Vilsacks, Pederson Honored at Official Portrait Ceremony

Nearly every Iowa governor has his portrait commissioned when his time in office comes to an end.  But Governor Vilsack saw both Lt. Governor Sally Pederson and First Lady Christie Vilsack as key partners in his administration and legacy, so he chose to commission their portraits as well.

The portraits were unveiled at a special ceremony Monday, January 8, at the State Historical Building with introductions and comments by Anita Walker, director of the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs.

Three Iowa artists were chosen to create the portraits based on their ability, experience and technique.

Charles Freitag of Marion painted Governor Vilsack’s portrait. A native Iowan, Freitag was born and raised on a small farm. His upbringing gave him a deep appreciation for his natural surroundings which is evidenced in his paintings. Freitag graduated from the Academy of Art in Chicago.

Lt. Governor Pederson’s portrait was created by Mary Muller of Des Moines. Muller is originally from Evanston, and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in art from Principia College in Elsah, Illinois. Muller taught at the Des Moines Art Center for twenty years, and still teaches at the Iowa Correctional Institution for Women in Mitchellville. Muller has painted many portraits, including the official portrait of former Iowa Governor Terry Branstad.

Barb Prall created the portrait of First Lady Christie Vilsack. Prall is an award winning artist specializing in two-dimensional media. She lives in Marion, where she is the owner of Barb’s Fine Art Gallery and Studio.  Prall has a Bachelor of Arts degree, and has completed more than 40 hours of graduate work.

The Governor’s official portrait will be displayed at the Governors of Iowa exhibit currently showing at the State Historical Building. Lt. Governor Pederson’s portrait will reside at Iowa State University, and the First Lady’s portrait will be displayed at the State Library of Iowa.