Arts News
NW Star Award is Given to Rebecca Rosenkrans
The NW Star Award is Given to Rebecca Rosenkrans
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce that Rebecca (Becky) Rosenkrans of Roseau received the Northwest Star Award. The award was presented to Rosenkrans on Saturday, April 25 at Warroad RiverPlace in Warroad during the NW Art Exhibit Awards Reception and Program.
Rosenkrans was given the NW Star Award for her jewelry artistry. Rebecca (or Becky) has been creating one-of-a-kind jewelry for over 30 years. Becky handcrafts new pieces of jewelry or recreates old into new with Greek and Italian leather, beads, crafted chain maille, glass, stone, silver, crystal, and vintage goods. She readily shares her knowledge, creativity, and talents and is a tireless advocate for fellow artists. She is the owner of Bead Gypsy, a shop in Roseau where handmade goods and original art from over 20 artists are sold. The store is a haven for artists and arts lovers who live and visit the region.
Originally from Roseau, Rosenkrans grew up in a family of artists, including her mother Frances Karlsson who was a well-known painter from the region. For over 14 years Becky worked with the court system as a Guardian ad Litem. She had always loved jewelry and found that creating it helped her relieve stress and worry from that position. Becky is a self-taught jewelry designer, though she has since taken courses at the Milan Village Art School in silversmithing, precious metal clay, and copper jewelry making. She especially enjoys creating the design and repurposing items. An example of this is when her husband discovered her mom’s copper boiler buried behind the garage. Becky and her siblings bathed in this boiler as toddlers and later used it to soak their clothes before washing as they grew up. After digging up the vessel, Becky flattened it out and created hundreds of pieces of jewelry from it. She admitted, “it was the most fun I’ve had.”
Becky’s jewelry skills are well-known, as is the creativity that goes into making the pieces. Debbie Dahl Aune shared, “Becky creates her own designs; she up-cycles, recycles and ingeniously brings new materials together with vintage to make unique jewelry. She once collected old, galvanized steel from the old, torn down Roseau grain elevator and made earrings.”
In their nomination letter, Tami Osweiler and Sue Carstens shared, “Becky's creations are always one of a kind. Sometimes she makes vintage jewelry into something new and unique. She has been known to cut apart vintage cookie tins and brass containers to create unique earrings. She reshapes old silverware to magically transform into beautiful pendants and bracelets. She has fulfilled many requests from locals to create a new piece from a family heirloom or to restore a broken piece of old jewelry. Becky is deserving of this lifetime artist award not only because of her 30-year history with creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewelry; but also, because she works hard at advocating for other area artists.”
On Becky’s passion and commitment to supporting other artists, Tallie Habstritt and Sheila Winstead explained, “Becky has reached out to painters, glassworkers, woodworkers and others and has encouraged them to display and market their art within her shop. But more than that, her encouragement and enthusiasm for art of all kinds helps others to see the value in the product they have been creating. Her store also provides a space where artists have the opportunity to hear suggestions and feedback from both customers and other artists, which makes it possible for artists to potentially increase their skills and their customer base. Becky also encourages artists to use her store as a place to demonstrate their art. As a bonus, a welcoming atmosphere, a cup of coffee, and a comfortable spot at the table are always a part of Becky’s store. Everyone is truly welcomed and encouraged. Becky is a wonderful example of someone who is an advocate of the arts.”
Becky has advice for aspiring artists. “Just try and if you fail that is ok. Come and ask me and I’ll help you.” About the impact that the arts has on individuals and society, Becky explained, “It’s huge. I gage that from the artists I have in my shop and my own passion. When you have the ability to create and you share with someone else, it is so fulfilling. It gives artists joy and fulfillment to show others and share their creations.”
The NW Star Award comes with $5,000. Artists can only receive it once as a lifetime achievement award. Funding for the Northwest Star comes from The McKnight Foundation. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents.
Congratulations, Becky!
Samantha Harrill is Artist of the Year
Samantha Harrill is Artist of the Year
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce that Samantha Harrill of Warroad is the Northwest Minnesota Artist of the Year for Visual Arts. This award was presented on Saturday, April 25 at Warroad RiverPlace.
Originally from Red Lake Falls, Harrill is a gifted ceramic artist. She studied Design and Art at Bemidji State University. She creates a variety of functional and decorative pottery pieces out of Northern Spruce Studio in downtown Warroad. Samantha’s always been drawn to working with her hands and creating things from scratch.
Pottery clicked for Samantha in a different way than other art forms. She shared, “There’s something about clay that’s grounding and a little unpredictable, and I was drawn to that right away.” She continued, “A surprising fact about me is that I’m a bit of a metalhead. After 20-some years, it’s just part of my process — when I sit down at the wheel, that’s what I listen to. There’s a rhythm to both pottery and metal — it can feel intense and even a little chaotic, but also really grounding and almost hypnotic once you get into it.” Samantha draws inspiration from nature – it’s her biggest influence — “the colors, textures, and quiet simplicity of it. I’m also inspired by potters who focus on craftsmanship and intentional design — artists who let the materials speak for themselves.”
Samantha is the Executive Director of Warroad RiverPlace. In that position, she works tirelessly to affirm and bring the arts to northern Minnesota, while advocating for all art mediums, theater, art workshops for children and adults, music, and cultural and celebration events.
Sherri Kukowski said, “Samantha is a gifted ceramics artist. When the Warroad RiverPlace became more than a dream for the area, Samantha jumped in with her energy and artistic flair. Seeing through the construction phase of the project to the present day, Samantha opened the doors for many local artists to have the experience and exposure of a metro area-type gallery that many could only dream about. With her ability to find artists, mentor them, display their artwork, and host a successful opening for each artist with hundreds in attendance at openings and throughout the length of each artist's show, she has encouraged and broadened all the artists she has touched. In her short tenure at Warroad RiverPlace, she is opening the doors to all mediums. Warroad Summer Theatre has held several events, including a very successful dinner theatre. The classroom is constantly a buzz of artists that Samantha and her team search out to teach art to all ages.”
Owner of Bloomin’ Creations LaRon Hahn said of Samantha’s pottery, “Samantha is a gifted artist with exceptional talent. Her pottery is truly top-notch. Each piece is thoughtfully designed, well-crafted, and finished with great attention to detail. The quality and consistency of her work is exceptional.”
Jenee Provance was the Artistic Director of the first Warroad Summer Theatre production held at RiverPlace. This was during a period of time when Samantha was “multi-tasking” for the facility before she took on the director position. She explained that “Amid her other responsibilities, Samantha always made herself available to our organization as we navigated our way through the growing pains of using a facility, which was a caliber --or 10 -- above what we were used to. Samantha is an amazing human being with drive and determination to showcase the arts in northern Minnesota.”
Harrill gave this advice to aspiring artists, “Be patient with yourself. It takes time to develop your skills and find your voice, and that’s not something you can rush. Don’t be afraid of mistakes — they’re honestly one of the most important parts of the process. Especially in pottery, things don’t always turn out how you expect, and that’s where a lot of the learning happens. I would also say to stay curious and open to trying new things. You don’t have to have everything figured out right away. And most importantly, just keep showing up and doing the work. Consistency matters more than perfection, and over time, that’s what really builds confidence and growth.”
On the impact of the arts on society, she shared “I think art adds meaning to everyday life in a way that people don’t always realize right away. It gives us a way to slow down, to notice things, and to connect — whether that’s with ourselves, with other people, or with the world around us. With pottery specifically, I think it brings that connection into daily routines. It’s not just something you look at — it’s something you hold, use, and live with. A mug, a bowl, a plate — those are things people interact with every single day. There’s something really powerful about that. It turns ordinary moments into something a little more intentional. I think that’s where art has a quiet but lasting impact — it becomes part of people’s lives in a way that feels natural, but still meaningful.”
Our Artist of the Year award can be given to any discipline artist including visual, performing, or creative writing who are emerging or at a mid-way point in their artistic endeavors. It is a cash award of $500. Funding for the Northwest Artist of the Year comes from The McKnight Foundation. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents.
Congratulations, Samantha!
Jane Anderson is Arts Advocate of the Year
Jane Anderson is Arts Advocate of the Year
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce that Jane Anderson of Thief River Falls was awarded the Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year Award for Performing Arts.
Jane is a theater artist – actor, singer, director, costumer -- and former Executive Director and founding member of the Thief River Falls Area Community Theater (TRFACT). Her decades of service, leadership, and advocacy have had a profound impact on area actors and audiences. Jane believes in nurturing young artists for their development and to sustain a vibrant arts community. Her unwavering commitment to the arts and arts education and her extraordinary ability to strengthen and expand the local theater community can be felt throughout our region.
According to current TRFACT Director Megan Maloney, “Jane has been a driving force in the northwestern Minnesota arts community for more than three decades. As a founding member of the Thief River Falls AreaCommunity Theater (TRFACT), she helped shape an organization that has become a cultural anchor in the region. Over the years she has served as president, vice president, treasurer, board member, costumer, director, choreographer, props coordinator, and eventually executive director. Her willingness to step into any role the theater needed reflects a rare level of commitment and has played a central part in the growth and stability of the organization.
In addition to her advocacy and leadership, Jane has remained an active and accomplished theater artist throughout her career. She has performed onstage as an actor, directed numerous productions, and is widely respected for her inventive and thoughtful work as a costumer. Her artistic contributions reflect a deep understanding of storytelling, collaboration, and craft, and her presence consistently elevates the quality of each production. Whether performing, directing, or designing, Jane approaches the work with care,discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Jim and Jan Strandlie worked together with Jane to create TRFACT from the beginning. They shared, “Only Jane could meld a handful of volunteers into a successful acting company! This has been a boon for our community, and we owe this to her expertise in acting, directing, and leadership in holding it all together for so many years. Her love of the arts, her dedication to excellence, her drive to encourage new talent, and her loving friendship with everyone has made this volunteer theater company successful, not to mention the countless hours she herself has dedicated to its success.”
Amy Beckius Johnson explained, “Jane has built spaces where artists feel valued, audiences feel welcome, and creativity is treated as a vital part of community life. Jane believes in people’s potential and meets them where they are. She invites curiosity, cultivates creativity, and ensures there are many ways to participate so that everyone feels valued. She is clear about what she asks of performers, she never lowers the bar but makes it feel possible to reach. She expects excellence, but she also teaches patiently and respects each performer’s individual process. For young people experiencing theater for the first time, she builds excitement and joy and helps them shine. For more experienced performers, she offers guidance, trust, and steady support. Jane Anderson’s decades of service to the region’s arts environment exemplifies the spirit of this award. Her leadership, advocacy, and commitment have had a profound impact on individuals and the broader community.”
Patrick Brickson had the privilege of working alongside Jane for many years through TRFACT, where he served on the Board of Directors. He shared, “I have witnessed Jane’s unwavering commitment to the arts and her extraordinary ability to strengthen, sustain, and expand our local theater community. Jane is, without exaggeration, the heart and soul of TRFACT. Her leadership, creativity, and persistence have kept our organization thriving through both ordinary challenges and extraordinary ones. She has worked tirelessly to secure funding for the theater, often identifying and pursuing grants that many of us would never have known existed. Her dedication has ensured that TRFACT remains accessible, financially stable, and able to offer meaningful artistic opportunities to people of all ages. One of Jane’s most lasting contributions has been the creation and stewardship of our youth programs. Since 2015, she has built and maintained highly successful theater opportunities for both children and teens. These programs have introduced hundreds of young people to the performing arts, giving them a safe, supportive space to grow in confidence, creativity, and community. Many of these young performers continue to participate in TRFACT as they grow older — a testament to the welcoming environment Jane cultivates. Jane creates an environment where performers feel valued, supported, and inspired, and our community is richer for it. Jane Anderson embodies what it means to be an arts advocate. She is a tireless champion for creativity, accessibility, and community engagement.”
When asked what she enjoys about theater, Jane spoke of her appreciation for the community that is created in that space. “The cast and the audience become like family. People being happy to be together. Open the curtains and it’s like magic.” About the impact of the arts, she shared that it is “drastically underestimated and appreciated. The arts filter down to so many people – the kids, the community. They use their talents that they didn’t know they had and then, they grow their talents. The more we do, the more that others connect into it.” Jane’s advice to aspiring artists is “Keep working at it. Even if you don’t have success initially keep honing your talents.”
This award was presented on Saturday, April 25 in Warroad at Warroad RiverPlace University of Minnesota. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents. Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and includes arts from all disciplines. Funding for this award comes from the Minnesota State Legislature.
Congratulations, Jane!
Northwest Minnesota Exhibit and Of the Year Awards Reception and Program was April 25 in Warroad
NW Art Exhibit Awards Reception & Program in Warroad
On Saturday, April 25 the NW Minnesota Arts Council hosted an awards reception and program at Warroad RiverPlace. At 2:30 PM the public was invited to view the annual exhibit, mingle, listen to live music provided by the UND Trio, and enjoy light refreshments. An awards program began at 3:30 PM to present awards to the exhibit winners and Of the Year awardees.
Student and adult artists residing in a seven-county region including Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau and Red Lake had entered into the Northwest Minnesota Art Exhibit and were competing for $2,300 in cash awards. The winners were recognized at the program. It was a wonderful day celebrating these artists and the arts in northwest Minnesota.
Exhibit cash award winners were chosen while the exhibit was on display at Warroad RiverPlace by qualified juror Alice Blessing. Alice Blessing is a socially engaged artist based in Bemidji whose work is deeply informed by principles of intersectional feminism. Over the past two decades, Blessing's portraits have been exhibited in numerous galleries across the state, earning her multiple awards and grants. She is also an experienced educator, having taught at Bemidji State University for 13 years, as well as conducting painting workshops throughout Minnesota. Currently, Blessing serves as Gallery Director at Bemidji State University, where she teaches courses in Drawing, Painting, and Color Theory. She has a BFA in painting from Bemidji State.
She shared, “Walking through this exhibit, I felt a genuine connection to the care, creativity, and individuality present in each piece. Here we have a beautiful balance between technical skill and imagination, where our participants’ unique approaches show us the limitlessness of art. I was especially moved by the range of expression; all of these pieces are full of curiosity and exploration. This collection highlights both seasoned expertise and emerging talent and offers a hopeful glimpse into the future of art.Thank you so much for inviting me to play a small part in this wonderful exhibition.”
Find a virtual walk through of the exhibit under the Exhibits tab at the top of our website.
Exhibit Awards include:
Adults:
1st Place $500: Holly Ellsworth-Crowther of Warroad in painting with mixed media for “Forest’s Queen"
2nd Place $300: Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla in sculpture for "It’s a Keeper"
3rd Place $200: Jodi Peterson a teacher in Ada in fused glass for "Vintage Fish"
Merit $100: Bert Foster of Thief River Falls in photography for "Canyon Mermaid"
Merit $100: Cindy Kolling of Gully in drawing for "Through Morning Fog"
Merit $100: Ross Hier of Crookston in watercolor painting for "Golden Silk Orb Spider & Chestnut-breasted Coronet"
Merit $100: Janet Johnson of Roseau in mixed media for "Remnants"
Merit $100: Jessy Ingalls of Warroad in textile for "Woodland Wool Scarf"
People’s Choice: $100 Irene Bertils of Crookston
Students:
1st Place $300 Lillian Hansen of Halstad in ceramic sculpture for "Bon Jour Cat Teapot"
2nd Place $150 Brianna Severts of Grygla in mixed media for “Jerry”
3rd Place $100 Kerstyn Lindsey of Ada in mosaic for "Giant Blue Morpho"
Merit $50 Amber Danielson of Red Lake Falls in mixed media for "Friday from ARK"
Merit $50 Aryanna Harrow of East Grand Forks in digital art for "Distinguished Toucan"
Merit $50 Mahli Holter of Red Lake Falls in drawing for "Long Awaited Reunion"
Merit $50 Sydney Schneider of Hendrum in sculpture for "Ow!"
Merit $50 Melody Voeltz of Lancaster in painting for "Great Heron"
Merit $50 Renn Ginther of Roseau in sculpture for “Camouflage”
People’s Choice: $50 Renn Ginther of Roseau
Of the Year Awards were presented to Samantha Harrill of Warroad for Artist of the Year for Visual Art, Jane Anderson of Thief River Falls for Arts Advocate of the Year for Performing Arts, and Becky Rosenkrans of Roseau received the Northwest Star Award.
Our Artist of the Year award can be given to any discipline artist including visual, performing, or creative writing who are emerging or at a mid-way point in their artistic endeavors provides a cash award of $500. Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and includes arts from all disciplines. The Northwest Star Award comes with $5,000. Artists can only receive our Northwest Star Award once as a lifetime achievement award.
Iron and Feathers: Art of the NW a Fournet exhibit featuring paintings by Ross Hier and Beau Bakken is Open
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Announces the opening of
Iron and Feathers: Art of the Northwest
an exhibit featuring paintings by Ross Hier and Beau Bakken
Open Through August
at the
Historic Fournet Building, 101 N Broadway
Downtown Crookston
2nd Floor in the Atrium
Artist Reception TBD
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce the opening of Iron and Feathers: Art of the Northwest an exhibit featuring paintings by Ross Hier and Beau Bakken at the Historic Fournet Building downtown Crookston. This exhibit includes 35 original pieces of art in watercolor on paper and acrylic on canvas, most of which are for sale.
Beau Bakken of Hallock has been professionally creating art by commission since 2008. Beau has been a consistent entrant into NWMAC’s exhibits and won 1st place in the annual NW Minnesota Art Exhibit in 2011, 2014, and 2022, and given a People’s Choice award in 2025. He won the Artist of the Year in 2016. Beau was the featured artist in the Around the Farm exhibit at our gallery in Thief River Falls. His work consists of large outdoor murals, outdoor business signs, indoor murals, and indoor wall hangings and paintings.
About his 8 pieces of work in the exhibit, Beau said, “My paintings in this exhibit are captures of the Red River Valley, painted with the hope that fellow citizens of the valley would find them relatable.”
Ross H. Hier attended the University of Minnesota earning a BS in Wildlife Management and had a 35-year career with the Section of Wildlife in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. His time was spent researching mallards, ring-necked ducks, and the Lesser scaup, as well as managing wildlife management areas in Polk and Red Lake Counties. Nature has excited him for as long as he can remember and his creative need to express this love led him to watercolor painting.
He shared, “Northwest Minnesota is such a diverse piece of geography … native grasslands, the Aspen Parklands and transition zone between prairie and forest landscapes interspersed with agricultural tracts. The ancient Lake Agassiz beach lines are quite profound on the east side of the Red River Valley and serve as linear maps for migrant birds where substantial grasslands and wetlands serve as stop-over areas for birds moving further north. The diversity of nature in northwest Minnesota is amazing. Nature has always been a force that triggers my creative thought process. I love painting with watercolors for their elusive nature and spontaneity.”
He continued, “It’s an honor to exhibit in the town I have long resided in and to share this exhibit with the outstanding artist, Beau Bakken. His work never ceases to amaze me. This exhibit presents the viewers with two different artists who use different painting mediums and rather different styles. I hope the exhibit brings viewers much joy and thankfulness as we celebrate the premier region of Minnesota through art. Thanks to the Northwest Arts Council and especially Exhibit Specialist Trey Everett.” Twenty-seven works in the exhibit were created by Ross.
You can find both Ross and Beau in our most recent Artists of NW Minnesota booklet.
An Artist Reception will be held at the Fournet. Watch our website, newsletters, or social media for an announcement of the date, time, and other details.
You won't want to miss this exhibit open through August at the Fournet Building, 101 N Broadway, Downtown Crookston. Parking and admission is free. Take the stairs or elevator to the second floor where the gallery is located in the atrium. Open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM.
Watch this video for a virtual tour of the exhibit at https://youtu.be/emdN39orEZE or find it on our website under the exhibits tab at the top of the homepage.
For more information about this exhibit, visit our website at NWArtsCouncil.org, or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at (218) 280-4917 or email NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com. Please sign up for our e-newsletter on our website home page to see the latest news and grant announcements.
Email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886 to reach our office during regular business hours.
Springboard’s Work of Art: Website Basics for Artists
Springboard for the Arts
Website Basics for Artists
May 19
Get a big picture view of the components of your artist website, find clarity on whether you need a website for your artistic practice and learn the basics of creating a website.
Location: Zoom Meeting
Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:30 PM
This workshop is a part of Work of Art+, a series of workshops that complement the 12-part Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists series, a professional development curriculum designed to teach business skills to artists in all disciplines. The curriculum is always available for free download, or you can buy a copy of the book to support your practice.
Meet the Instructor
Instructor: Anniessa Antar (she/they)
Bio: Anniessa is a software engineer, educator, and cultural organizer. She has worked at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, Saint Catherine University, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, and with organizations such as Mizna, Confluence: An East Lake Studio for Community Design, the Minnesota Marine Art Museum and the School for Poetic Computation. Her practices center on the power of creative, playful, and collective work to confront and heal systemic oppression.
Springboard Work of Art: Artist Statements May 5 — Virtual Workshop
Springboard for the Arts
Work of Art: Artist Statements
May 5 from 6 to 8:30 PM
Get a hands-on, step-by-step approach to writing a range of statements that best represent your work as an artist.
Location: Zoom Meeting
Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:30 PM
This workshop is a part of Work of Art+, a series of workshops that complement the 12-part Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists series, a professional development curriculum designed to teach business skills to artists in all disciplines. The curriculum is always available for free download, or you can buy a copy of the book to support your practice. Workshop is free to attend.
Meet the Instructor
Instructor: Mikha Dominguez (they/them)
Bio: Mikha Dominguez (aka Mikhamik) is a Queer non-binary Latinx Venezuelan artist based in Minneapolis since 2014. With a background in set design, Mikha’s work explores identity, migration, and resilience. They have worked at the Walker Art Center, exhibited at MCAD, University of Minnesota, St. Catherine University, and the University of Omaha, and participated in the Art Shanty Projects. Mikha leads Mikhamik House of Arts and teaches at Springboard for the Arts while studying at MCAD. Visit their website at mikhamik.com.
Springboard Work of Art: Portfolio Kit — virtual workshop April 21
Springboard’s Work of Art: Portfolio Kit — virtual workshop April 21
Your portfolio is the core of your promotional material and professional calling card. Focus on the essential elements: sharpening your artist statement, tailoring your artistic resume, and curating and formatting your work samples.
This workshop is a part of the 12-part Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists series, a professional development curriculum designed to teach business skills to artists in all disciplines. The curriculum is always available for free download, or you can buy a copy of the book to support your practice. This is free to attend.
Location: Zoom Meeting
Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Time: 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Meet the Instructor
Instructor: Dana Sikkila (she/her)
Bio: Dana Sikkila is a queer Minnesota-based interdisciplinary maker and creator. Known for her social practice and activism programs, creative consulting, public speaking, and her theory development within creative curriculum, Sikkila’s practices span from working in communities from rural to the Twin Cities. Her self-defining administration style has bridged the gap between arts creation and administration, through the development of numerous grassroots cultural projects and exhibitions throughout the state. Dana is also an Artist Career Consultant and Workshop Instructor with Springboard for the Arts. Visit her website at danasikkila.com
Legacy in the Wild!
Legacy in the Wild is a celebration of the ways that the Minnesota Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment has impacted our great state since being passed by the voters of Minnesota in 2008. When you spot the Legacy logo, snap a selfie and upload it to social media with your own caption and the hashtag #mnlegacyinthewild
Danish Folk Music, Songs and Stories May 15 East Grand Forks
East Grand Forks Campbell Library and North Country Fiddle and Dance present:
A Concert of Danish Folk Music, Songs and Stories on
Friday, May 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 PM
KRISTIAN BUGGE, of Copenhagen, Denmark, (fiddle, vocals) and WB REID, of Seattle, ( guitar ) will take you on an entertaining journey through the traditions of Danish folk music with songs and stories in Danish and English, wild polkas, fiery reels, jigs and lyrical waltzes from every corner of Denmark.
Campbell Library at 422 4th St. NW in East Grand Forks
Minnesota State Arts Board offers Cultural Expression Funding Opportunity and Evaluation Capacity Building Webinars
Funding Opportunity: FY 2027 Cultural Expression
Evaluation Capacity Building Webinars
Grant Opportunity for Individuals and Organizations:
FY 2027 Cultural Expression
Application materials are now available for the FY 2027 Cultural Expression grant program.
Cultural Expression provides project grants to support activities that share, explore, pass on, express, or celebrate the culture of a community through the arts. Cultural communities may be defined by a common ethnicity, tribal affiliation, geographic or regional identity, language, or other significant characteristics, and will have shared beliefs, customs, traditions, and ways of life as a community. Projects may be designed to explore or pass on culture within a community, or to share or celebrate culture with Minnesotans outside the community. The program supports projects that express culture through traditional art forms that have been passed down within a community, and contemporary art forms rooted in cultural traditions.
Funds could be used to support community members learning or practicing a traditional cultural art form, presenting cultural festivals or performances, exhibitions that share or explore the culture of a community, apprenticeships with master artists or culture bearers, or documentation to preserve and pass on cultural traditions, etc. Projects that are intended to engage a particular demographic group or community in the arts, but that do not explore or express that community's culture, are not a good fit for this program.
Applicants may request between $5,000 - $35,000.
The Arts Board will host a virtual Information Session for potential applicants to learn more about the program purpose and application process. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions with program officers at the end of the session. Details, including full program guidelines, eligibility, and resources for applicants can be found on the Cultural Expression program page.
Cultural Expression Program Page
Important Dates
May 5, 2026: Virtual Information Session and Q & A. This will be a real-time virtual session. Potential applicants can learn about the Cultural Expression grant program and how to submit an application. The session will be recorded and available for later viewing.
June 5, 2026: Application deadline; all application materials must be submitted before 4:30 p.m.
January 2027: Arts Board approves grant awards.
March 2027 - February 2028: All funded activities must take place within these dates.
Building Evaluation Capacity for the Arts
Free, Webinar Series
The Minnesota State Arts Board is pleased to announce a two-part, free evaluation capacity building webinar series. This opportunity is being offered to any individuals or organizations that provide arts programming. This year’s series will focus on evaluating change—how we understand the change our programs have on participants and communities. As part of this, the focus will be on examples that highlight ways to better understand the populations benefitting from programs. Do you want to learn about how to understand the larger community impact of your arts programs? If so, this series is for you!
The goal of Building Evaluation Capacity for the Arts is to enhance evaluation skills in arts programs and to create a community of learners committed to evaluation. Participants can attend one or both sessions.
Please note participating in this training is optional and will not influence your current or any future grant applications with the Minnesota State Arts Board.
Webinars will be held from 1:00-2:30 PM. The following are dates and brief descriptions of each session:
May 7: The art of evaluationLearn more about evaluating arts programs and how you can develop outcomes to drive your evaluation. The discussion will also include ways to better understand the populations that your programs serve.
May 20: Evaluating change and impact Learn methods that are particularly useful for evaluating the impact of arts programs.
If you are interested in participating, please register by selecting each session you are interested in attending.
Thursday May 7:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/OS_XIlllQUKOGcc6aK2O0gWednesday May 20:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/cNadXxPERzioOVTw3hRbdg
Individuals who attend will have the opportunity to interact with others interested in the arts, ask questions of the presenters, and apply their learning through interactive activities. The trainings will be recorded and available at a future date for those who are unable to attend.
If you have any questions reach out to Jeffrey Niblack, Arts Board research and evaluation director, at jeffrey.niblack@state.mn.us
The Minnesota State Arts Board is a state agency that stimulates and encourages the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the state. It works to ensure that all Minnesotans can participate in and benefit from the arts.
NW Art Exhibit Award Winners
NW Art Exhibit Winners
The annual NW Art Exhibit has been judged. The public is encouraged to vote for People’s Choice until the end of the NW Art Exhibit Reception before the program on April 25 at Warroad RiverPlace. The list of winners is below.
Adult Winners
1st Place $500: Holly Ellsworth-Crowther of Warroad in painting with mixed media for “Forest’s Queen"
2nd Place $300: Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla in sculpture for "It’s a Keeper"
3rd Place $200: Jodi Peterson a teacher in Ada in fused glass for "Vintage Fish"
Merit $100: Bert Foster of Thief River Falls in photography for "Canyon Mermaid"
Merit $100: Cindy Kolling of Gully in drawing for "Through Morning Fog"
Merit $100: Ross Hier of Crookston in watercolor painting for "Golden Silk Orb Spider & Chestnut-breasted Coronet"
Merit $100: Janet Johnson of Roseau in mixed media for "Remnants"
Merit $100: Jessy Ingalls of Warroad in textile for "Woodland Wool Scarf"
People’s Choice: TBD
Student Winners
1st Place $300 Lillian Hansen of Halstad in ceramic sculpture for "Bon Jour Cat Teapot"
2nd Place $150 Brianna Severts of Grygla in mixed media for “Jerry”
3rd Place $100 Kerstyn Lindsey of Ada in mosaic for "Giant Blue Morpho"
Merit $50 Amber Danielson of Red Lake Falls in mixed media for "Friday from ARK"
Merit $50 Aryanna Harrow of East Grand Forks in digital art for "Distinguished Toucan"
Merit $50 Mahli Holter of Red Lake Falls in drawing for "Long Awaited Reunion"
Merit $50 Sydney Schneider of Hendrum in sculpture for "Ow!"
Merit $50 Melody Voeltz of Lancaster in painting for "Great Heron"
Merit $50 Renn Ginther of Roseau in sculpture for “Camouflage”
People’s Choice TBD
Artist Spotlight with Maury Finney on April 9
Trey Everett and Kristin Eggerling joined Saxophonist Maury Finney for a live discussion on April 9. The discussion was live on the NWMAC Facebook and YouTube pages. Listen/watch at https://www.youtube.com/live/qrmF5bUZYWA?si=dU1V4wXXlIa5GyW3. Maury shared stories of his music background and experiences in Nashville and on the charts. He also gave advice to aspiring musicians.
This well-known music artist is originally from rural Kittson County Minnesota. He is featured in our Good Vibrations exhibit.
Maury Finney grew up with music dominating his family’s focus. Dorothy, his mom, was a talented piano player and had been raised in a family of musicians herself. His dad George was a saxophone player and Maury followed in his footsteps. Maury started playing the sax at a young age with guidance from his dad. In his teens, he was hired by a local band leader to fill in for the regular sax player who was forced to take time off to have his teeth fixed. When the sax player returned, Maury remained in the band, gaining invaluable experience by playing alongside seasoned musicians. Those early gigs proved life changing as he developed his talent in ways that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible.
With his brother Allen, Maury formed a rock and roll band called The Charms. The band recorded a record and developed a large following, playing venues throughout the local area. In addition to his music career, Maury and his wife Faith owned Maury's Tv and appliance business in East Grand Forks and later opened a recording studio.
In 1976 Maury recorded the song “Maidens Prayer” for Soundwaves Record Co. of Nashville, which began his country music career with nationwide success. Between 1976 and 1977, he charted the most instrumental songs of any country music artist. In 1977 and 1978, Maury was named “Top New Instrumentalist” by the three leading music reporting magazines -- Billboard Music Week, Record World, and Cashbox magazine. He charted twelve times on the Billboard country singles charts. Later, he organized a 7 piece band called Reedsong Music Company, which included family members. Maury was inducted into Minnesota’s Rock Country Hall of Fame in 2007.
Not long ago he was introduced to Little Bobby Houle and they performed together. Maury shared, “it was a magical time when I became Little Bobby’s saxman at several of Bobby’s shows at casinos, Bluesfests, and many city celebrations. It was a blast playing with such a professional and talented songwriter, guitarist, and great Blues singer. Little Bobby’s passing has left a hole in my music life.” Maury continues to perform in the northwest Minnesota area and sometimes in Florida, with blues bands, on his own, and when other opportunities arise and he still thoroughly enjoys it.
April Newsletter What’s happening in the Arts?
Read all about what’s happening in the arts in our region, including awards, upcoming deadlines, events, grants, exhibits, opportunities and much more! Click https://conta.cc/4txRSYJ
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NW Annual Art Exhibit is Open until April 25 in Warroad
The Northwest Minnesota Annual NW Art Exhibit is
Open Until April 25
Warroad RiverPlace
Reception and Program on April 25 to
Honor Exhibit & Of the Year Award Winners
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce the NW Annual Art Exhibit is at the Warroad RiverPlace until April 25.
Watch this video walk through of the exhibit at https://youtu.be/ETXpnkiTPOE
Adult artists from our 7 county- service region (Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau, and Red Lake Falls) and students from 7 schools entered over 100 pieces of art, including oil, acrylic, watercolor painting, photography, pencil drawings, pen and ink, pottery, sculpture, fiber art, digital, glass mosaic, and mixed media and are competing for $2,300.00 in cash awards. Attendees at the exhibit can vote for People’s Choice. Exhibit cash award winners were chosen while the exhibit is on display by Alice Blessing, a qualified juror from Bemidji. They will be recognized and receive their check at the Artist Reception.
Adult Winners
1st Place $500: Holly Ellsworth-Crowther of Warroad in painting with mixed media for “Forest’s Queen"
2nd Place $300: Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla in sculpture for "It’s a Keeper"
3rd Place $200: Jodi Peterson a teacher in Ada in fused glass for "Vintage Fish"
Merit $100: Bert Foster of Thief River Falls in photography for "Canyon Mermaid"
Merit $100: Cindy Kolling of Gully in drawing for "Through Morning Fog"
Merit $100: Ross Hier of Crookston in watercolor painting for "Golden Silk Orb Spider & Chestnut-breasted Coronet"
Merit $100: Janet Johnson of Roseau in mixed media for "Remnants"
Merit $100: Jessy Ingalls of Warroad in textile for "Woodland Wool Scarf"
Student Winners
1st Place $300 Lillian Hansen of Halstad in ceramic sculpture for "Bon Jour Cat Teapot"
2nd Place $150 Brianna Severts of Grygla in mixed media for “Jerry”
3rd Place $100 Kerstyn Lindsey of Ada in mosaic for "Giant Blue Morpho"
Merit $50 Amber Danielson of Red Lake Falls in mixed media for "Friday from ARK"
Merit $50 Aryanna Harrow of East Grand Forks in digital art for "Distinguished Toucan"
Merit $50 Mahli Holter of Red Lake Falls in drawing for "Long Awaited Reunion"
Merit $50 Sydney Schneider of Hendrum in sculpture for "Ow!"
Merit $50 Melody Voeltz of Lancaster in painting for "Great Heron"
Merit $50 Renn Ginther of Roseau in sculpture for “Camouflage”
The exhibit is at Warroad RiverPlace at 103 State Avenue, Warroad and will be open for the public to view art and vote for People’s Choice Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 5 PM.
On Saturday, April 25 the exhibit will open at 2:30 PM with mingling, light refreshments, and live music. The awards program will start at 3:30 PM. Of the Year Awards will be presented to Jewelry Artist Rebecca Rosenkrans for the NW Star Award -- Lifetime Achievement, Visual Artist Samantha Harrill for Artist of the Year, and Actor and Theater Director Jane Anderson for Arts Advocate of the Year, in addition to the art exhibit awards. The Exhibit and Reception are open to the public and free to attend. Many pieces of art are for sale, and the public is encouraged to shop. Purchases can be marked as sold and picked up on April 25 after the reception. The exhibit provides an opportunity to see what our regional adult and student artists are creating in their studio spaces and in the classroom. The reception is a wonderful day of celebrating the arts in our region.
Funding for these awards is provided by the McKnight Foundation and the Minnesota State Legislature.
Of the Year Award Winners Announced
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is Pleased to Announce
Of the Year Award Winners for 2026
Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents.
Of the Year Award Winners include:
Samantha Harrill of Warroad is the
Northwest Artist of the Year for Visual Art
Originally from Red Lake Falls, Harrill is a gifted ceramic artist. She creates functional and decorative pottery pieces that are thoughtfully designed, well-crafted, and finished with great attention to detail. Samantha is also the Executive Director of Warroad RiverPlace. In that position, she works tirelessly to affirm and bring the arts to northern Minnesota, while advocating for all art mediums, theater, art workshops for children and adults, music, and cultural and celebration events. Our Artist of the Year award can be given to any discipline artist including visual, performing, or creative writing who are emerging or at a mid-way point in their artistic endeavors. It is a cash award of $500. Congratulations, Samantha!
Jane Anderson of Thief River Falls will be awarded the Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year Award for
Performing Arts
Jane is a theater artist – actor, singer, director, costumer -- and former Executive Director and founding member of the Thief River Falls Area Community Theater. Her decades of service, leadership, and advocacy have had a profound impact on area actors and audiences. Jane believes in nurturing young artists for their development and to sustain a vibrant arts community. When she saw a need, she created and stewarded youth programs to provide theater opportunities for young performers. Her unwavering commitment to the arts and arts education and her extraordinary ability to strengthen and expand the local theater community can be felt throughout our region. Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and includes arts from all disciplines. Congratulations, Jane!
Rebecca Rosenkrans of Roseau will receive the
Northwest Star Award
Rebecca (or Becky) has been creating one-of-a-kind jewelry for over 30 years. She is the owner of Bead Gypsy, a shop in Roseau where handmade goods and original art from over 20 artists are sold. The store is a haven for artists and arts lovers who live and visit the region. Becky handcrafts new pieces of jewelry or recreates old into new with Greek and Italian leather, beads, crafted chain maille, glass, stone, silver, crystal, and vintage goods. She readily shares her knowledge, creativity, and talents and is a tireless advocate for fellow artists. The Northwest Star Award comes with $5,000. Artists can only receive our Northwest Star Award once as a lifetime achievement award. Congratulations, Becky!
These awards will be presented on Saturday, April 25 at Warroad RiverPlace,103 State Avenue, Warroad. The NW Art Exhibit will open that day at 2:30 PM with mingling, light refreshments, and live music. The awards program will be at 3:30 PM. The exhibit and reception are open to the public and free to attend. The reception is a wonderful day of celebrating the arts in our region. Please join us!
For more information about these awards, see our website at http://www.northwestminnesotaartscouncil.org/
Funding for Northwest Star and Northwest Artist of the Year comes from The McKnight Foundation. Funding for Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year comes from the Minnesota State Legislature.
NW Art Exhibit and Of the Year Awards Reception and Program April 25
Of the Year and NW Art Exhibit Awards Reception & Program
April 25 at 2:30 PM
On Saturday, April 25 the exhibit will open at 2:30 PM with mingling, light refreshments, and live music by UND’s Red River Trio. The awards program will start at 3:30 PM. Of the Year Awards will be presented to Jewelry Artist Rebecca Rosenkrans for the NW Star Award -- Lifetime Achievement, Visual Artist Samantha Harrill for Artist of the Year, and Actor and Theater Director Jane Anderson for Arts Advocate of the Year, in addition to the art exhibit awards. The Exhibit and Reception are open to the public and free to attend. Many pieces of art are for sale, and the public is encouraged to shop. Purchases can be marked as sold and picked up on April 25 after the reception. The exhibit provides an opportunity to see what our regional adult and student artists are creating in their studio spaces and in the classroom. The reception is a wonderful day of celebrating the arts in our region. Everyone is encouraged to vote for People’s Choice.
Please join us April 25 at Warroad RiverPlace at 103 State Avenue in Warroad.
Arts Grants Deadline is April 30
Upcoming Deadline for Arts Grants is April 30
Arts Project Grants & Individual Artist Grants
Free Grant Writing Session will be held on
Wednesday, April 15 at 11 AM
Applications are open for grants from the NWMAC. It’s time to start writing your arts grant application! April 30 is the final deadline for this fiscal year.
Arts Grants for non-profit and governmental organizations. Non-profits and cities or counties can apply for one arts project at a time. The next deadline for these grants is April 30. Grants are between $500 and $10,000. Funding sources for these grants are Clean Water, Land and Legacy funds and general allocation funds from the State of Minnesota.
Organizational arts activities funded through this very important grant opportunity includes festivals, community theatre projects, folk music entertainment, sponsorship of visual demonstrations, creative writing workshops and many other activities that improve the quality of life of people in our communities. Public art like murals or sculptures also fall into this category.
Individual Artist Grants. Applications are open for arts grants to individuals from our seven county Minnesota service area including Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau counties. Individual Artist Grants for $5,000, $3,000, and $1,500 have an April 30 deadline. These grants are awarded to performing artists, visual artists, media artists, and creative writing artists from our seven county Minnesota service area including Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau counties.
Individuals must be out of high school and at least 18 years of age to be eligible. College tuition is not an eligible expense. This is the main category that individuals use to support their artistic business or advance their technical skills. This category is for non-hobby artists who make a substantial yearly income from their art. Grants are awarded annually with $1,500 going to four individuals, $3,000 going to three individuals, and $5,000 going to three individuals. Support for this program comes from The McKnight Foundation and the State of Minnesota.
Individuals absolutely must reside in our region (for one year prior) and remain living in our region during your entire grant year. In the case of college students, your school or your home mailing address must be in our region. You will have to show proof of residency, usually your driver’s license.
We offer free grant writing sessions to help you write your grant application or to answer any questions. The upcoming session will be:
Wednesday, April 15 at 11 AM
This free Grant Writing Workshop is on Zoom -- contact our office for a link. You can also come to our office in Warren and attend from our grant writing station. You must RSVP to attend! Email director@nwartscouncil.org to RSVP or with questions. Don’t let your questions about the grant process keep you from applying! We are here to help. This is a great opportunity to come to our office and work on your grant in our grant writing space. If you can’t attend these trainings but would like assistance, please contact our office.
To learn more about our grant programs and start an application visit www.NorthwestMinnesotaArtsCouncil.org. The grant application process is completely online and NWMAC's Director Mara Hanel can help walk you through the process of using the grants portal to get accustomed to it. Please contact her at director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886, extension 1.
Strike a Pose! In Progress Offers Hands On Photography Workshop in Crookston
Strike A Pose
with In Progress Artist Tomas Leal
Saturday & Sunday / April 25th & 26th
Studio 110 / Crookston Minnesota
Strike a Pose is a hands-on photography workshop focused on using light to shape mood, depth, and intensity in portraiture led by In Progress artist and one time resident of Crookston - Tomas Leal.
Participants will explore techniques such as directional lighting, high-contrast setups, and shadow control to create bold, expressive images. Through guided demonstrations and practice, photographers will learn how to transform simple setups into striking, dramatic portraits that emphasize emotion, texture, and form.
Please register below. This activity is intended to build belonging and familiarity while we all work to move through difficult times. There is no cost to participation.
Please note that the location for this workshop is STUDIO 110 in Crookston Minnesota
Questions can be directed to info@in-progress.org.or you can call Rena Bouchard Zapata at: 218-277-8774.
This workshop is made possible with support from: the McKnight Foundation, the Riester Foundation, the Minnesota State Arts Board General Operating Support Program and the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (pending). This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Artist Reception for Good Vibrations Exhibit April 16 6:30-8 PM
Artist Reception for Good Vibrations Exhibit
Northland Community and Technical College1101 State Highway 1Thief River Falls, MN, 56701United States (map)
Good Vibrations: All About NW Minnesota Music an exhibit featuring Songwriters, Composers, & the Music Industry
Including Robert “Little Bobby” Houle and Maury Finney
NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College
1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls
Artist Reception Thursday, April 16 from 6:30 to 8 PM
The exhibit Good Vibrations: All About NW Minnesota Music is open at our gallery at Northland Community and Technical College, 1101 Highway 1 East in Thief River Falls. This exhibit highlights the accomplishments of Robert “Little Bobby” Houle and Maury Finney, as well six other music artists. The exhibit will run from now until April 16.
Everyone is encouraged to attend this free event. Refreshments will be served. Live music will be provided by Crookston musician Anthony Diaz. Diaz blends jazz, blues, and bluegrass influences into expressive and approachable instrumental guitar music. With over 30 years of playing, he’s less interested in flash and more interested in feel — creating a relaxed atmosphere that invites people to settle in and enjoy the moment. He’ll be playing instrumental jazz and blues as background music to complement the space and the art. He is one of the artists featured in this exhibit.
Little Bobby’s impact on the music industry is known worldwide. Born in Red Lake and raised in Thief River Falls, blues musician and multi-instrumentalist Robert “Little Bobby” Houle III was a third generation Native American musician who followed in his father’s and grandfather’s musical footsteps. From his father, Robert Houle II “Big” Bobby, to his grandfather, Robert Houle, a Rockabilly Music Hall Of Famer, it’s no surprise that Little Bobby was as gifted as he was.
He began as a drummer and then in his early twenties ventured into singing the blues. After already being mostly self-taught, an improvising blues style was a natural fit. In 2005, Little Bobby released his first CD Before The Storm. After that, he released numerous blues albums, including Down, Dirty & Mean (2007), I've Got A Woman (2009), a live DVD A Night At The Empire (2009), Life of the Blues (2010), Showbiz (2015), Super B (2016), the single “Grow Old With You” (2018), an autobiographic DVD Music Is My Life (2018), Simple (2020), God Made Me Blue (2022), and That Killer B Sting (2023). Many of the albums or singles made the charts including holding the #1 album. For a time, he joined Nora Jean Bruso to perform in concerts and blues festivals and toured the United States and abroad including Poland. After playing at the Chicago Blues Festival, the Chicago Sun Times rated Nora Jean & Little Bobby the number one band to see. In 2011, the two put together the CD Good Blues in which Little Bobby not only played on but co-wrote and produced and the album landed on the blues charts.
Little Bobby is the only Minnesota artist to be featured on “The Beale St. Caravan Radio Hour,” the largest syndicated blues show in the world. He’s also been featured on the Black and Blues radio show in The Netherlands, The Monster Blues Show and the Bear Blues Show in the UK, and The Sunday Morning Hangover Cure in Canada, as well as several others. Since the release of God Made Me Blue, his music has played on 1,700 blues stations all over the world.
One of the things that makes Little Bobby’s music so unique is that, except for saxophone, harmonica or steel guitar, he played all the instruments himself and produced his own albums in his state-of-the-art studio in McIntosh under his label, Untouchable Productions. His long-running blues show, Little Bobby’s Juke Joint played Wednesday nights on 90.1 FM (www.radionorthland.org). Tragically, Little Bobby died suddenly in 2019, but his legacy lives on. His albums are available at Little Bobby’s Bar and Grill in McIntosh or online at www.little-bobby-music.company.site or find his music on local radio stations, YouTube, Pandora, iTunes, Spotify, many other music platforms and on every jukebox in the world.
Our other featured music artist is Maury Finney, who is also well-known. Originally from rural Kittson County Minnesota, Maury Finney grew up with music dominating his family’s focus. Dorothy, his mom, was a talented piano player and had been raised in a family of musicians herself. His dad George was a saxophone player and Maury followed in his footsteps. Maury started playing the sax at a young age with guidance from his dad. In his teens, he was hired by a local band leader to fill in for the regular sax player who was forced to take time off to have his teeth fixed. When the sax player returned, Maury remained in the band, gaining invaluable experience by playing alongside seasoned musicians. Those early gigs proved life changing as he developed his talent in ways that otherwise wouldn’t have been possible.
With his brother Allen, Maury formed a rock and roll band called The Charms. The band recorded a record and developed a large following, playing venues throughout the local area. In addition to his music career, Maury and his wife Faith owned Maury's Tv and appliance business in East Grand Forks and later opened a recording studio.
In 1976 Maury recorded the song “Maidens Prayer” for Soundwaves Record Co. of Nashville, which began his country music career with nationwide success. Between 1976 and 1977, he charted the most instrumental songs of any country music artist. In 1977 and 1978, Maury was named “Top New Instrumentalist” by the three leading music reporting magazines -- Billboard Music Week, Record World, and Cashbox magazine. He charted twelve times on the Billboard country singles charts. Later, he organized a 7 piece band called Reedsong Music Company, which included family members. Maury was inducted into Minnesota’s Rock Country Hall of Fame in 2007.
Not long ago he was introduced to Little Bobby Houle and they performed together. Maury shared, “it was a magical time when I became Little Bobby’s saxman at several of Bobby’s shows at casinos, Bluesfests, and many city celebrations. It was a blast playing with such a professional and talented songwriter, guitarist, and great Blues singer. Little Bobby’s passing has left a hole in my music life.” Maury continues to perform in the northwest Minnesota area and sometimes in Florida, with blues bands, on his own, and when other opportunities arise and he still thoroughly enjoys it.
In addition to Little Bobby and Maury Finney, other artists and groups featured in the exhibit include The Dank, Project: Constellation, Northern Valley Youth Orchestra, Anthony Diaz of Crookston, The O’Neil Family Band of East Grand Forks and Daniel Knight of Grand Forks. Items in this exhibit include posters, awards, newspaper articles, photos, albums, clothing and other merchandise.
Take a virtual walk through of this exhibit at https://youtu.be/gH-Plzv4WvY (on the NWMAC YouTube page). The video is also available on our website under the exhibits tab on the top of the homepage.
The NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls is at 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls 56701. The gallery is open during Monday-Friday from 8 – 5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Please call to make sure the college is open before making a special trip. Hours can change. Enter through Door B, which is right next to the gallery. Visitor parking is free.
For more information about this exhibit or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at (218) 280-4917 or email NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com. Please sign up for our e-newsletter on our website home page to see the latest news and grant announcements. Email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886 to reach our office during regular business hours.