Perseverance: A Woman’s Journey West Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Melinda Hartline
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Stephanie Adamo
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The James Museum Debuts Perseverance, A Rare Look at the American West Through the Eyes of a Pioneer Woman
Inspired by the 1840s Journal of Frontier Woman Keturah Belknap, Painter Heide Presse Brings Her Oregon Trail Journey to Life
May 20, 2025 – St. Petersburg, Fla. – The James Museum debuts Perseverance: A Woman’s Journey West on June 14, offering a rare look at the American West through the often-overlooked eyes of a pioneer woman. Inspired by the 1840s journal of Keturah Belknap (1820–1913), artist Heide Presse created a collection of vibrant oil paintings and graphite drawings that brings Belknap’s story to life, from her family’s homestead in Iowa to their journey along the Oregon Trail. The exhibition runs from June 14 to September 28. Learn more at thejamesmuseum.org/perseverance.
“By presenting frontier life through a woman’s lens, Perseverance expands the narratives we share in our galleries and deepens our understanding of the human journey to find and define home,” said James Museum Executive Director Robin Nicholson. “We are especially honoured by the addition of an oil painting from the exhibition to our permanent collection, generously gifted to the museum by Heide Presse. The painting, ‘Not an Idle Moment,’ provides a look at the quiet beauty found in daily pioneer life.”
Captivated by Belknap’s journal, Presse embarked on a 10-year journey of her own: following the Oregon Trail and conducting deep historical research of 19th century homestead life. From these experiences, she created more than 20 oil paintings and 40 intricate graphite drawings that honor the grit, grace and understated heroism of women on the frontier.
Blending artwork with period artifacts, and reproduction quilts and a covered wagon, Perseverance explores frontier life. Presse’s realistic paintings feature a rich color palette and striking luminosity as they capture day-to-day pioneer life through the eyes of a woman who lived it.
At the heart of Perseverance is the richly detailed journal of Keturah Belknap. Recognized by her family as a vital historical record, which led to its preservation, the journal offers an intimate glimpse into the everyday moments and emotional weight of her family’s decision to risk everything for a chance at a new beginning. The exhibition is laid out to follow that same path, guiding visitors from their life in Iowa to their eventual home in Oregon.
“The exhibition becomes a personal journey for guests, who are invited to reflect on the strength required for the journey along the Oregon Trail,” said Emily Kapes, Chief Curator of The James Museum. “Presse’s paintings, paired with original journal quotes, prompt us to consider the same hope, sacrifice, uncertainty and perseverance as her subjects.”
Through sentimentalized paintings and drawings, this exhibition draws powerful parallels between past and present, reminding us that the desire to grow, to seek something better and to hold fast to those we love transcends time. Visitors are invited to reflect on how the twists and turns of life shape every journey, some by choice, others by circumstance, and to consider how courage and connection guide us forward.
“Little did I know that discovering Keturah Belknap’s journal would spark a deeply personal journey of my own,” said artist Heide Presse. “As I traced her path, I found myself reflecting on the choices we all face—the risks we take, the changes we embrace, and the ways we push the boundaries of our lives. My greatest hope is that this work not only honors Keturah’s story but also inspires others to reflect on their own and to enjoy their journey, wherever it may lead.”
A series of informative and engaging programs accompanies the exhibition, offering visitors deeper insight into the artwork and its historical context.
Programs include:
MEMBER EXCLUSIVES
June 13 | Perseverance Exhibition Opening Reception
ADULT PROGRAMS
June 14 | A Woman’s Journey West: Artist Conversation with Heide Presse
June 19 | Book Club: Westering Women by Sandra Dallas
June 21 | Curator Tour: Perseverance: A Woman’s Journey West
July 19 | Workshop | Sketchbook Binding & More: Exploring the Landscapes of Our Lives
August 2 | Workshop | Threads of the Past: Introductory Quilting Workshop
August 19 | Sip & See Tour: Perseverance: A Woman’s Journey West
August 26 | Summer Storytelling | The Wel Mel Ti and Elizabeth Markham: Two Sagas of the Oregon Trail
YOUTH & FAMILY
June 14 | Family Day: Journey
Perseverance is the third of four special exhibitions at The James Museum in 2025. The exhibitions allow visitors to encounter extraordinary works of art while exploring the compelling stories and voices behind them. For more information on the 2025 exhibitions and related events, visit thejamesmuseum.org/special-exhibitions and follow the museum on Instagram and Facebook for sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes looks at each exhibition.
Key Takeaways
- A Woman on the Oregon Trail: Perseverance explores the world of Keturah Belknap, a 19th century pioneer woman whose journey west comes vividly to life through the art of acclaimed artist Heide Presse. The exhibition runs from June 14 through September 28.
- Art Meets History: Featuring over 60 works of art—including oil paintings and graphite drawings—Presse’s art is complemented by period artifacts, reproduction quilts and a covered wagon, offering guests a look into frontier life. The exhibition is laid out to follow the Belknap family’s path, guiding visitors from their life in Iowa to their eventual home in Oregon.
- Enjoy Your Own Journey: Just as Presse embarked on a 10-year journey of research and creation, this exhibition invites guests to reflect on how the twists and turns of life shape every transformation, and connects the past and the present to remind us that taking risks defines our path and leads us home.
Members of the media can find photo and video assets here.
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