At 91 years old, Phyllis Jorgenson’s lifetime of stories is beautifully preserved in paint. Until now, much of her work has remained a private treasure, shared only with close friends and family. This exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore a curated selection of her pieces – each one a visual story of her family history, travels both near and far and keen observations of life’s quiet moments and grand inspirations.

Creativity has always been a guiding force in Phyllis’s life, though in her earlier years, it took shape in the roles of devoted wife and mother. In 1970, her husband Glenn was coping with relentless and unexplainable headaches. He became addicted to prescription opioids and further self-medicated with alcohol. Phyllis helped him seek treatment, leading to his recovery, and together they turned their experience into a mission. They founded River Park, South Dakota’s first non-profit, privately funded addiction treatment center. Their work not only transformed countless lives, but also changed societal perceptions, helping to dismantle the stigma surrounding addiction.

As her children grew, Phyllis rekindled her creative spirit, teaching herself to paint through mail-in kits, workshops, magazine studies and community art gatherings. Her dedication to her craft is evident in the care with which she framed and displayed her work in her home, a testament to both her passion and perseverance.

This exhibition is more than a collection of paintings; it is a celebration of Phyllis Jorgenson’s extraordinary life. Through each brushstroke, we see her resilience, her love of beauty and her commitment to art, family and humanity.