10/19/2026
As the summer season winds down here on beautiful Madeline Island, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredibly fulfilling and vibrant few months of creativity and connection. Fall is such a short season, but I have to look at what's been my 2026 Summer/Fall.
1. Summer Accomplishments
This summer was full of fantastic opportunities to share my work with both on Madeline Island locals and visitors, and in Minneapolis. I participated in four Island exhibitions hosted at WOW ART Studio + Gallery, each bringing a unique energy and audience to the island’s artistic community. I also showcased my ceramics in a special exhibition at the La Pointe Center for the Arts. Beyond the island, I exhibited paintings at Gallery 360 in Minneapolis. In addition, I installed two new sculptures at WOW ART Studio + Gallery on the island and have started work on a new one, further enriching the outdoor art experience here. I conducted eight live demonstrations this summer and hosted over 15 Music Monday night receptions, creating wonderful moments of interaction, live music, and inspiration.
2. New Collections to Explore
Debuting this summer were two new collections. "Dedicated to the One We Love," is my ceramic Heart series, which explores themes of affection and connection through tactile forms. "Sticks and Stones,” which opened in August, is a series of photographs highlighting found objects from the beach—capturing beauty in nature’s simplicity. Color photos featuring these found beach objects are available at the gallery and on my website as well. These collections represent different facets of my evolving artistic expression inspired by the island’s natural surroundings. Also available is my series of gunpowder “Heart” paintings, which will be perfect for your 2027 Valentine giving.
3. WOW ART Studio + Gallery Hours
For those planning visits this fall, WOW ART Studio + Gallery will remain open through the end of October. Fall hours are Monday through Saturday from noon to 4pm unless the call of croquet brings me to town. We are closed on Sundays.
4. Staying Connected and Shopping Online
If you’re not currently on the island, you can still experience and purchase my artwork online. Please visit www.wowstudiogallery.com to explore my current collections and new pieces. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook at Steve McHugh-ART for daily updates, including new paintings and wearable art earrings that will soon be added to the website. For over 18 years, I’ve been personally handling communications and shipping, ensuring that collectors receive their artwork with care and confidence.
5. Reflections on Madeline Island and My Creative Process
Madeline Island and the Apostle Islands continue to be a profound source of inspiration for me—a remote, nature-based sanctuary that informs everything I create. As summer draws to a close, I have wrapped up my acrylic painting practice for the season and am shifting indoors to focus on oil painting. I’ll be sharing new works regularly on social media, and I hope you will join me in this creative journey.
6. What Visitors Are Saying
Many visitors have shared their delight, saying “WOW” as they step into the studio. It’s a light-filled, visual experience set against the backdrop of forest and nature—something truly special that adds to the emotional connection with the artwork.
Thank you for being part of this artistic adventure. Whether you visit the island or connect online, I deeply appreciate your support and enthusiasm. Stay tuned for upcoming events, new collections, and stories as the seasons change.
