Artist Bios
It takes imagination, creativity, and a whole lot of artistic talent to turn ordinary straw bales into extraordinary works of art! Each year, talented artists from near and far bring their unique styles and personalities to Shipshewana, creating the giant straw bale sculptures that have become a favorite part of the Autumn Adventure experience.
From painting and murals to pottery, sculpture, stenciling, and more, every artist brings a different perspective and creative touch to the trail. Their work transforms the countryside into an outdoor gallery where families can slow down, explore, and enjoy a little unexpected art around every corner.
We’re proud to showcase the talented artists who make the Straw Bale Art Trail possible. Take a moment to get to know the creators behind the art and discover the stories, inspirations, and creativity that make each piece one-of-a-kind.
Desirée Beauchamp
Desirée Beauchamp Boucher is a local artist who was raised in Elkhart County. She attended the Herron School of Art and Design in Indianapolis for four years and later graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in a double concentration of Sculpting and Printmaking.
Desirée returned to Elkhart County, settling in Middlebury with her family about 15 years ago. During her time in Middlebury she has been very actively invested in the community. In the past she has taught art at the Boys and Girls Club, served on the Middlebury Arts Council, the Little Big Idea Grant board and an assortment of other volunteer activities. Currently she is the Editor in Chief for In Middlebury Magazine and a Middlebury Public Library board member.
Desirée’s philosophy in art and life is to bring delight, joy and love to those around her through whimsy and acts of kindness. She hopes the work she has completed for this project brings a smile to your face.
Contact Info: (574) 358-0125
Josh Cooper
Josh was born in Chicago, Illinois, grew up doing graffiti, moved to Goshen in 1995 and started building a art carrier. Josh currently runs a crystal and art shop called Hive of Light with his wife Debi in Downtown Goshen, Indiana. Josh has been creating art for 25 years. His last artistic projects were; Goshen Rocks, Mural at Elephant Barn in Goshen, and Mural at the Elkhart Visitors Center.
Contact info: (574) 202-6497 or [email protected]
Annette L. Jones
“From a young age, my passion for art has been a constant companion. Exploring mediums like painting and papier mâché’ sparked my creativity, but it was pottery that truly captured my heart. For over three decades, I’ve immersed myself in the art of pottery, finding joy and fulfillment in shaping clay into expressive forms. My journey in art led me to share my knowledge and passion as a teacher at the Elkhart Art League, where I’ve had the privilege of nurturing budding artists and fostering creativity in others. Recently, my artistic path has taken an exciting turn towards mural painting. The opportunity to create large-scale artworks that transform spaces has been incredibly inspiring and fulfilling. Additionally, I’ve ventured into hosting mobile painting parties, where I guide groups through the process of creating their own masterpieces, fostering a sense of joy and accomplishment in each participant. Through my art, whether in pottery, murals, or teaching, I aim to evoke emotions, spark creativity, and leave a lasting impression on those who encounter my work.”
Company Name: A.N.A Wood N Clay LLC.
Years as an Artist: 30 years
Contact Info: (765) 273-0234 or [email protected]
Marla Miller
Marla lives in Shipshewana and is an Amish handcrafted artisan. She has always drawn and started painting at the age of 18. She’s now 35. She started selling her art in a local Shipshewana store in 2019 and the owner pushed her to do festivals, events, and art shows which she really enjoys doing now. She sells her original art at an average of 10 shows a year. She uses acrylic paints and loves to paint nature, animals, and scenery but has also painted a large mural for the Town of Nappanee. She also sells her reprints. Marla says she and her family are very thankful for all the blessings they have received thru art.
Company Name: Hand in Hand Art
Contact info: 260-585-2542
Contact Info: [email protected]
Zac Nogood
A stencil artist from North Webster Indiana, Zac paints on everything from clothes to cars, hay bails, and more!
Contact: 260-361-0429
Amy Psinas
Amy is a retired high school art teacher from Pekin, Illinois and is a longtime vendor at the Shipshewana Flea Market. She has been married for 35 years, has 3 grown daughters, and 4 grandchildren. She has been creating art her whole life. Amy’s past artistic projects include the “Riding the Pumpkinvine” mural at Trail Riders, the IN Indiana Grant 40 foot mural “Shipshewana” located in the Flea Market, as well as 50 other mural projects during her teaching career.
Contact Info: (309) 360-3323 or [email protected]