Museum News March 23, 2026

One of the most endearing qualities of fiber artist and instructor Marsha Jensen—beyond her incredible talent—is her deep love for the plains. Growing up in Nebraska, she is a proud product of the Great Plains, and as a fiber artist, she actively incorporates natural fibers such as native grasses from this region into her work.

Since 2022, the Hansen Museum has welcomed Marsha to teach basket weaving and needle felting classes. Marsha resides in Manhattan, Kansas, which is still part of the Great Plains region, but she dearly loves coming to Logan because it reminds her of her childhood stomping grounds. When speaking to her friends in eastern Kansas about her trips to the Hansen Museum, she enthusiastically shares that great things are happening out here on the “prairie.” Her description of the Museum as being on the prairie feels like a warm embrace—quaint, inviting, and full of life.

Last Saturday, Marsha introduced five participants to the art of needle felting, a fiber art technique that uses a barbed needle to interlock and compress wool fibers into a solid, sculpted form. Unlike traditional wet felting, which relies on water and agitation, needle felting is a dry process that allows for precise control and intricate detail. The technique can be used to create a variety of items, including small animal sculptures, decorative figures, and even jewelry. During the class, participants began with simple shapes before progressing to a landscape piece.

One of the most appealing aspects of needle felting is its accessibility for beginners while still offering opportunities for growth and creativity. Each participant received a basic supply kit containing wool roving, felting needles, and a foam pad to use as a work surface. Photos from the class, showcasing the beautiful works created under Marsha’s guidance, can be found on the Hansen Museum Facebook page. Keep an eye out—Marsha will be returning to the prairie to teach again.

Currently on display at the Hansen Museum is SPECTACLE, an exhibition from the National Geographic Society that explores the power of visual storytelling. Featuring striking imagery and compelling narratives, the exhibition invites visitors to consider how we experience the world through sight—how color, scale, and perspective can shape our understanding and spark curiosity. SPECTACLE offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages and is a must-see during your next visit to the Museum.

The Museum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday and holidays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The Museum is fully handicap accessible, and admission is always free, thanks to the generous support of the Dane G. Hansen Foundation.

For more information, please contact us at 785-689-4846. We look forward to welcoming you to the Museum!