ArtWise will host an art exhibition for Eric Castle October 9-November 22, 2025 at their Grand Cities Mall location. The artist’s opening will be October 9 from 5:00-7:00.

Bio: Melodie Alt has the Barefaced Painting studio in Grafton, ND where she shares her artwork and provides art classes throughout the year. She visits various classrooms in the Grafton area for art classes. Earlier this past year Alt filled the hallways of Century Elementary in Grafton with colorful murals, thanks to a grant from the Afterschool Network of North Dakota.

Artist statement: “The object of art is not to reproduce reality but create a reality of the same intensity. This quote by Alberto Giacometti has become a touchstone in my work.  My work is vibrant, colorful and expressive.  My line work composition and paint colors help the viewer move through the work and the emotion I am trying to portray.  In the beginning I struggled with wanting to give the audience what I perceived they wanted. However, as I evolved as an artist, I discovered that the audience doesn't truly exist while I create. In those moments, the artwork is a personal expression, meant solely for my own exploration and creativity. It’s in that space of authenticity that I find my voice and purpose.”

“We are excited to have Melodie Alt’s artwork in the ArtWise gallery. Her bold colors, forms and lines create artwork that reflects North Dakota.”  -Rita Haag