The work ethic of rural Americans stretches beyond fields and businesses into art galleries and museums across the country. In this episode of OUTdrive, Cliff Callis visits with professional artist Doug Freed on his impact on the art culture in the Midwest. Doug is a profound artist, the former head of the State Fair Community College art department and founding director of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art in Sedalia, Missouri.

Doug is represented by galleries in several U.S. cities, including New York City, Boston, Miami, Houston, St. Louis and Kansas City. Doug’s artwork is currently featured in six different Missouri museum collections throughout the state. His skillset has been commissioned by many corporations, including the Federal Reserve Bank in Kansas City, Emerson Electric and Sachs Properties. Proclamations from the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives have recognized him for his profound contributions to the cultural and artistic climate of the state.

Tune in to this episode as Doug takes listeners from his humble beginnings as an elementary art student in small-town Kansas to a solo exhibitor in New York City.

What you'll learn: 

• Doug’s influence on the robust arts culture of rural America
• Community acceptance of the contemporary art scene 
• Founding roots and history of the Daum Museum of Contemporary Art
• Inner workings of artist galleries and exhibitions 
• How the beauty and landscape of rural America influenced Doug’s artistic style 
• Advice for young artists looking to gain exposure in the Midwest