ELLSWORTH — The Ellsworth Public Library will present “Love This Driftless Landscape of Guitar,” a special posthumous exhibition celebrating the art and legacy of Bruce Hecksel, Nov. 2, 2026, through Jan. 5, 2027. Curated by his wife, Julie Hecksel, the exhibit honors an internationally touring musician and visual artist whose vibrant paintings reflected his creativity, joy and deep connection to the Driftless Region.

The public is invited to an artist reception from 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5. Rather than a traditional artist talk, Julie Patchouli Hecksel will share a few words in honor of her beloved husband and perform live music from Patchouli. The evening offers an opportunity for the community to celebrate Bruce’s life, artistic vision and lasting contributions to the local arts community.

Based in Maiden Rock, Bruce Hecksel was an internationally recognized visual artist, producer and musician. Over his 30-year musical career, he performed more than 5,000 concerts with Julie in their two bands, Patchouli and Terra Guitarra. The duo performed at several summer concerts sponsored by the Ellsworth Public Library, building a connection with the community that continues through this exhibition.

Hecksel’s paintings are known for their vibrant colors, rich textures and distinctive neoimpressionist style. Working primarily in acrylic on canvas and wood, he developed imaginative guitar-shaped landscapes alongside expressive works inspired by nature, emotion and the world around him. His art was exhibited throughout the United States and internationally, including in the United Kingdom and China.

The Ellsworth Public Library exhibition will feature three bodies of work that showcase different aspects of his artistic vision: Terra Guitarra, Love This, and Driftless Impressions and Abstracts.

His signature Terra Guitarra® style transforms familiar elements of nature into guitar-shaped trees, mountains, rivers, lakes, clouds and birds. Using layered textures and vivid, stained-glass-like colors, Hecksel sought to express the harmony connecting all things. His “Love This” series, which emerged in 2013, features recurring heart imagery and encourages viewers to approach the world with love, compassion and an appreciation for our shared humanity. His Driftless Impressions and Abstracts explore nature, color and emotion through expressive compositions that invite personal reflection.

Bruce Hecksel passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, from complications following a stroke, after a three-year battle with cancer. His generosity of spirit and joyful outlook remain present in the paintings featured in this special exhibition. Through his art and music, he leaves a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift.

To explore more of Hecksel’s original paintings, visit the Terra Guitarra Fine Art Gallery & Studio on the Great River Road in Maiden Rock, , or visit www.patchouli.net.

The exhibition is free and open to the public during regular library hours. Community members are encouraged to visit the Ellsworth Public Library to experience this celebration of art, music, love and the Driftless landscape.

Submitted by Ellsworth Public Library