Arts News
Welcome the Whimsical Exhibit is Open May 21-August 15
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Announces
Welcome the Whimsical
An Exhibit Featuring Your Imagination
Open May 21 - August 15
Artist Reception June 26 from 6 to 8 PM
NWMAC Gallery
Northland Community and Technical College
1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce the opening of Welcome the Whimsical, a fun exhibit open May 21 – August 15 at the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls. This exhibit includes 103 pieces of art created by 70 artists in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pen and ink, fiber art, printmaking, colored pencil, photography, ceramics, written material, marker, and mixed media. Some of the art is for sale.
Twenty-six adult and 44 student artists from throughout the region -- Lake Bronson, Thief River Falls, Hallock, East Grand Forks, Badger, Williams, Karlstad, Roseau, Crookston,
Gatzke, Warroad, Lancaster, Gully, Red Lake Falls, Ada, Fertile, and Warren, contributed to this showcase with 55 adult pieces and 48 student pieces of art.
Welcome the Whimsical features other worldly experiences. Think playful, unusual, odd, quaint, imagination, or fanciful art.
Karlstad Artist Alicia Spilde shared, “I hope you enjoy my sense of humor. Sometimes I feel like my art style doesn’t belong in an exhibit. I am an untrained artist who often makes pieces that may look a bit messy and not done in the best techniques. Lately, I’ve been leaning into the folky-ness of my style, inspired by folk artists of the past. We all have a message to share through our artwork, whether it is fine art or not.”
Artist Debbie Aune said, “I am a collector of weird and wonderful stuff and have been since I was a kid. About 15 years ago I was going through an exhausting stage in life trying to juggle work, family, and my own aspirations. During one of my daily walks, I found this mask shape, hairy piece of truck thread and envisioned dolls. It transformed into a ‘Tired Doll.’ It was coincidental that the medium matched my disposition at the time.”
Finally, Aliza Novacek-Olson explained, “Traditional techniques and functional purpose are the foundation of my work with textiles. Every once in a while, a different side of me shows itself in my art. The result is a piece that turns out mythical, a bit ugly, and sometimes . . . strangely cute. The theme of this exhibition is a perfect opportunity for my curious little wooly creatures to show themselves and see if they can make you smile.”
You won't want to miss this interesting exhibit open through August 15 at the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls. There will be an Artist Reception on June 26 from 6 to 8 PM at the gallery. This event is free and open to all and held in conjunction with a community play Seussical Kids being held in the college theater at 7 PM that evening.
Watch for a video with a virtual tour of the exhibit on our website and social media accounts.
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 – 4:30 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, especially during the summer. 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.
Traveling Art Exhibit is Open in Red Lake Falls
NWMAC Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Red Lake Falls to Start
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. This exhibit includes 14 original pieces of art by regional adult and student artists, chosen from works submitted for our annual juried exhibit. The exhibit is currently at the Red Lake Falls Public Library until June 26. This is the first stop of this exhibit this year. Please stop by to see these works of art. Some of these pieces of art are for sale.
The 2024-2025 Artists and Artwork:
Lucille Nelson, Argyle, “Waiting to be Restored” (Acrylic Painting)
Andy Hall, Climax "Rose Leaves” (Photography)
Paulette Christianson, Badger, “Serene” (Pastel Painting)
Dennis Kinkead, Hallock, “Where Are You Guys Going?” (Watercolor Painting) (Merit)
Dennis Lee, Red Lake Falls, “Water Tower” (Acrylic Painting)
Alicia Spilde, Karlstad, “Dreams” (Mixed Media)
Jessica Lundeen, Thief River Falls “Bee’s Marigold” (Acrylic Painting) (3rd Place)
Melody Voeltz, Lancaster, “Field Bunny” (Watercolor Painting) Lancaster School Student 2nd Place
Daniel Jones, Crookston, “Retro Modern” (Ink Print) Crookston School
Josiah Sjothun, Ada, “Chevette” (Sculpture) Ada-Borup-West High School
Alyssa Foster, Thief River Falls, “One Act Matters” (Drawing) TRF School Student 1st Place
Kaytlyn Knutson, Red Lake Falls, “Masquerade” (Acrylic Painting) Red Lake Falls School
Anthony Lucio, Red Lake Falls, “Bridge From My Window” (Mixed Media) Red Lake Falls School
Addison Severts, Grygla, “Serenity” (Sculpture) Grygla School Student 3rd Place
The 2024-2025 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:
May 8 to June 26 Red Lake Falls Public Library, Red Lake Falls
June 26 to August 5 Thief River Falls Public Library, Thief River Falls
August 5 to September 23 Roseau Public Library, Roseau
September 23 to November 12 Hallock Public Library, Hallock
November 12 to December 18 Ada Public Library, Ada
December 18 to February 3, 2026 Godel Public Library, Warren
February 3, 2026 to Mid-March Annual Exhibit TBD** Sorenson Gallery, Fosston Public Library, Fosston
*The start and end dates at each location are approximate, depending on weather, venue hours and other circumstances that may occur to prohibit travel. For specific library hours, please contact each location before planning your visit, especially if you are planning on bringing a group.
**Tentatively scheduled
For more information about the Traveling Exhibit or our other exhibits call our office at (218)-745-8886 or contact Trey at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com or NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com.
NW Awards Reception and Program
Images from the NW Awards Reception and Program in Crookston on Sunday, April 27.
May Newsletter … Read it Now
Our latest newsletter is out! Read the May 2025 newsletter to find out about upcoming deadlines, events, exhibits, calls for art, opportunities, and more at
https://conta.cc/4cQ5WWm
Make sure you sign up to get the e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Rena Zapata Bouchard is awarded Arts Advocate of the Year
Arts Advocate of the Year is Rena Zapata Bouchard
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce that Rena Zapata Bouchard of Crookston was awarded the Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year Award.
A certified freelance makeup artist and portrait photographer, Rena is passionate about empowering others and using the arts as a tool for social change. In 2019, she spearheaded the creation of Studio 110, a permanent space dedicated to digital storytelling for youth and adults in Crookston and the surrounding area and has continued in an active leadership role with the organization.
A satellite site since 1996 for Minneapolis organization In Progress, Studio 110 first offered summer programs called Fresh Voices in Crookston. In high school, Rena participated in one of their sessions. Later in 2018, she enrolled her kids, and she joined them to chaperone and never left. There she learned portraiture and has continued to hone her craft.
Studio 110 has become a space for media arts creativity with themes related to breaking stereotypes and acceptance. Media arts is art made looking through a lens like photography and video. Rena helps students who identify as persons of color find a welcoming home base at Studio 110. She coordinates media arts workshops, bringing in talented professional artists from across the nation to teach and empower those who come to the downtown Crookston location. She also podcasts and utilizes her makeup artistry in creative projects with the students and offers free family portraits during themed holiday events at Studio 110.
According to Kristine Sorenson who nominated Rena, “This initiative (Studio 110) was a testament to Rena’s vision, as she designed programs, managed events, and actively promoted activities that honored cultural identity through the arts. Studio 110 has become a hub for creativity and community engagement, hosting workshops and creating opportunities for artistic expression.” Rena “is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and accessibility in the arts, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background or experience, has the opportunity to participate and express themselves. Rena’s advocacy for her community and her ability to bring the art of storytelling to the forefront are truly commendable. Rena’s artistic talent, her dedication to empowering others, and her passion for using the arts as a tool for social change make her an outstanding candidate for the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Arts Advocate Award. It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Rena Zapata Bouchard for the prestigious Artist of the Year Award. Rena’s remarkable journey as an artist, her unwavering dedication to her craft, and her inspiring contributions to the creative community make her a truly deserving candidate for this esteemed honor.“
Rena’s sister, Regina Zapata said, “Rena has dedicated her time, energy, and creativity to enriching our community through the arts, serving as a tireless advocate for artists and underrepresented voices in Northwest Minnesota. She has used her talents to foster community engagement and inspire others. She has curated exhibits, provided mentorship and education to both youth and adults, and consistently advocated for greater Latinx representation in the arts. Her dedication to inclusivity and cultural visibility has made a lasting difference in our region, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and celebrated. Rena’s passion for advocacy, her unwavering support for fellow artists, and her visionary leadership make her an ideal candidate for the Arts Advocate of the Year award.”
Finally, Keri Pinna described Rena as a creative collaborator. Pinna’s work with Rena includes recording a podcast and facilitating the production of a short documentary. “Rena’s passionate advocacy for inclusivity in the arts has facilitated community capacity for self-expression; especially where voice has historically been unheard.”
Rena spoke of Studio 110, “It is open to everyone. This is a safe space that allows kids to open up. And, It has a huge impact, especially in our area where resources and support is limited. Having this program benefits a lot of people, including the kids and the community. The programs are free and provide access to all kinds of media equipment. Participants learn to do things they wouldn’t have been able to, like making award-winning videos.” Rena’s advice to aspiring artists is “Do it. If it makes you scared, then it’s probably going to be positive. Just jump in and try it.”
This award was presented on Sunday, April 27 in Crookston at the 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, Rena!
Darcy Reese receives NW Star Award
The NW Star Award is Given to Darcy Reese
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce that Darcy Reese of Thief River Falls received the Northwest Star Award. The award was presented to Reese on Sunday, April 27 in Crookston at the University of Minnesota during the NW Art Exhibit Awards Reception and Program.
Reese was given the NW Star Award for Creative Directing of the Choir. She was a choir teacher for 37 years in Thief River Falls and received national recognition and awards for choir direction. She received the Minnesota Music Educators Hall of Fame Legacy Award earlier this year.
Originally from Greenbush, Reese grew up on a farm and attended Bemidji State University where she received a BS in vocal music and general classroom music. Immediately after college, she began teaching in Thief River Falls. Later she attended Mankato State where she received a master’s degree in educational leadership and her principal licensure.
In the early 2000s Darcy experienced Black gospel music and conducting when professional artists began coming to her school to work with the students. She also took the students to the Minneapolis metro area and out of state, including New York City to perform and experience a variety of musical genres. These opportunities broadened her students and changed the way she conducted the choir. Darcy embraced and introduced her students to the music, culture, and history of Black gospel, American Indian dancers and drummers, the Holocaust and Judaism, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Darcy and the Lincoln High School Concert Choir were featured in a program on Prairie Public TV in 2019. Watch it at https://youtu.be/041C0j9upPA?si=Z4y__fyTACw_Sckw.
School Board Vice Chair Misty Hempel explained that in the classroom Darcy brought “forward music that is challenging and pushes the students beyond their comfort zone. Not only do they execute performances on pieces of collegiate difficulty, but they do so in languages and dialects from an incredibly diverse library of genres. Darcy allowed her students to come into her classroom and safely show up as themselves. No judgment, no criticism, and no expectations other than to be kind, do your best, and always listen and support others. She taught them so much more than the love of music … she taught them to love themselves and all of humanity.”
Principal Scott Brekke said, “Her enthusiasm, her innovation, and her dedication to choir education is exemplary. What truly sets Mrs. Reese apart from other educators is her ability to see students' strengths when they are not evident. Students in her choir are very diverse in their backgrounds. She cultivated that diversity and ability of each student into an amazing performance that resonates with a wide audience. Mrs. Reese provided many different experiences for students to learn how to connect with the music. They don't just sing. They personalize the music through classroom discussion, guest speakers, videos, and reflecting on how it impacts their life and the lives of others.”
School Board Member Michelle Westerman explained part of Darcy’s unique approach to teaching and directing. “Darcy not only encourages the best of her students as a choir teacher, but she understands the importance of cultural competence in our community and beyond. She has developed and worked on several projects that immerse her students in cultures outside of their own to give her students the opportunity to see the world in someone else’s shoes. Not only does she do that through her song selection, but through group and individual studies that dive into a deeper understanding of that culture. By leaning into the culture and meanings of the songs they sing; they can put the emotions and spirit into their songs. They have a personal understanding and interest in portraying the culture appropriately. It is not just a song, it becomes a part of who they are.”
Darcy has advice for aspiring artists. “You have to put the time and energy in. It doesn’t happen overnight. And you must make connections. It takes patience. Work on your talent daily.”
About the impact that music and the arts has on individuals and society, Darcy explained, “Music and all other art forms brings out the HUMAN in us. When you hear a song, see a painting or watch dancers the human spirit feels something. Often you can’t describe what you experienced because words don’t do justice to the artistic experience. I believe that if the entire world faithfully experienced the arts once a day, the world would change for the better.”
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, Darcy!
Loreen Hanson is Artist of the Year
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce that Loreen Hanson of Thief River Falls is the Northwest Minnesota Artist of the Year for Visual Arts. This award was presented on Sunday, April 27 at the University of Minnesota in Crookston.
With over 76 years of experience, Loreen has worked in numerous mediums, but she prefers to paint with watercolors. Her artwork ranges from images of wildlife, flora, and fauna, still life arrangements, portraits, and paintings of people doing everyday activities -- all of which celebrate life. She has skillfully captured the beauty of the world around her and has demonstrated her exceptional talent and dedication to the arts through her contributions to the art community.
Throughout the years, Hanson has painted murals on the sides of buildings in area small towns, participated in more than 30 art exhibits, painted a landscape in a window well at a nursing home, and painted theater backgrounds. She has been an active member of Artists Unlimited for over 40 years. Although she has not had any formal training, she has always been eager to learn and has sought to improve her work by attending several workshops, skill exchanges with other painters, and pored over books by professional artists. Her dedication to learning and honing her craft has shown through her works of art. Last fall Loreen had an impressive one-woman art show featuring 186 watercolor paintings in Thief River Falls.
Thief River Falls Artist Keith Wheeler said, “Loreen is gifted with a distinct style. For an artist this is a great gift. I just love that not only does her body of work span the decades, but it continues to grow as the years pass.”
Fellow Artists Unlimited Member Margaret Anderson of Lancaster praised Loreen’s contributions to the fine arts throughout the upper Midwest. She shared that Loreen has been a “mentor and teacher to many beginning artists and young people.”
Along with her artistic talents, Loreen also remains passionate about promoting the arts and has encouraged young and old alike to participate in it. Hanson gave this advice for aspiring artists, “If you can draw, you can paint. Choose your favorite medium and go for it.”
On the impact of the arts on society, Hanson shared “Art enriches our lives. Not just the artist’s life, but everyone’s. People appreciate art.”
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, Loreen Hanson!
Northwest Minnesota Art Exhibit Winners Announced
Northwest Minnesota Art Exhibit Winners Announced
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is excited to announce the Northwest Minnesota Art Exhibit Winners. Student and adult artists residing in a seven-county region including Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau and Red Lake recently entered the Northwest Minnesota Art Exhibit and competed for $2,300 in cash awards. The winners were recognized at the Northwest Minnesota Artist Reception in Crookston on April 27. It was a wonderful day to celebrate these artists and the arts in northwest Minnesota.
Exhibit cash award winners were chosen while the exhibit was on display at the University of Minnesota in Crookston by qualified juror Glen Henry.
Henry is a versatile and accomplished Indigenous artist whose creative journey spans a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, and graphic design. He is the Director of Exhibitions at Minnesota State University Moorhead. He received his BA and MFA from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks. His artwork often explores themes of identity, culture, and the complex intersections of the past and present, while using bold, expressive color palettes and innovative design methods. As an Indigenous artist, he incorporates aspects of his culture into his work, allowing for a unique narrative that resonates with both personal and universal experiences.
He explained that “jurying an exhibition can be a difficult process. There are numerous deserving artworks, with many exhibiting interesting subject matter, style, creativity and skill. However, these attributes are not the only ones considered when choosing artworks. I also consider aesthetic, ambition, insight and original thought. Congratulations to all the artists (the award winners and to the artists who were not selected) for their skill, ambition, and courage to submit artworks. Perseverance is key when creating and submitting art. Good luck to everyone in their future artistic endeavors. It was an honor to be the juror for the 2025 NW Minnesota Arts Exhibition.”
Walk through the exhibit at https://youtu.be/QJeYb-pkZ-A?si=uAr8Rz1hzoX4PtJY
Exhibit Awards include:
Adults:
1st Place $500 Elizabeth Kitchell-Rockstad of Ada in mixed media for "In My Nature"
2nd Place $300 Denise Jenson of Badger in photography for "Underwater Pac-Men"
3rd Place $200 Jessica Lundeen of Thief River Falls in acrylic for "Bee's Marigold"
Merit $100 Cindy Kolling of Gully in pen and ink for "Slough pumper in Habitat"
Merit $100 Dennis Kinkead of Hallock in watercolor for "Where Are You Guys Going?"
Merit $100 Fred Hartmann of Thief River Falls in folk/traditional fine craft for "Country Church"
Merit $100 Jodi Peterson of Moorhead in fused glass for "The Wave"
Merit $100 Marj Mercil of Mentor in textile for "Little Boxes"
People’s Choice $100 Beau Bakken of Hallock
Students:
1st Place $300 Alyssa Foster of Thief River Falls in drawing for "One Act Matters"
2nd Place $150 Melody Voeltz of Lancaster in watercolor for "Field Bunny"
3rd Place $100 Addison Severts of Grygla in sculpture for "Serenity"
Merit $50 Ava Halvorson of Goodridge in drawing for "Grandpa Lewie"
Merit $50 Autumn Osse of Wannaska in digital photography for "Tank"
Merit $50 Mahli Holter of Red Lake Falls in photography for "All You Have to Do"
Merit $50 Issybelle Johnson of Fosston in sculpture for "The Well"
Merit $50 Aimee Ross of Fisher in mixed media for "Alaskan Dolly Varden"
People’s Choice $50 Aimee Ross of Fisher
Fourteen exhibit pieces of student and adult art were chosen to be included in the Traveling Art Exhibit, which will travel this next year to area libraries. Watch our website and social media for the schedule to be announced and for it to arrive in your community. Five exhibit pieces of student art were also chosen to be hung in the hallway of Senator Mark Johnson’s office in St. Paul. These students and their work include Courtney Webster of Lancaster “Sunflower,” Kyleigh Halvorson of Erskine “Existential,” Aimee Ross of Fisher “Kachemak State Park, AK,” Autumn Osse of Wannaska, “Tank,” and Addison Pal, of Crookston “Reflection.”
Minnesota State Arts Board offers Arts Experiences Grant
Minnesota State Arts Board Offers Funding for Arts Experiences
This pilot program supports individuals and organizations in providing meaningful arts experiences for Minnesotans within their communities. Funds may be used for a variety of arts projects such as creating and/or presenting concerts, plays, tours, exhibitions, arts festivals, public art, or other kinds of activities that provide Minnesotans opportunities to engage in arts activities that are instilled into community or public life.
Program overview and application instructions
FY 2026 Arts Experiences Program Overview and Application Instructions—All applicants should read this document thoroughly before beginning online application.
Application deadline
May 2, 2025, before 4:30 p.m.
When will funds be awarded?
Grant awards will be approved at the December 2025 board meeting. The grant period for these awards will be February 2026- January 2027; all funded activities must take place within the grant period.
Who can apply?
Both individuals and organizations are eligible to apply. The applicant must be:
An individual
An artist working in dance, media arts, music, photography, poetry, prose, theater, two-and three-dimensional visual art; or
A culture bearer who has been trained by traditional elders or master artists and whose artistic practice is reflective of the cultural life of a community; or
An organization
A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt arts organization; or
A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonarts organization that regularly offers arts programming as an integral part of its mission; or
A unit of state, local, or tribal government; or
An arts affiliate of a nonprofit organization or public entity; or
An arts group without 501(c)(3) status applying with a Minnesota tax-exempt or public fiscal sponsor
An individual may submit an application in only one of the following programs in FY 2026: Creative Individuals, Arts Experiences, Arts Education, or Cultural Expression.
An organization may submit an application in only one of the following programs in FY 2026: Arts Experiences, Arts Education, Cultural Expression.
Additional eligibility requirements are included in the FY 2026 Arts Experiences Program Overview and Application Instructions. Please review all eligibility requirements carefully before beginning an application.
Grant range
Applicants may request between $5,000 - $35,000. No cash match is required.
Resources for applicants
FY 2026 Arts Experiences Information Session and Q&A with Program Officers
Recording | Download PowerPoint
Learn more about the FY 2026 Arts Experiences grant program. This virtual information session will provide details about the program purpose, eligibility, and application process.
FY 2026 Grant Programs Overview
The Arts Board hosted two virtual sessions giving a high-level overview of the grant programs offered for organizations and individuals in fiscal year 2026. Potential applicants may wish to review the recording of either of these sessions to help determine which is the best fit for their work. Note that the program specific information session linked above will provide a more in-depth understanding of the Arts Experiences grant program for potential applicants.
FY 2026 Grant Programs Overview for Organizations– Recording | Download PowerPoint
FY 2026 Grant Programs Overview for Individuals– Recording | Download PowerPoint
Sample applications
The following applications were submitted by fiscal year 2025 grantees.
The files may take several minutes to download.
• North Shore Music Association
If you have questions or need assistance
If you have questions about the content of the application form or narrative, please contact the program officer team:
Jenny Dodgson, Jamie Marshall, Adam Wiltgen
ArtsExperiences@arts.state.mn.us
(651) 539-2671
If you have questions about the technical aspects of the online application forms, or questions about electronic submission, please e-mail the Arts Board at:
Apply.Arts@state.mn.us
Tom Miller, WebGrants administrator
(651) 539-2656
Chris Berry, grants management systems administrator
(651) 539-2668
For accessibility inquiries or accommodation requests, please contact:
Sue Gens, outreach and accessibility coordinator
Sue.Gens@arts.state.mn.us
(651) 539-2658
The Arts Board offers accommodations, such as alternate format materials, transcription, and other technical assistance, upon request. Grant application deadlines are not able to be extended for any reason. To ensure we are able to provide you access, please make your accommodation request as soon as possible, and no less than two weeks prior to a grant application deadline.
All staff can be reached toll-free at (800) 866-2787 or via Minnesota Relay 711.
How to apply
Application method—All applicants are required to use the WebGrants system to apply and will submit all materials electronically. Registration is required of all applicants before beginning an application to any Arts Board program. It is only necessary to register once.
Two online tutorials are available to acquaint users with the WebGrants system:
Call to Artists in Polk and Norman Counties: RFP for Public Art Project
Call to Artists from Polk and Norman counties for Public Art Project!
Request for Proposals for Book Return
Due April 28
Calling artists in Polk and Norman counties! Lake Agassiz Regional Library is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) to create an artistic design for metal book return boxes at the following locations: Hawley Public Library, Lake Park LINK Site, Rothsay Library LINK Site and McIntosh Public Library.
The artwork will celebrate the libraries through one or more region-specific, artistic, cultural, and/or historical attribute(s). Once completed, the book returns will be viewable in a high-traffic location outside the libraries for all to enjoy. The designs will be printed on vinyl wraps.
Eligibility: The RFP is open to all artists 18 years or older living in Becker, Clay, Clearwater, Mahnomen, Norman, Polk and Wilkin counties working in any medium suitable for a vinyl wrap.
Project Budget: Total amount paid to artist will be $750 inclusive of all artist fees, research, design and materials used by the artist. Amount does not include the cost of the vinyl wrap.
Deadline for Applications: Monday, April 28, 2025
Access the RFP Document Here!
This project is funded in part with funds from Minnesota’s Art & Cultural Heritage Legacy Fund.
Individual Artist Grant Applications DUE April 15
Individual Artist Grant Applications DUE April 15.
Individual Artist Grants for $5,000 & $1,500
Free Grant Writing Session April 9 at 2 PM. RSVPS required
April Newsletter … Read it Now
Our latest newsletter is out! Read the April 2025 newsletter to find out about upcoming deadlines, events, exhibits, calls for art, opportunities, and more at
https://conta.cc/3RBwWPy
Make sure you sign up to get the e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Call for Art for Welcome the Whimsical Exhibit
Call for Art
Welcome the Whimsical Art Exhibit
Submissions Accepted Now Until Friday, May 9
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce a call for art for an upcoming exhibit Welcome the Whimsical: An Art Exhibit Featuring Your Imagination. The deadline for submissions is May 9.
Welcome the Whimsical features other worldly experiences. Think playful, unusual, odd, quaint, imagination, or fanciful art or Dr. Seuss-type images. This exhibit is open to students and adults in our 7 county area (Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Roseau, and Red Lake). Entry for the exhibit is free.
All mediums will be accepted including chalk, oil, sculpture, pencil, folk art, photography, writing, music, watercolor, acrylic, collage, mixed media, fiber, pen and ink, crayon, clay, pottery, and more!
The exhibit will be open May 21- August 15 at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. Artwork will need to be dropped off on Monday, May 19 at NCTC in Thief River Falls between 12 PM noon to 6 PM.
For Submissions
Please reach out to NWMAC Showcase Specialist Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com with questions or for submissions email him the title, dimensions, medium, for sale price, any info about the piece (meaning, why created it, etc), and a photo of the piece.
Applications Open for Artist Residency Program in New York Mills
Applications Open for Artist Residency Program in New York Mills
Applications for the Artist Residency Program at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center in New York Mills are now being accepted. The deadline is April 4, 2025. Information and application can be found on the website: https://www.kulcher.org/programs/artist-retreat/
The residency program is open to artists of all disciplines, writers, poets, playwrights, visual artists, musicians, and dancers, and offers time and space to create without distraction.
Artists are responsible for their own transportation to and from New York Mills, MN, and food while in residence. The Cultural Center provides a one-bedroom home, with all linens, dishes, etc. The Center requests that artists perform an outreach project, usually within the schools. For more information, check the website: www.kulcher.org, or contact: cheryl@kulcher.org
Upcoming Grant Deadlines + Grant Writing Workshops
Upcoming Deadlines for Arts Grants Applications
Applications Open Apply Now
Deadline for Arts Grants for Organizations is
March 31 & April 30
Individual Artist Grants is April 15
Grant Writing Training is March 11 at 4 PM &
April 9 at 2 PM
Thinking about public art in your community? Nonprofits and government organizations can start submitting applications for arts projects. The next deadlines are March 31 and April 30. Grants are between $500 and $10,000 and you can apply for one arts project at a time. 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 these two very important grant opportunities include 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.
Applications are also open for Individual Artist Grants. 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. Individual Artist Grants provide financial assistance for the exhibition, performance, or production of a specific creative work, mentoring with a more experienced artist, participation in not-for-credit arts experiences.
To be eligible you must be out of high school and at least 18 years of age and reside in the 7 county NW Minnesota region. College tuition is not an eligible expense. Support for this program comes from The McKnight Foundation.
Quick turnaround grants for $500 are available on an ongoing deadline -- first come, first served for individual artists. 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.
Schools in our seven-county region can also apply for an Artist Residency grant of $2,600 plus an additional $400 if the residency needs supplies. Our teaching artist roster is a great resource to view artists available to teach in our area and is available on our website at www.NorthwestMinnesotaArtsCouncil.org under the artists tab. Another resource to view artists available to enhance curriculum is COMPAS.
Schools can initially apply for one residency. Then based on remaining funding, can request up to three additional residencies into spring and summer. Funding for residency activities comes from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in Minnesota.
Read more here about our grants and how to apply.
FREE Grant Writing Sessions
March 11 at 4 PM &
April 9 at 2 PM
We offer grant training workshops via Zoom or in person at the NWMAC office in Warren. The next one is March 11 at 4 PM. 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.
To learn more about grant programs and start an application visit 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.
March Newsletter
Our latest newsletter is out! Read the March 2025 newsletter to find out about upcoming deadlines, events, exhibits, calls for art, opportunities, and more at
https://conta.cc/3DgBPtT
Make sure you sign up to get the e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Minnesota State Arts Board Offers Opportunities to Apply for Accessible Arts Grant Programs
The Minnesota State Arts Board announces two opportunities to apply for the Accessible Arts grant program and serve as a grant advisor
Opportunities from the Minnesota State Arts Board
FY 2026 Accessible Arts grant application materials available
Help them invest public funds
for the arts
FY 2026 Accessible Arts grant program application materials available
Application materials are now available for the Accessible Arts grant program. This program is open to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt arts organizations, and arts affiliates of a nonprofit organization or public entity.
Accessible Arts offers project grants to increase the capacity of the arts sector to make arts experiences more accessible for people with disabilities.
In this program, funds will be used for investments that will have a longer-term impact on the applicant, such as professional development related to accessibility (i.e., staff or volunteer training, etc.), hiring accessibility consultants to conduct accessibility audits and/or develop accessibility plans, etc. Funds may also be used for small equipment investments (costing less than $5,000) that will make programming more accessible over time (i.e. assisted listening or captioning equipment, handrails, grab bars, etc.).
Applicants may request between $10,000 - $20,000.
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. See below for more information.
Details, including full program guidelines, eligibility, and resources for applicants can be found on the Accessible Arts program page.
Important dates
February 26, 2025: Virtual Information Session and Q & A. This will be a real-time virtual session. It will be recorded and available for later viewing.
April 4, 2025: Application deadline; all application materials must be submitted before 4:30 p.m.
October 2025: Arts Board approves grant awards.
December 2025 - November 2026: All funded activities must take place within these dates.
See the full FY 2026 grant program calendar on the Arts Board website.
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts is offering webinars to help you advocate for the arts!
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts is Offering Webinars to Help you Advocate for the Arts!
MN Lawmakers are Back—Make Sure the Arts Have a Voice!
How can YOU take action to ensure the arts remain a priority?
Minnesota Citizens for the Arts (MCA) is here to help. Join one (or all!) of their upcoming webinars to sharpen your advocacy skills, craft a compelling message, and make an impact where it matters most.
Upcoming MCA Webinars – Get Ready to Advocate!
Stories that Stick with Legislators - February 11 @ 11 AM
Learn how to tell a powerful, persuasive story that resonates with legislators and strengthens your case for the arts.
Arguments for the Arts - February 20 @ 11 AM
Discuss the facts, figures, and talking points that make a rock-solid argument for arts funding and support.
Advocacy 101 & 201 – Be a Pro at Arts Advocacy!
New to advocacy? Join Advocacy 101 and get comfortable speaking with legislators and making the case for the arts.
Already an advocate? Advocacy 201 dives into the latest legislative updates and key issues affecting the arts.
Choose your session: They’re offering both daytime and evening options to fit your schedule!
Bonus: Advocacy 101 happens just before 201—join one or both!
Now is the time to ensure the arts are front and center in legislative discussions. Don't miss your chance to gain the tools, confidence, and connections you need to make a difference.
Funding for arts organizations is more important than ever- we can never take it for granted. Register today to rally with your colleagues!
Together, we can make an impact. See you there!
REGISTER FOR WEBINARS:
STORIES THAT STICK - FEBRUARY 11 - 11 AM - 12 PM
ARGUMENTS FOR THE ARTS - FEBRUARY 20 - 11 AM - 12 PM
February Newsletter
Our latest newsletter is out! Read the February 2025 newsletter to find out about upcoming deadlines, events, exhibits, calls for art, opportunities, and more at
https://conta.cc/3PY1J8v
Make sure you sign up to get the e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Arts Grants Funding Available for Organizations
Thinking about Public Art in Your Community?
Arts Grants Funding Available!
Upcoming Deadline for Arts Grants for Organizations is February 28
Free Grant Writing Workshop February 11
Apply Now
Applications are open for arts grants for nonprofit arts organizations, communities, schools, and other nonprofit organizations from our seven county Minnesota service area including Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau counties.
Nonprofits and government organizations can apply for one arts project at a time. Upcoming grants deadlines for these are February 28. 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 these very important grant opportunities include 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. This is a great way to bring arts experiences to your community.
We are offering a grant writing workshop online or in person to assist you with your application. You are welcome to come to our office in Warren for the workshop or to work on your grants. RSVPs are required for grant writing sessions – please email director@nwartscouncil.org.
The session will be held Tuesday, February 11 at 4:00 PM. You can also set up a time to work one-on-one with our director on the grant writing process.
Schools in our seven-county region can also apply now for an Artist Residency grant of $2,600 plus an additional $400 if the residency needs supplies. Our teaching artist roster is a great resource to view artists available to teach in our area and is available on our website at www.NorthwestMinnesotaArtsCouncil.org under the artists tab. Another resource to view artists available to enhance curriculum is COMPAS.
Schools can initially apply for one residency. Then based on remaining funding, can request up to three additional residencies into spring and summer. Funding for residency activities comes from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in Minnesota.
Also available on a first come-first served basis are Quick Turnaround Grants for $500. 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.
To learn more about these 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.