sandzen studio - lindsborg

December 28, 1930

Charter member of the Prairie Print Makers

met in front of the studio of Birger Sandzen

 Charter members of Prairie Print Makers

Birger Sandzén’s studio is still in the same condition it was in on the day that he died. Members of the Nelson Atkins Print Society drove out to Lindsborg, Kansas to take the tour of Sandzen's studio. Our entourage was divided into two groups. In this manner both groups were able to see the inside of the studio and listen to the gallery staffer speak.

"Granite Banks," Lithograph, 1932, Birger Sandzen

Eighteen minutes. Our guide Rose Marie Wallen led us. Our group saw the big brushes the painter used, his library of books, the handmade apple trees, the oriental statuary he admired and much more. Double click on image to enlarge.

"Trees and Hills," Lithograph, 1920, Birger Sandzen

"Smoky Hill River," Linoleum cut, 1938, Birger Sandzen

Sandzen's desk

Studio has not yet been added the the National Registry of Historic Places.

As we walked back to the main gallery, I couldn't help but notice the trees on campus. The kind that show up in Sandzen's imagery. Take the Ponderoso pine below.

"In the Heart of the Rockies," Woodcut (Nailcut), 1919, Birger Sandzen

Today the premises where the studio of Birger Sandzen stands looks like any other property in Lindsborg. Yet it was here that relationships with Sandzen - discussed, made plans, shared the latest endeavor, and encouraged each to cut wood blocks, draw litho stones, paint canvases. Art students carried their experiences beyond Lindsborg. The memory of this place remains a touchpoint.           Karl Marxhausen

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Photo of Prairie Print Maker Charter Members courtesy of "The Prairie Print Makers," Exhibits USA and Mid-America Arts Alliance, 2001

Post by Karl Marxhausen

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