Kalona Painter Wins Iowa Heartlanders Art Competition

Paige Flotterud of Painting Paige discusses her award-winning artwork and participation in local art scene.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:00pm

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In part two of a two-part interview, Jennifer Wilkerson speaks with Paige Flotterud, a painter from Kalona, Iowa, about her recent success in an art competition hosted by the Iowa Heartlanders minor league hockey team. Flotterud, who runs the local business Painting Paige, shares details about the inspiration behind her award-winning piece and her involvement in the Kalona art community.

Why it matters

The Iowa Heartlanders art competition highlights the vibrant local art scene in small-town Iowa, providing opportunities for regional artists like Flotterud to showcase their talents and gain recognition. Flotterud's story exemplifies how grassroots artistic initiatives can foster community pride and engagement.

The details

Flotterud entered a painting in the Iowa Heartlanders' annual art competition, which invited local and regional artists to submit original works inspired by the minor league hockey team and its home city of Coralville. Flotterud's piece, titled "Heartlanders Spirit", was selected as the winning entry, earning her a cash prize and the opportunity to have her artwork displayed at the team's home arena.

  • The Iowa Heartlanders art competition took place in early 2026.
  • Flotterud's winning painting, "Heartlanders Spirit", was displayed at the team's home arena throughout the 2026 season.

The players

Paige Flotterud

A painter from Kalona, Iowa who runs the local business Painting Paige.

Iowa Heartlanders

A minor league hockey team based in Coralville, Iowa that hosts an annual art competition for local and regional artists.

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What they’re saying

“I was thrilled and honored to have my work selected as the winner of the Heartlanders art competition. It's a great way for local artists like myself to get our names out there and connect with the community.”

— Paige Flotterud, Painter

What’s next

Flotterud plans to continue participating in local art shows and competitions in the Kalona area, building on the momentum of her Heartlanders win.

The takeaway

The Iowa Heartlanders' art competition demonstrates how minor league sports teams can serve as catalysts for celebrating and elevating the work of regional artists, fostering community pride and engagement through creative initiatives.