Remembering Gary Kelley: The Artist Behind Iconic Hall of Laureates Artwork

The World Food Prize Foundation extends its deepest sympathies to the family of artist Gary Kelley, who passed away on April 12, 2026.

The Foundation was honored to commission three works by Kelley, two of which are currently on display in the Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn Iowa Gallery. Among them are a portrait of Jessie Field Shambaugh-whose Corn Clubs and Home Clubs helped lay the foundation for 4-H-and Pantheon of Iowa Heroes, a large-scale mural depicting four of Iowa's most influential figures in the fight against hunger. Set on the front porch of Norman Borlaug's boyhood home in northeast Iowa, the mural brings together Shambaugh, Herbert Hoover, George Washington Carver, and Henry A. Wallace, with Borlaug standing just beyond-an enduring tribute to Iowa's legacy of leadership in global food security.

A third piece, Borlaug's Boyhood Home, is currently on display in the Foundation's Executive Office.

Kelley's work leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter it. It is an honor to share his work with our visitors and to care for it for future generations.