Melissa Gordon’s “Take a Walk in the Badlands of North Dakota” Exhibit Captivates at BSC

Bismarck State College’s latest art exhibit, Take a Walk in the Badlands of North Dakota, showcases the vibrant gouache illustrations of acclaimed local artist Melissa Gordon. Displayed in the college gallery, these original works bring to life the pages of a children’s book of the same name, written by wildlife scientist and educator Sherry Niesar. The collaboration between these two North Dakota natives celebrates the rugged beauty and ecological wonders of the Badlands, inviting viewers of all ages to explore the region’s unique flora, fauna, and landscapes through art and education.

Melissa Gordon, a lifelong artist, has been a prominent figure in North Dakota’s art scene since selling her first commissioned work at age 12. Known for her realistic renderings, Gordon’s portfolio spans private collections across the country and large-scale public works around the Bismarck-Mandan area. Her mural of Sitting Bull in Alley 5.5, featured on the cover of Parade Magazine, is a testament to her ability to capture cultural and historical significance. Other notable projects include the Heritage of Art Tunnel, Beauty at a Glance, and installations at Bismarck Veteran’s Memorial Library, the Department of Trust Lands, North Dakota League of Cities, and Mary Stark Elementary School.

With a career that blends fine art, illustration, and community engagement, Gordon’s accolades are numerous. In 2021, she received the North Dakota Governor’s Individual Achievement Award for the Arts, presented by Governor Doug Burgum. She also earned the 2016 Citation Award from Bismarck Arts and Galleries and has secured multiple Best of Show awards. Beyond her studio work, Gordon is a dedicated educator, teaching art to diverse groups—from kindergarteners to seniors—with a particular focus on at-risk communities. Her commitment to the arts extends to leadership roles, including as a founding member of the Bismarck Downtown Artists Cooperative and a board member for the Mandan Art Association, Dakota West Arts Council, and BSC Alumni Board. Appointed to the North Dakota Council of the Arts in 2015 by Governor Jack Dalrymple, Gordon also volunteers with organizations like Special Olympics, Papa’s Pumpkin Patch, and Arts For All.

The Take a Walk in the Badlands of North Dakota exhibit is a visual journey inspired by Niesar’s book, which distills the natural world into accessible, engaging lessons. Gordon’s illustrations feature a charming owl who guides viewers through the Badlands, sharing fascinating facts about its ecosystem. For example, visitors learn that ponderosa pines grow naturally only along the Little Missouri River in North Dakota, or that golden eagles can dive at speeds up to 100 miles per hour. The paintings highlight the region’s biodiversity—badgers, prairie rattlesnakes, prairie dogs, and four deer species (mule deer, white-tailed deer, elk, and moose)—while offering practical advice like wearing sturdy shoes and carrying a map.

This collaboration between Gordon and Niesar, both passionate North Dakotans, reflects their shared love for nature and education. Niesar, a wildlife scientist, brings her expertise to the project, weaving scientific insights into the narrative, while Gordon’s vivid illustrations make the Badlands’ rugged landscapes and creatures leap off the page. The exhibit not only showcases Gordon’s artistic prowess but also serves as an educational tool, inviting visitors to appreciate the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Take a Walk in the Badlands of North Dakota is a must-see for art lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the wild beauty of our state. The exhibit runs until this Friday at the BSC gallery, offering a perfect blend of art, science, and storytelling. Don’t miss the chance to experience Melissa Gordon’s stunning work and take a walk through the Badlands without leaving campus.