Photographer Britton Hacke is gearing up for Sioux City's annual ArtSplash festival.
"I've been going to this since I was a kid. I think it's in its 29th year this year," he said. "And I'm 42."
Hacke is this year's featured artist, chosen from a group of more than 60.
"We have artists from all over the region and all over the United States applied to be in it," he said. "So, it’s a big deal, I think."
Hacke's photography highlights the landmarks of Sioux City, from historic buildings to the War Eagle Monument.
“Growing up here, I've heard a lot of negative stuff about Sioux City, and of course, online," he said. "I try to challenge that and challenge people's view of society and try to show it in a better light."
He said he loves to change people's minds about the city.
"Some people tend to view it in a negative light," he said. "I like to try to challenge myself to change the perception of Sioux City because I think it's a beautiful town, and we have beautiful people here."
"I like to try to challenge myself to change the perception of Sioux City because I think it's a beautiful town, and we have beautiful people here."- Britton Hacke, Sioux City Photographer
In addition to the Sioux City's landmarks, Hacke also documents the lives of the people who occupy the town. Part of his perspective is photography that humanizes people experiencing homelessness. He often donates money to a local shelter through print sales, including one he plans to feature during ArtSplash.
“You know, actually, I've had people tell me it's it looks kind of like a Norman Rockwell painting," Hacke said. "There's this homeless gentleman sitting next to an interstate, and he's got a sign that says 'We're gonna make it,' and he's holding up the peace sign, and he just — he looks very joyful."
Hacke is selling limited-edition prints at the festival. He says $50 of each purchase will go directly to Sioux City's Warming Shelter, which serves the city's homeless population.
ArtSplash takes place Saturday and Sunday in downtown Sioux City, with temperatures projected to reach 100 degrees. Hacke says the festival has moved around a few times over the years, landing downtown just last year.
"Personally, I think the downtown has grown in the last ten years, and I see it getting better and better every day," he said. “I just would love to see as many people as possible come out and support this great, free, local event. It's not just local artists."
When visitors come for the art festival, Hacke says he hopes they explore other parts of the city, too.
"They can go down to our new Riverfront park and hit the splash pad down there — they got a really cool splash pad," he said. "I might head down there after the fest myself."
