Preserving Grant Wood’s Iowa City Home
Grant Wood’s home and studio is more than a historic site, it is the heartbeat of an artistic legacy that continues to shape how we see beauty, community, and creativity. Within these walls, Wood created, taught, and imagined; it was here that he translated the ordinary into the extraordinary and inspired countless others to do the same. The home reflects his belief that art is not separate from daily life, but an essential part of it: a truth found in the curve of a window, the play of light on a wall, or the quiet rhythm of work done by hand.
The Hayes Foundation is ensuring that this sacred space endures for generations. This work extends beyond preservation—it is also about discovery. Every object, sketch, and tool tells a story about Wood’s creative process and his way of seeing the world. Through a detailed cataloging and conservation initiative, we are documenting and preserving the art, artifacts, and personal belongings that remain inside the home. Each piece will be researched, photographed, and digitally archived, creating a living record accessible to scholars, students, and the public.