Art in Small Places

Travel through the small towns of eastern Iowa's Jones County, and you may encounter hidden talent without knowing it. Hidden in the small towns are painters, blacksmiths, quilters, basket weavers, gun smiths and more working quietly in the small towns, farmhouses, or studios.

The book, Art in Small Places brings together their work into one volume that is filled with full-color photos of each one's art alongside their personal stories.

Author and Monticello resident Richard J. Tapia spent a couple of years visiting with the artists from Anamosa to Wyoming, and Olin to Stone City. He interviewed each of them and closely examined the uniqueness of their creative work. The result is his documented personal encounter with all the unique talent that exists in places you'd least expect to find it. His book reveals that there is a deep appreciation for regional beauty and that creativity thrives beyond the larger cities.

You just need to know where to look.