Sailing into the Storm

The Art of John T. Katerberg

Acrylic and Oil on Brass - 60" x 96"

Sailing into the Storm depicts the lumber schooner Ella Ellenwood which operated out of White Lake until 1901 when she ran aground near Milwaukee. This Midwest icon is memorialized in oil and acrylic on brass. The canvas is made of 100+ lbs of welded steel frame and brass. First, the shape of each wave of the oncoming storm was ground into the metal. Then comes the paint and more buffing to add highlights. The waves on the brass canvas give the scene an animating effect so the viewer feels the storm approaching. Sailing into the Storm is currently on display at The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum for the duration of ArtPrize 2025 from September 18 through October 4. Original work: $25,000 Print reproductions not available.

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