Named as the inspiration for the town of Medora, Medora Manca (1856–1921) is more than a namesake — she was an accomplished artist who painted en plein air scenes of the Badlands during her time in Dakota Territory.

While many Bismarck residents know Medora as a destination or tourist name, few may realize the depth of her personal contribution to the cultural and visual history of western North Dakota. This exhibit brings her story to the state capital, making her life and art part of the local conversation here in Bismarck.

The show includes her watercolors, sketches, personal riding gear, and photographs — grounding history in tangible artifacts. The exhibit was launched in late August and will remain in Bismarck through October (before moving on to Medora).

Also tied to the exhibit: a public “Paint Badlands Watercolors” workshop led by local (or regional) artist Paul Noot invites attendees to create their own watercolor interpretations inspired by Medora’s work. In a time period when stories like hers were often sidelined.”
— David Newell, Exhibitions Manager at the ND Heritage Center

• It’s a rare chance for residents to see original works tied to a significant part of North Dakota’s identity — without traveling to Medora or the Badlands.

• The exhibit brings historical stories into urban space, enriching Bismarck’s cultural offerings and making state history more accessible locally.

• Workshops and public programming tied to the exhibit connect the community with hands-on art-making, bridging past and present.
  
  The Medora Manca exhibition in Bismarck is more than a show — it’s a bridge between the capital city and the rugged frontier stories that shaped this state. For local residents, it’s a moment to reclaim a lesser-known figure in North Dakota heritage, to see landscapes through her eyes, and be inspired to explore more of our shared history.