By Jennifer Stultz
Tri-County Tribune Editor
jstultz@cherryroad.com

Special piece on display with Christ Cathedral Lent exhibit

Dick Bixler of Pratt creates art from metal that means something to him. A recent piece, Jesus Stills the Storm, has been selected to be displayed as part of a “Miracles” exhibit at Christ Cathedral, downtown Salina, through April 18. His metal welded sculpture is part of an annual pre-Easter art exhibit that featured 14 regional artists this year, included fellow Prattan Amy Clarkson.

For Bixler, being included in this exhibit is a great honor and humbling, for a man who said he is influenced in his art by his background in farming, ranching, education, and the faithful guidance of his parents, long gone.

“Everything this sculpture represents has been around for centuries,” he said. “We cannot stop or control the storms in life. The objective of this sculpture is to show that through the illustrations and Bible reading, we can all find peace, love, and forgiveness through Jesus and remember that Jesus Stills the Storm.

Bixler, who has served on the board of directors for the Vernon Filley Art Museum in Pratt and volunteers time helping with artist displays and special programming there, said that his own art became an expression of turning to God and finding solace. He wants to share that with others.

“All of us encounter storms as we go through life,” Bixler said. “Some of our storms are filled with challenges like grief, anger, fear, doubt, lies, ill health, deceit, judgment, and denial. Art can help us heal.”

The Lenten-season “Miracles” exhibit in Salina, includes art pieces ranging from two-dimensional painting to sculpture, all from artists whose faith backgrounds have influenced their works.

Co-chair of the exhibit, Steve Hoffman, said that many of the artists have spoken about how personal their works are, and that the pieces became extensions of some very personal place inside them.

“Some weren’t sure they had enough skill to show emotionally-charged work in public, especially in a church where there already may be an expectation that any art there is going to be important or meaningful. I think viewers will approach the art differently,” Hoffman said.

Artists from Salina, Chapman, Lincoln, Centralia, and Pratt were invited to be part of the 2025 show. Each artist donated their time and effort to create their exhibit piece without any compensation.

Christ Cathedral is “the church in the heart of the city, with a heart for the city,” according to event hosts. Established in 1906, the Cathedral is the largest, most active congregation in the Episcopal Diocese of Western Kansas that stretches from Salina to the Colorado border.

Christ Cathedral houses a Montessori School, leads the Welcome Table daily lunch program provided at Salina Grace, and offers educational and social programs including Bible studies, Book Clubs and more. For additional information or to schedule a time to meet with Mo. Shay Craig, call 785-827-4440 or visit christcathedralsalina.org.

Bixler’s art is also showcased at his own personal gallery, Bixler’s Art Barn, located at 20011 SE 20th Avenue Pratt, Kansas. He regularly provides art tours, hosts local community events, and even gives welding classes at that location. Bixler’s Art Barn is also a VRBO listing for those looking for a quiet place to stay for a night or two in a pastoral setting.