Gina Westergard’s close connection to the land and its rhythms of inevitable change have inspired the functional and symbolic funerary urns she creates.  Her works are characterized by rich surface textures and vibrant colors that result in contemplative objects that initiate a celebration of life.

Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally for over 20 years in venues in Germany, Australia, Finland and throughout the United States.

Reviews of her work in Metalsmith magazine include “Discoveries Within,” Summer 2000; “Intimate Assemblages,” Summer 1997; and “Gina Westergard, The Point of Balance — Pendants and Sculptural Displays,” Spring 1994.  Her work was selected for the 2014 and 2009 Metalsmith Exhibition in Print and the American Craft Portfolio Review, April/May 1997.  Her funerary urns appear in 500 Vessels, Contemporary Explorations of Containment, published by Lark Books.

Awards and grants include a Mid-American Art Alliance/NEA Fellowship; several jurors awards; three General Research Fund and four Hallmark Enhancement grants from the University of Kansas.

In addition to her teaching in the metals program Gina is currently Associate Chair in the Department of Visual Art and has in the past served as Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies and Director of Graduate Studies.  She received her M.F.A. from Indiana University, Bloomington, in 1991 and completed her B.A. at San Diego State University in 1988.