For the past 15 years, Fargo photographer Scott Seiler has been deeply involved in the local arts community, and his latest project combines everyday objects with the beauty of nature in an unexpected way. While his new work might suggest he's ready to slow down, Seiler is actually busier than ever with his creative endeavors.

"These days, I keep a travel companion in my car. I call it 'have chair, will travel,'" Seiler explained. His innovative photo exhibit represents a landscape experiment that merges an ordinary household object – a chair – with the natural environment around North Dakota and Minnesota.

Two of Seiler's chair photographs will be featured in The Art of Giving (TAG) auction event taking place in Grand Forks on September 19. This year's event showcases artworks from more than 350 artists, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Grand Forks Children's Museum.

Seiler's chair-meets-landscape experiment also brings a touch of nostalgia to his work. "During cleanup week last spring, I picked up an old-fashioned chair like my grandmother's had," he said. "So I decided to bring it along on my next photo road trip." The results have been both surprising and rewarding, creating what Seiler describes as a two-fold visual experience.

"People notice the chair first, and then their eyes are drawn to the vibrant sunflower fields in full bloom or the golden waves of wheat ready for harvest," Seiler observed. He hopes viewers will see the photos as an invitation to rest their minds and reflect on life's simple pleasures.

"I believe the photos can stir a memory or a need for reflection that can be hard to come by these days," Seiler added. "Resting one's brain can be powerful." While photography isn't his full-time job, it has certainly helped shape his career in marketing and communications. He currently works as the marketing manager at Razor Tracking, where he uses his visual skills for digital media and design.

Beyond his artistic pursuits, Seiler has established himself as the ultimate local art supporter. He has served on the board of directors for several organizations, including The Arts Partnership, Fargo Moorhead Visual Artists, Fargo Marathon, and Great Plains Food Bank. "Supporting local art groups is important to me because I learn so much by attending their events, performances and connecting with other artists and art supporters," Seiler explained.

"These experiences inspire me creatively and remind me of the vital role the arts play in our local economy and in uplifting the work of fellow artists," he continued. Seiler is a member artist at Gallery 4 in Downtown Fargo and currently has work displayed at Red Door Art Gallery in Wahpeton and the Bismarck Downtown Artist Cooperative in Bismarck.

Seiler also participates in ArtWORKS, a program of The Arts Partnership that provides venues such as bank lobbies, restaurants, and libraries with rotating exhibits of art. "I participate in art shows throughout the year and will display some of my newer pieces for customers at Gallery 4 as well," he said, expressing hopes of traveling around North Dakota and Minnesota to showcase his landscape-with-chair series.

Reflecting on the local arts scene, Seiler said he enjoys seeing how the community has evolved and grown over the years. He believes one of the best ways the community can support local arts is through direct engagement and purchases. "Every local purchase helps keep creativity alive and thriving in our own backyard," he emphasized, encouraging people to buy tickets to performances or purchase original artwork rather than spending money on mass-produced items online.