EB at Merle Hay Mall

Sword and Sorcery Art Exhibition
Sword and sorcery is a subgenre of fantasy fiction featuring rugged, sword-wielding heroes in personal, visceral adventures. Unlike high fantasy, it focuses on intimate stakes—like survival, gold, or revenge—rather than saving the entire world, and treats magic as a dark, dangerous force wielded mostly by villains
Core Characteristics
Low Stakes: Stories center on personal conflicts, heists, or vendettas instead of global catastrophes.
Morally Gray Heroes: Protagonists are often mercenaries, thieves, or outcasts rather than noble knights.
Dangerous Magic: Sorcery is rare, mysterious, and corrupting, usually belonging to evil wizards or ancient monsters.
Fast-Paced & Episodic: Tales are typically punchy short stories or novellas focusing on action and atmospheric grit.
Iconic Works and Creators
Robert E. Howard: Created the genre in the 1930s with Conan the Barbarian.
Fritz Leiber: Coined the term "sword and sorcery" and wrote the tales of Fafhrd and the Gray Mouser.
Michael Moorcock: Introduced the tragic, soul-eating-sword-wielding antihero Elric of Melniboné
The show will be on
Friday December 11th 430p to 7p
Saturday December 12th 1030a to 7p
Free Admission
Featuring amazing artists from around Iowa.
Art of all kinds, 3D, 2D, wall art and handmade items.
Artists in the show!
Dean Sturtevant
Adam Blair
Stephanie Ver Steeg
Autumn Klootwyk
Sam Rudolph
Crystal Waldron
Browse and admire a diverse collection of artwork dedicated to Sword and Sorcery designed entirely by homegrown regional artists.
Meet the creators, chat with fellow art lovers, and support the local cultural scene right in the heart of the historic Merle Hay Mall.
Located at EB within the mall, offering plenty of parking and a comfortable, climate-controlled indoor space to enjoy the show.

This month is a wonderful time to celebrate love, diversity, and the power of self-expression. We love showcasing creators’ collections, providing a platform for unique voices and artistic expressions. Whether you're exploring vibrant apparel, thoughtful accessories, or meaningful art, we offer a more inclusive and supportive community. Here’s to celebrating all identities and spreading love and acceptance throughout the month and beyond!
~ And if you are a creator who is currently looking for a place to showcase your art stop in and lets chat! We are always looking for cool artists.

🎡 IOWA STATE FAIR GIVEAWAY! 🎟️💵

It’s been a while since I’ve done a giveaway, and what better time than right before the Iowa State Fair!

One lucky winner will receive:
🎟️ 2 Iowa State Fair tickets
👕 2 Iowa State Fair swag bags with custom T-Shirts, Keychains, snacks and more!

Here’s how to enter (one entry):
✅ Like this post
✅ Follow my page
✅ Tag a friend you’ll take to the fair

🌽 Bonus Entry: Comment your favorite fair food!

🏆 Winner will be announced on August 7th.

Good luck, and thank you for all your support! I can’t wait to send one lucky winner to enjoy a great day at our Iowa State Fair! 🎠🌭🍋

🙃PLEASE HIT THE SHARE BUTTON 🙂

Running around today???
We would love to see you when you are out and about!!!

We are Slinging the rites everyday.

Hours:
Monday-Saturday 11-7pm
Sunday NOON-5pm

Maid-Rite inside Merle Hay Mall’s local eats food hall/food court

Come out and see us!!!

DON’T FORGET YOUR MAID RITES!!!!!

—————>PLEASE SHARE