Ottumwa artist featured at FMAAA

FORT MADISON - Chris Abigt is an AMAZING oil painter, with her work widely collected in the state of Iowa and across the country. Her attention to detail is profound as is her relationship with the natural subject matter. Her work "twists" beyond realism, employing her own unique style to articulate her story in paint. The FMAAA Art Center, located at 825 Avenue G in Fort Madison, is looking forward to hosting this exhibition in February for our community to experience the beauty of her work. Everyone is welcome to the Opening Reception with a chance to meet the artist on Thursday, February 5, 2026 from 5pm to 7pm.

Chris was born and raised in Marion County, Iowa.  After her marriage to husband, Bill, life took them to Ottumwa, Iowa purchasing and operating the local art and framing gallery in 1985 while raising their three children, now grown with children of their own. The couple operated their gallery and shop together until this past Fall of 2025.

In the third grade Chris clearly knew her gift and passion for art. For Christmas that year her Grandma Bert bought her first set of acrylic paints, canvases and brushes. Space was made in the basement at home and work began. In high school, Christ took every opportunity for art including art camps at University of Kansas. Her work flourished and she committed to becoming an artist, earning a Master’s degree at University of Iowa.

“Growing up in the heartland, one can’t help but influenced by Grant Wood and the rolling countryside that inspired him,” according to Chris. Nature always being her favorite art subject, she has traveled to State and National Parks to capture it all with a camera in hand. “Hiking breathes life into me and my work,” providing her with inspiration from the full experience and feeling of her surroundings. She paints with the intent to tell it all.

“This is my mission … tell the story of a place and a moment in time… and to tell it in paint”

The FMAAA Art Center is open Tuesdays - Saturdays from 10am to 5pm.