Inside the Black Hills Termesphere: Dick Termes on Art, Place, and Perspective

Dick Termes, the visionary behind the Termesphere, was the first artist to collaborate with MOVA Globes—pioneering a completely new form of rotating art. In his latest creation, the Black Hills Termesphere, he returns to his roots, crafting a tribute to the place that has shaped his life and creative journey.

We spoke with Dick to explore how South Dakota’s Black Hills have influenced his work, and what makes his Termesphere Gallery such a unique destination.

How long have you called the Black Hills home?

Dick Termes: I've lived here for nearly 74 years. My parents were based in the Black Hills before relocating to California during WWII for shipyard work—where I was born—but we returned, and I’ve been here ever since. Despite opportunities to move elsewhere, the Black Hills have always been my creative haven.

How has the Black Hills inspired your artwork?

Many of my spherical paintings include imagery from the region, but it’s really about the feeling the Black Hills give me. I feel at ease here, and that sense of calm fuels my creativity. When I’m relaxed, I produce my best work.

Why feature multiple landmarks in the Black Hills Termesphere?

When I think about the Black Hills, it’s impossible to focus on just one place. Iconic locations like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Spearfish Canyon, and the Needles Highway all come to mind. The sphere allows me to bring these elements together into one cohesive piece.

How did you choose which landmarks to include?

After spending a lifetime here, these are simply the images that naturally surface in my mind. They’re instantly recognisable and represent the essence of the region.

What do you hope people take away from this globe?

I hope it inspires people to visit the Black Hills and experience its beauty firsthand. It also serves as a meaningful keepsake—a way to take a piece of that experience home.

The Story Behind the Termesphere Gallery

We built the Termesphere Gallery in 1994 as a dedicated space to showcase my work. Before that, visitors would come to my home by appointment. The gallery is a 36-foot geodesic dome, specifically designed to display spherical art. I also have a second dome studio where I paint—sometimes working on spheres up to seven and a half feet in diameter.

Why a Geodesic Dome?

In 1972, I met Buckminster Fuller, the inventor of the geodesic dome. That experience was transformative. He inspired me to build a dome and helped me see the connection between his architectural concepts and my six-point perspective in spherical painting.

What Makes the Gallery Unique?

The gallery offers an immersive and unexpected experience. Visitors often plan a quick visit but end up staying for hours.

The artwork challenges perception through multi-dimensional perspectives, optical illusions, architectural interiors, and dreamlike imagery. It also features solar-powered MOVA Globes displaying my Termesphere designs.

Plan Your Visit

If you’re travelling through South Dakota’s Black Hills, the Termesphere Gallery is a must-see destination.

1920 Christensen Dr
Spearfish, SD 57783

Experience a completely new way of seeing the world—one sphere at a time. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}