A set of five Advent and Christmas collages, created by Willmar artist Laura Welle, are the latest additions to Bethel Lutheran Church's extensive collection of original art.
The church, located in downtown Willmar at 411 Becker Ave. S.W., was established in 1891 in the Swedish tradition.
Some of its art reflects this history -- for instance, the church's collection of Swedish folk embroidery, a set of Royal Copenhagen china and antique wood furniture and artifacts.
Bethel also owns an original bronze sculpture by Minnesota sculptor Paul T. Granlund, a collection of European paintings from the 1930s and a religious icon from the Republic of Belarus.
Several art pieces were specifically created by members of Bethel's congregation and are used throughout the year. Fourteen water colors, by Willmar artist Audrey Falk, portray the Stations of the Cross and are displayed during Lent. Artist Mitchell Cory Nelson created a 60-pound Advent wreath that's clad in copper salvaged from the church's old roof.
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The church itself contains one-of-a-kind stained-glass windows and unique architectural features such as its two square towers and a carillon.
For a guided tour of Bethel's art collection, call 320-235-5450.
