Description

Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject

The Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament by P. Buckley Moss is a numbered, limited edition porcelain ornament that warmly honors one of America’s most beloved traditions: the Iowa State Fair. Moss captures the energy, nostalgia, and community spirit of fair season through a richly colored scene filled with familiar landmarks, joyful details, and the comforting warmth of late-summer tones. Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament features the iconic fairgrounds architecture—arched windows, brick structures, and the recognizable layout that evokes the proud history of this nationally treasured event. With its golden-orange palette, the artwork radiates the glow of a long fair day, recalling the mingled scents of warm food, hay, and excitement drifting across the grounds.

In the foreground, a gentle cow turns toward the viewer, its expression calm and welcoming. This small but significant detail symbolizes the agricultural heart of the Iowa State Fair—livestock, farm heritage, and the state’s deep connection to rural life. The pumpkins resting nearby further connect the scene to harvest time, reinforcing the fair’s classic blend of celebration and season. To the right, colorful tents rise in the background, hinting at exhibitions, food vendors, and festive attractions waiting to be explored. Flags wave above the buildings, and subtle bursts of green from surrounding trees help balance the warm tones that dominate the composition. Moss’s interpretation invites viewers to remember childhood fair visits, family outings, and the timeless thrill of wandering through the exhibits with laughter in the air. As part of both the Moss Ornament Collection and the Moss Historic Collection, this ornament stands as a tribute to heritage, community traditions, and the enduring joy of the Iowa State Fair.

Style & Technique

Rendered in Moss’s signature combination of refined linework and soft atmospheric texture, Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament blends whimsy with historical reverence. The fairground buildings are drawn with architectural clarity, their layered brickwork and grand entry arches portrayed with respect for their history. The warm, golden-orange tones that envelop the entire composition create a sense of sunlight, warmth, and glowing memory. Moss uses gentle shading and soft transitions to evoke both the dry dust of late-summer grounds and the lush foliage that frames the fair’s pathways. The cow in the foreground is depicted with light, expressive strokes that give it personality and presence, while the pumpkins and tents add a touch of playful charm.

The circular porcelain surface complements Moss’s design by offering a cameo-like view into the heart of the fairgrounds. The ornament feels both nostalgic and alive, its colors and details blending seamlessly to preserve the essence of a cherished American tradition.

Mood & Inspiration

The mood of the Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament is warm, nostalgic, and deeply rooted in community spirit. Moss captures the rich history of the fair while honoring the families, farmers, exhibitors, and visitors who make it a beloved institution year after year. Her inspiration stems from the fair’s ability to unite people through agriculture, art, tradition, and shared experience. The ornament invites viewers to reconnect with memories of wandering the grounds, admiring livestock, enjoying food stands, and feeling the excitement of summer celebration.

Placement & Gift Ideas

Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament is perfect for hanging on a Christmas tree using the included cord, or displayed year-round on a tiny easel purchased separately. Its warm colors and nostalgic subject matter make it ideal for living rooms, office shelves, kitchen displays, or anywhere that honors Midwestern culture and family tradition. The Remembering The Iowa State Fair Ornament is a meaningful gift for Moss collectors, Iowa families, fair enthusiasts, agricultural lovers, and anyone who treasures memories of community gatherings and heritage-rich events. It also makes a thoughtful keepsake for birthdays, reunions, retirements, or holidays celebrating home and tradition.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

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💡 Fun Fact: The Iowa State Fair is one of the oldest and largest state fairs in the United States, first held in 1854. It is famously known for its butter sculptures, grand livestock competitions, and vibrant agricultural showcases.

🖼️ Collector’s Insight: Collectors of the Moss Historic Collection appreciate this ornament for its heartfelt tribute to a cherished cultural tradition. The blend of iconic fairground architecture, warm harvest colors, and Moss’s gentle storytelling make this piece an especially meaningful addition for those who value Americana and historic landmarks.

2009

Size: 3-5/16 inches diameter.

Any number of ornaments ship for the flat rate of $12.60

🎁 Available through Canada Goose Gallery in Waynesville, Ohio — your trusted source for the art of P. Buckley Moss.