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Nora Venturelli: "Rooted" at WSG

January 30, 2026

Stamps Lecturer II Nora Venturelli (BFA ​’95) is featured in a new solo exhibition at Ann Arbor’s WSG. Rooted, on view from February 4 — March 14, 2026, features recent paintings and drawings of Michigan landscapes.

AN OIL PAINTING OF A FIELD FULL OF SUNFLOWERS
Nora Venturelli, Sunflower Fields. Oil on Canvas, 10×20.

Venturelli notes:

I moved to Michigan 30 years ago and before then, I never thought I would be so compelled to draw and paint the landscape. My attention had always been immersed solely in figurative work. However, after my second Michigan winter, I was anxious to be outdoors and of course I brought my paints with me. I have not stopped painting the landscape since!

I find an overwhelming, therapeutic tranquility while painting outdoors, and a spontaneity that does not happen while painting in the studio. The rush of the breeze, the heat of the sun, the sounds of the fields. It all adds freshness and vivacity to my work. I am usually drawn to long vistas, wide-open spaces. I’m attracted to subtle changes in textures and color, the overlapping and layering of planes.

I have ​“rooted” in Michigan. This landscape has become a part of my identity, shaping both my life and my work.
A charcoal and pastel drawing of a snowy field, with a barn and home in the distance.
Nora Venturelli, After the storm. Charcoal and Pastel on Paper, 24×40.

The exhibition’s opening reception will take place from 2 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, February 18.

Nora Venturelli: Rooted
Exhibition Dates: February 4 — March 14, 2026
Opening Reception: Sunday, February 15, 2 – 5 p.m.
WSG Gallery, 111 E Ann St., Ann Arbor MI

An oil painting of a fall scene
Nora Venturelli, Layers of Fall. Oil on Canvas, 12×12.