PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

I Spy Walter Wick’s Hidden Wonders at the Figge Art Museum

Davenport, Iowa (July 2, 2024) – Get ready to take a mesmerizing journey through the imaginative world of Walter Wick, the renowned photographic illustrator behind the I Spy children’s book series. A selection of his fascinating works will be on view at the Figge Art Museum beginning July 6.

Walter Wick: Hidden Wonders! is the most extensive traveling retrospective of Wick’s work to date, celebrating over 50 years of his innovative artistry. Inspired by his latest book, the exhibition explores themes that have captivated Wick throughout his career, including Miniature Worlds, Floor Games, Craft-Built Worlds, Optical Illusions, I Spy Games, Puzzle Challenges, Wonders of Science, Connecticut Woods and Curiosity Shop.

Visitors will experience Wick’s iconic images, including never-before-seen works, alongside numerous three-dimensional models used to create his photographs. Five decades of Wick’s creativity will take center stage making this a must-see exhibition for art lovers of any age. 

“Walter Wick’s photographs have a unique ability to ignite childlike imagination and curiosity in viewers regardless of their age,” said Figge Senior Co-Curator Joshua Johnson. “This exhibition not only showcases his incredible technical ability and creativity as a photographer but also invites visitors to explore and engage with the intricate magical worlds he creates. We are thrilled for the community to experience this fun exhibition.”

Organized by the New Britain Museum of American Art, New Britain, Connecticut in partnership with the artist, Walter Wick, Walter Wick: Hidden Wonders! is made possible by The Saunders Foundation and the Cheryl Chase and Stuart Bear Family Foundation. 

Locally sponsored by Iowa Tourism Office and Iowa Arts Council, both part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, Tyson Foods, MidAmerican Energy Company, Rhythm City Casino, Sears Seating, Modern Woodman of America. The program sponsor is Whitey’s ice Cream and media sponsor is B100 the Quad Cities #1 Hit Music Station. Walter Wick: Hidden Wonders! will be on view through November 17, 2024.

About Walter Wick:
Walter Wick began his artistic journey as a landscape photographer before delving into studio photography. His fascination with the technical aspects of the medium led him to explore and master techniques such as mirrors, long exposures, and photo composites. This passion for manipulating processes and perceptions has fueled a prolific career spanning over three decades. Since the release of I Spy: A Book of Picture Riddles, Wick has published more than 26 children's books, each showcasing his unique ability to blend creativity with technical prowess.

Companion Programming: 
Walter Wick Exclusive Member Reception
Wednesday, July 17, 5-7 p.m.

Artist Talk for Families: Walter Wick
Thursday, July 18, 6:30 p.m.

Highlights Tour Night: Walter Wick: Hidden Wonders!
Thursday, July 25, 6 p.m.

About the Figge Art Museum:
The Figge Art Museum is dedicated to bringing art and people together. Located on the Mississippi River in downtown Davenport at 225 West Second Street, the Figge is the premier art exhibition and education facility between Chicago and Des Moines. Its landmark glass building, designed by British architect David Chipperfield, is home to one of the Midwest’s finest art collections and presents world-class exhibitions, art classes, lectures and special events that attract visitors of all ages. Museum hours are 10 a.m.­­-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays; and 12-5 p.m. on Sundays. Reservations are not required but can be made at www.figgeartmuseum.org or by calling 563-345-6632. Admission to the museum is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors and students with ID and $8 children ages 4-12. Admission is free to children under 4, Figge members, institutional members and to all on Thursday evenings. You can become a member for as little as $50 by visiting the Figge website. To contact the museum, please call 563.326.7804, or visit www.figgeartmuseum.org. 

 –END–