great-grandchildren,sam and Claire.

In accordance with Shirley’s wishes, she was cremated. Her ashes will be interred at Canoe Ridge Lutheran Cemetery. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society or UnityPoint Hospice.

online condolences can be shared with the family through iowacremation.com,under the obituaries section.

Frequently Asked Questions

• what was shirley Wise’s age at the time of her passing? Shirley Wise was 85 years old.
• What was Shirley Wise’s cause of death? She passed away from pancreatic cancer.
• Where was Shirley Wise born? She was born in Lansing, Iowa.
• What were Shirley Wise’s hobbies? She enjoyed tending to her flowers and garden, and collecting cookbooks.
• How long was Shirley Wise married to her husband, Warren? They were married for 68 years.
• What are the suggested memorial contributions? The family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society or UnityPoint Hospice.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Wise family and friends. Share your memories of Shirley in the comments below,and help us celebrate her life. You can also share this tribute with others.

How has Shirley Wise’s diverse exploration of artistic mediums – painting, sculpture, and mixed media – contributed to the evolution of her unique artistic style?

A Lifetime Immersed in Art: Shirley Wise’s Journey

Shirley Wise, a beloved figure in the local art scene, is celebrating a remarkable milestone: 90 years of dedicated creative expression. Throughout her nine decades,Wise has consistently explored various artistic mediums,leaving an indelible mark on the community and inspiring generations of artists. her work, often described as vibrant and emotionally resonant, reflects a life lived fully and observed keenly. This article delves into the highlights of her career, her artistic evolution, and the impact she’s had on the world of painting, sculpture, and mixed media.

Early Influences and Artistic Beginnings

Born in 1935, Shirley Wise’s artistic journey began in childhood.Growing up in a rural setting, she found inspiration in the natural world – the landscapes, flora, and fauna surrounding her.

Early Training: Wise received foundational art training at the local community center, focusing on watercolor painting and sketching. These early lessons instilled in her a strong understanding of composition, color theory, and perspective.

Key Inspirations: She frequently cites Georgia O’Keeffe and Frida Kahlo as significant influences, admiring their bold use of color and their ability to convey personal narratives through art. The impact of regional artists, particularly those focused on landscape painting, also played a role in shaping her early style.

First Exhibition: Her first public exhibition was a small display of watercolors at the town’s annual fair in 1953, marking the beginning of her public artistic life.

Evolution of Style and Mediums

wise’s artistic style has evolved considerably over the years, demonstrating a willingness to experiment and embrace new techniques.She hasn’t been confined to a single medium, rather, she’s explored a diverse range of artistic expressions.

From Watercolor Landscapes to Abstract Expressionism

Initially known for her delicate watercolor landscapes, Wise transitioned towards more abstract forms in the 1970s. This shift coincided with a period of personal exploration and a growing interest in expressing inner emotions through art.

the abstract Period (1970s-1980s): This era saw Wise experimenting with acrylics and oils, creating large-scale abstract paintings characterized by bold colors and dynamic brushstrokes. Her work during this time frequently enough explored themes of memory, loss, and resilience.

sculptural Explorations: In the 1990s, Wise began incorporating three-dimensional elements into her work, creating sculptures from found objects and recycled materials. This foray into sculpture added another layer of depth and texture to her artistic repertoire.

Recent works: Mixed Media and Digital Art

In recent years, Wise has embraced mixed media and digital art, blending traditional techniques with contemporary technologies.

Mixed Media Collages: Her current work frequently enough features intricate collages incorporating paint, paper, fabric, and other found materials. These pieces are frequently enough layered with meaning,reflecting her lifelong fascination with storytelling.

Digital Painting: Wise has also begun experimenting with digital painting software, creating vibrant and dynamic images on a tablet. This allows her to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of her artistic expression.

Community Impact and Legacy

Shirley Wise’s impact extends far beyond her individual artistic achievements. she has been a dedicated advocate for the arts in the community, actively involved in numerous initiatives to promote creativity and artistic education.

Founding the Local Arts Collective: In 1985, Wise co-founded the Local Arts Collective, a non-profit institution dedicated to supporting local artists and providing art education programs for children and adults.

Mentorship and Teaching: For over three decades, Wise has served as a mentor to countless aspiring artists, sharing her knowledge and passion for art. She has taught workshops and classes at the community center, local schools, and private studios.

Public Art Installations: Wise has created several public art installations throughout the city, adding beauty and vibrancy to public spaces. Her mural at the community library,completed in 2000,remains a beloved landmark.

Exhibitions and Recognition

Throughout her career, Shirley Wise’s work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums.

Solo Exhibitions: She has had over 20 solo exhibitions, showcasing her diverse body of work.

Group Exhibitions: Her work has been included in numerous group exhibitions, both locally and nationally.

* Awards and Honors: Wise has received several awards and honors for her artistic achievements,including the prestigious “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Regional Arts Council in