Mary Merkel-Hess

Mary Merkel-Hess grew up in the farmlands of Iowa, where she still lives and works. Studying both metalsmithing and fiber for her undergraduate degrees, Merkel-Hess received an MFA in metalsmithing from the University of Iowa under the tutelage of Professor Chunghi Choo.

Merkel-Hess creates what she calls “landscape reports.” Working with reeds, paper cords, and a mixture similar to papier-mâché, Merkel-Hess creates sculptural basket-like forms inspired by the natural surroundings in Iowa.

  • Mary Merkel-Hess sketching plants from her yard
    Mary Merkel-Hess sketching plants from her yard
  • Mary Merkel-Hess sketching plants from her yard
    Mary Merkel-Hess sketching plants from her yard
  • Mary Merkel-Hess' sketch
    Mary Merkel-Hess’ sketch
  • Mary Merkel-Hess builds her vessel form
  • Mary Merkel-Hess paints her work
    Mary Merkel-Hess paints her work
  • Mary Merkel-Hess, In Chephren's Temple, 2010
    Mary Merkel-Hess, In Chephren’s Temple, 2010
  • Mary Merkel-Hess, Morning Colors
    Mary Merkel-Hess, Morning Colors
  • Mary Merkel-Hess, Morning Colors (detail)
    Mary Merkel-Hess, Morning Colors (detail)
  • Mary Merkel-Hess with Professor Chunghi Choo, Craft in America
    Mary Merkel-Hess with Professor Chunghi Choo