Arts News

Give to the Max Day is November 17 — early giving starts Nov 1
Donate, Events Kristin Eggerling Donate, Events Kristin Eggerling

Give to the Max Day is November 17 — early giving starts Nov 1

The NWMAC is proud to participate in the 14th annual Give to the Max Day on Thursday, November 17. Give to the Max is a statewide giving event that raises millions each year for more than 6,000 causes across Minnesota and beyond. Considered Minnesota’s holiday for generosity, donors have given more than nearly $255 million since the inaugural Give to the Max Day in 2009. Consider participating in Give to the Max by donating to the NWMAC.

To participate in Give to the Max, donors may visit GiveMN.org and search for the causes they care about most by name, keyword, ZIP code, and more. Give to the Max’s “Early Giving” period begins November 1 and continues through Give to the Max Day on Nov. 17, with random drawings throughout for more than $100,000 in prize grants for Minnesota organizations.

Additionally, each donation through GiveMN.org qualifies the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council for additional grants from the Give to the Max Day prize pool, thanks to the continued generosity of the Bush Foundation. On Nov. 18, Give to the Max Day, GiveMN will award:

·       $500 Early Giving Golden Tickets daily on Nov. 1-16

·       $500 Golden Ticket prizes every 15 minutes on Nov. 17.

·       $1,000 Hourly Golden Ticket prizes hourly on Nov. 17.

·       $6,000 Power Hour Prizes, shared among the top three organizations based on amount raised between 10:00–10:59 a.m. and 10:00–10:59 p.m.

·       The grand prize of Give to the Max Day, a $10,000 Super-Sized Golden Ticket.

Will you join us with your gift supporting the arts in our region?

About GiveMN

GiveMN is an independent nonprofit organization working to ignite generosity and grow giving through GiveMN.org, Minnesota’s giving marketplace, and RaiseMN, a fundraising coaching and training program.     

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Artist Spotlight featuring TRFACT, More Drama Please!
Artist Spotlight, Events Kristin Eggerling Artist Spotlight, Events Kristin Eggerling

Artist Spotlight featuring TRFACT, More Drama Please!

Listen to TRFACT Executive Director Jane Anderson and NWMAC Staff talk about theater in NW Minnesota for youth. This discussion includes the NWMAC exhibit More Drama Please! as well as a number of other items.

Watch the discussion here.

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC)'s exhibit – More Drama Please! Open from October 4 through the end of November, this gallery exhibit features non-profit theater groups that work primarily with children in the NW Minnesota region. When you visit the exhibit you will find props, costumes, shoes, Paper-Mache creations, photos, playbills, advertising, and historical information. Many of the props and costumes are handmade and have been used in a variety of plays over the years.

The featured theater groups are Thief River Falls Area Community Theater, Middle River Community Theatre, and Fosston Community Theater. For this exhibit there are no pieces of art for sale. To view the exhibit virtually click the link below.

TRFACT Director Jane Anderson has said, “Since I am a full-time employee of the Thief River Falls ACT, theater is my working life. But it is also my non-working life. I live to create theater for the community, to educate children and adults on stage, and to bring joy and inspiration to those in the audiences. Bringing joy to others, makes me happy and whole.” Jane has much more to say during this Artist Spotlight.

The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College, 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls, MN 56701. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30-5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door B. Visitor parking is free.

This exhibit is made possible with funding from The McKnight Foundation. 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.

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North Country Fiddle & Dance Saturday, Nov 12  Live Music and Dance
Events Kristin Eggerling Events Kristin Eggerling

North Country Fiddle & Dance Saturday, Nov 12 Live Music and Dance

North Country Fiddle and Dance “Harvest Dance”

Saturday, November 12 from 7:30 to 10:00 pm

live music with the O'Neil Family Band

Caller: Jeanne O'Neil

East Grand Forks Senior Center 538 Rhinehart Dr. S.E. East Grand Forks, MN

All ages -singles, couples, families

Reels, squares, circle mixers and more...all dances are taught and easy to learn!

Donations at the door. For more info visit northcountrydance.org.

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Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Fosston Public Library
Traveling Exhibit, Events Kristin Eggerling Traveling Exhibit, Events Kristin Eggerling

Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Fosston Public Library

Traveling Art Exhibit Tours NW Minnesota Region

Visits Fosston Public Library

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. The exhibit includes 17 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 Fosston Public Library until November 22. Please stop by to see these works of art. Some of these pieces of art are for sale.

The 2022-2023 Artists and Artwork:

Ross Hier, Crookston, “Wood Splitter’s Alarm Clock” (Watercolor Painting) (Merit)

Elizabeth Kitchell-Rockstad, Ada, “Cornflower Bee” (Mosaic)

Heidi Danos, Fosston, “Hot Pink Sadness” (Mixed Media)

Stephanie Olson, Thief River Falls, “Monday’s Cat” (Painting)

Alicia Spilde, Karlstad, “Leaving” (Mixed Media)

Cindy Kolling, Gully, “Prairie Smoke” (Mixed Media/Other)

Jodi Peterson, Ada, “Cardinal” (Mosaic)

Kate Hammer, Roseau, “Abandoned” (Sculpture)

Nick Reitzel, Karlstad, “Across the Purple Sky” (Painting) (Merit)

Paulette Christianson, Badger, “Under the Orange Moon” (Pastel Drawing) (Merit)

Mason Owens, Crookston, “Peace is in the Roughness” (Wood Sculpture) (student) (Merit)

Kinsley Oslund, Grygla, “Crush” (Sculpture) (student)

Emily Balboa, Crookston, “Timeless Beauty” (Painting) (student)

Autumn Ruikka, Thief River Falls, “Bull Stamp” (Printmaking) (student)

Carlie Nehrus, Ada, “Jelly Fish” (Pen and Ink) (student)

Lakylie Brobst, Grygla, “Hayes Lake Skies” (Photography) (student) (Merit)

Paige Sturre, Thief River Falls, “Escaping the Bland” (Mixed Media/Watercolor) (student)

The 2022-2022 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:

April 29 – June 16, 2022 Hallock Public Library

June 16 – August 8, 2022 Godel Memorial Library, Warren

August 8 – September 28, 2022 Greenbush Public Library

September 28 – November 22, 2022 Fosston Public Library

November 22, 2022 – January 17, 2023 Ada Public Library

January 17 – March 1, 2023 Red Lake Falls Public Library

March 1 – April TBD** Crookston Public Library

*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.

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Tending the Creative Soul October 12
Events Kristin Eggerling Events Kristin Eggerling

Tending the Creative Soul October 12

For our Tending the Creative Soul we will be exploring "The Practice of Observing Art." The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston Texas has a four step practice of how to "look" at art. We will be experiencing their four steps of Look, Describe, Think, and Connect with various pieces of art. If you have a favorite art piece you would like to share for the practice please "bring" it.

Our next TCS is Wednesday, October 12 from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. This event is online via Zoom. Reach out to Trey for a Zoom invite.

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More Drama Please! NWMAC Gallery Exhibit is open
NCTC Gallery, Art Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling NCTC Gallery, Art Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling

More Drama Please! NWMAC Gallery Exhibit is open

More Drama Please!

Featuring Photos, Costumes, Props and More from Area Theater Groups

Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery

NCTC in Thief River Falls October 4 - November 30

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce our exhibit – More Drama Please! Open from October 4 through the end of November, this gallery exhibit features non-profit theater groups that work primarily with children in the NW Minnesota region. When you visit the exhibit you will find props, costumes, shoes, Paper-Mache creations, photos, playbills, advertising, and historical information. Many of the props and costumes are handmade and have been used in a variety of plays over the years.

The featured theater groups are Thief River Falls Area Community Theater, Middle River Community Theatre, and Fosston Community Theater. For this exhibit there are no pieces of art for sale.

TRFACT Director Jane Anderson said, “Since I am a full-time employee of the Thief River Falls ACT, theater is my working life. But it is also my non-working life. I live to create theater for the community, to educate children and adults on stage, and to bring joy and inspiration to those in the audiences. Bringing joy to others, makes me happy and whole.”

Kay Dell Super of the Middle River Community Theatre explained, “Directing children/students on stage has been a highlight of my life. Striving to implant teamwork, self-confidence, and compassion into children in today's world seems impossible at times with all the "outside noise of society" filling their minds and hearts. I feel drama is a great avenue for such qualities ... it forces them to focus and concentrate on the world around them. To combine two loves of children and theatre is a gift!”

The Fosston Community Library & Arts Association (FCLAA) Theater Program has been thriving for decades. Their Children's Summer Theater Program has run continuously since the mid-1980s. In 2019 "Mary Poppins, Jr." was performed with donated costumes by an anonymous patron. Included with the donation was a note stating that this dress, along with others, was made in the early 1900s. Director Abby Pearson shared, “Mary Poppins was a delight to costume and cast. Children in 3rd -12th grades were able to be a part of the ensemble. One of the Directors favorite parts of the show was creating the illusion of magic. It was so much fun for the students to brainstorm ways to make the illusion work. Students are involved in every aspect of the show to give them a well-rounded experience in theater.”

NWMAC Showcase Specialist Trey Everett said, "I love the enthusiasm of the theater directors. They are passionate about youth being involved in and experiencing the world of drama and acting. Many of the high-quality props and costumes in the exhibit are homemade and have been used throughout the years. The creativity of the directors, staff, youth, parents, costume designers, prop engineers, artists, and photographers is evident in this wonderful exhibit."

The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College, 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls, MN 56701. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30-5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door B. Visitor parking is free.

Stay tuned for an online discussion with the theater directors. You will be able to watch this Artist Spotlight on Facebook Live or YouTube Live. Visit the NWMAC Facebook page or YouTube page for more information. The Artist Spotlight will also be available to view at any time after the live broadcast. Reach out to us with questions.

For more information about our exhibits or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com. This exhibit is made possible with funding from The McKnight Foundation. 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.

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Tending the Creative Soul September 14
Events, Resources Kristin Eggerling Events, Resources Kristin Eggerling

Tending the Creative Soul September 14

Tending the Creative Soul will be Wednesday, September 14 from 5:00 to 6:00 PM. This event is online and open to anyone who would like to join. Email Trey for a Zoom invite at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com.

We will be exploring Creativity and Music. How does music influence your creative process? If you are a musician what helps you get into the flow? Who or what styles of music are some of your inspirations? If you aren't a musician how do you experience music as a creative force? Please join us!

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Need Assistance? Grant Writing Training for Individuals Sept 14
Events, Grants Kristin Eggerling Events, Grants Kristin Eggerling

Need Assistance? Grant Writing Training for Individuals Sept 14

We are offering a grant writing training for individuals on Wednesday, September 14 at 4:00 PM. NWMAC Director Mara Hanel will walk you through the grant application process and answer all your questions! You can attend the training in person at our office in Warren or meet with Mara virtually.

RSVPs are required. Let us know if you’d like to participate in person or virtually. Or you can set up a time to work one-on-one with our director on the grant writing process.

There is no cost for the training.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to write your arts grant! You are welcome to come to our office in Warren at other times to work on your grants in our new setting. Please email Mara at director@nwartscouncil.org or call 218-745-8886.

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Dynamic Voices: A Collection of Work by Women Artists of NW Minnesota
Art Exhibits, NCTC Gallery, Events Kristin Eggerling Art Exhibits, NCTC Gallery, Events Kristin Eggerling

Dynamic Voices: A Collection of Work by Women Artists of NW Minnesota

Dynamic Voices:

A Collection of Work by Women Artists of NW Minnesota

Where: Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery

NCTC in Thief River Falls

When: August 8 - September 28

Artist Reception Wednesday, September 28 from 5- 7pm

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce our exhibit – Dynamic Voices: A Collection of Work by Women Artists of NW Minnesota. The exhibit is open from Monday, August 8 to Wednesday, September 28 at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College, 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls, MN 56701.

Artists include Connie Nelson of Hallock, Rachel Gustafson of Hallock, Therese Jacobson of Alvarado, Heidi Danos of Fosston, and Stephanie Olson of Thief River Falls.

To experience the exhibit virtually click here.

You won’t want to miss this exhibit! Please join us for a free Artist Reception with the artists on Wednesday, September 28 from 5 to 7 pm at the gallery. Refreshments will be served.

Many pieces of art in this exhibit are for sale. You are welcome to purchase at any time and pick up when the exhibit ends.

The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30-5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door B. Visitor parking is free.

Stay tuned for an online discussion with the artists. You will be able to watch this Artist Spotlight on Facebook Live or YouTube Live. Visit the NWMAC Facebook page or YouTube page for more information. The Artist Spotlight will also be available to view at any time after the live broadcast. Reach out to us with questions.

If you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, contact Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com. This exhibit is made possible with funding from The McKnight Foundation. 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.

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North Country Fiddle & Dance Heritage Days Concerts — Aug 13 & 14
Events Kristin Eggerling Events Kristin Eggerling

North Country Fiddle & Dance Heritage Days Concerts — Aug 13 & 14

North Country Fiddle and Dance presents Heritage Days Concerts Aug 13 & Aug 14, 2022

Free Admission, Heritage Days activities on-going

Where:

East Grand Forks Heritage Village, 219 20th St. N.E,. East Grand Forks

When:

August 13 at 1:30 pm – Dean and Peggy Ellingson - a light hearted romp featuring antique tunes and vintage songs to entertain the young at heart.

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Artist Reception with Debbie Aune
Events, NCTC Gallery Kristin Eggerling Events, NCTC Gallery Kristin Eggerling

Artist Reception with Debbie Aune

Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery

NCTC in Thief River Falls

Artist Reception Wednesday, June 22 from 4 to 6 pm

 The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce an artist reception for our exhibit -- Nature’s Offerings: An Art Exhibit Featuring Works by Debbie Dahl Aune and Other NW Minnesota Artists. The exhibit is open from May 25 to August 1 at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls.

Please join us for a free reception to meet with Artist Debbie Dahl Aune and see the exhibit. Refreshments will be served!

Nature’s Offerings is a broad concept. Everything we need as human beings has been provided by Nature -- food, water, shelter, medicine, and every material object we have ever created or will ever create as human beings. Nature delivers natural cycles of the year, warmth and coolness, fire and water, oceans and rivers, and the air we breathe. Besides all the tangible offerings, Nature also provides intangible qualities of healing, rejuvenation, and inspiration. When we spend time by a river, take a walk in the snow, look at a sunset, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights we receive healing. Nature helps lower blood pressure, calm our anxious minds, cause us to stare in wonder and awe, and brings connection and consolation when we feel alone and distant.

According to featured Artist Debbie Dahl Aune, “My daily dose of nature consists of a good, long walk. If you ask me, getting outside coupled with a walk is the very best medicine for aches, a sour mood, general well-being and health. There is one, even more exhilarating activity besides walking that takes us outdoors; painting en plein air. En plein air, a French phrase that means “in the open air,” describes the process of painting outdoors. No exercise or procedure will loosen up the brushstroke more than painting in the present, at the moment, and on site. Knowing the light is going to change, those shapes, values and colors better get laid down quick! No time for fussy, unnecessary details. Warm sunshine, exquisite bird songs and flowers make the experience that much more divine. Periodically, a mischievous gust of wind will topple my easel, but that just comes with the territory.

Aune went on to explain that her pieces in this exhibit “consist mostly of watercolor paintings about berry picking in the Beltrami Forest with family and friends. Several paintings were initiated on site and then finished in my studio. My uncle Melvin Hesse, Aunt Peggy and friend Betty Amiot are the senior members of our berry picking family. My Mom, Dad and Uncle Raymond aren’t far behind when there’s talk of a blueberry picnic. Several other family members can be found sprinkled about my blueberry compositions. Bring on the bug spray, hats, and pickles. And dear Lord, I hope there are blueberries this year!”

Aune lives in Gatzke and teaches art at Greenbush-Middle River Public School. She has exhibited her artwork in many exhibits in our region, including several solo shows. She has received numerous awards for her artwork at NW Minnesota Arts Council Exhibits. She has also been awarded many grants for her art, as well.

You won’t want to miss this exhibit! We can’t wait to see you at the free Artist Reception with Debbie and others on Wednesday, June 22 from 4 to 6 pm at the gallery.

Many pieces of art in this exhibit are for sale. You are welcome to purchase at any time and pick up when the exhibit ends.

The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30-5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door A. Visitor parking is free.

You can also join us for an online discussion with Debbie Dahl Aune on Friday, June 24 at noon. You can watch this Artist Spotlight on Facebook Live or YouTube Live. Visit the NWMAC Facebook page or YouTube page for more information. The Artist Spotlight will also be available to view at any time after the live broadcast. Reach out to us with questions.

If you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com. This exhibit is made possible with funding from The McKnight Foundation. 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.  

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Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Godel Memorial Library in Warren
Traveling Exhibit, Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling Traveling Exhibit, Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling

Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Godel Memorial Library in Warren

Traveling Art Exhibit Tours NW Minnesota Region

Visits Godel Memorial Library in Warren

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. The exhibit includes 17 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 Godel Memorial Library in Warren until August 8. Please stop by to see these works of art. Some of these pieces of art are for sale.

The 2022-2023 Artists and Artwork:

Ross Hier, Crookston, “Wood Splitter’s Alarm Clock” (Watercolor Painting) (Merit)

Elizabeth Kitchell-Rockstad, Ada, “Cornflower Bee” (Mosaic)

Heidi Danos, Fosston, “Hot Pink Sadness” (Mixed Media)

Stephanie Olson, Thief River Falls, “Monday’s Cat” (Painting)

Alicia Spilde, Karlstad, “Leaving” (Mixed Media)

Cindy Kolling, Gully, “Prairie Smoke” (Mixed Media/Other)

Jodi Peterson, Ada, “Cardinal” (Mosaic)

Kate Hammer, Roseau, “Abandoned” (Sculpture)

Nick Reitzel, Karlstad, “Across the Purple Sky” (Painting) (Merit)

Paulette Christianson, Badger, “Under the Orange Moon” (Pastel Drawing) (Merit)

Mason Owens, Crookston, “Peace is in the Roughness” (Wood Sculpture) (student) (Merit)

Kinsley Oslund, Grygla, “Crush” (Sculpture) (student)

Emily Balboa, Crookston, “Timeless Beauty” (Painting) (student)

Autumn Ruikka, Thief River Falls, “Bull Stamp” (Printmaking) (student)

Carlie Nehrus, Ada, “Jelly Fish” (Pen and Ink) (student)

Lakylie Brobst, Grygla, “Hayes Lake Skies” (Photography) (student) (Merit)

Paige Sturre, Thief River Falls, “Escaping the Bland” (Mixed Media/Watercolor) (student)

The 2022-2022 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:

April 29 – June 16, 2022 Hallock Public Library

June 16 – August 8, 2022 Godel Memorial Library, Warren

August 8 – September 28, 2022 Greenbush Public Library

September 28 – November 22, 2022 Fosston Public Library

November 22, 2022 – January 17, 2023 Ada Public Library

January 17 – March 1, 2023 Red Lake Falls Public Library

March 1 – April TBD** Crookston Public Library

*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.

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Nature’s Offerings: An Art Exhibit featuring Debbie Dahl Aune’s Watercolors & Works by Others
Exhibits, NCTC Gallery, Events Kristin Eggerling Exhibits, NCTC Gallery, Events Kristin Eggerling

Nature’s Offerings: An Art Exhibit featuring Debbie Dahl Aune’s Watercolors & Works by Others

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce our exhibit -- Nature’s Offerings: An Art Exhibit Featuring Works by Debbie Dahl Aune and Other NW Minnesota Artists. The exhibit is open from May 25 to August 1 at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls.

Nature’s Offerings is a broad concept. Everything we need as human beings has been provided by Nature -- food, water, shelter, medicine, and every material object we have ever created or will ever create as human beings. Nature delivers natural cycles of the year, warmth and coolness, fire and water, oceans and rivers, and the air we breathe. Besides all the tangible offerings, Nature also provides intangible qualities of healing, rejuvenation, and inspiration. When we spend time by a river, take a walk in the snow, look at a sunset, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights we receive healing. Nature helps lower blood pressure, calm our anxious minds, cause us to stare in wonder and awe, and brings connection and consolation when we feel alone and distant.

According to featured Artist Debbie Dahl Aune, “My daily dose of nature consists of a good, long walk. If you ask me, getting outside coupled with a walk is the very best medicine for aches, a sour mood, general well-being and health. There is one, even more exhilarating activity besides walking that takes us outdoors; painting en plein air. En plein air, a French phrase that means “in the open air,” describes the process of painting outdoors. No exercise or procedure will loosen up the brushstroke more than painting in the present, at the moment, and on site. Knowing the light is going to change, those shapes, values and colors better get laid down quick! No time for fussy, unnecessary details. Warm sunshine, exquisite bird songs and flowers make the experience that much more divine. Periodically, a mischievous gust of wind will topple my easel, but that just comes with the territory.

Aune went on to explain that her pieces in this exhibit “consist mostly of watercolor paintings about berry picking in the Beltrami Forest with family and friends. Several paintings were initiated on site and then finished in my studio. My uncle Melvin Hesse, Aunt Peggy and friend Betty Amiot are the senior members of our berry picking family. My Mom, Dad and Uncle Raymond aren’t far behind when there’s talk of a blueberry picnic. Several other family members can be found sprinkled about my blueberry compositions. Bring on the bug spray, hats, and pickles. And dear Lord, I hope there are blueberries this year!”

Aune lives in Gatzke and teaches art at Greenbush-Middle River Public School. She has exhibited her artwork in many exhibits in our region, including several solo shows. She has received numerous awards for her artwork at NW Minnesota Arts Council Exhibits. She has also been awarded many grants for her art, as well.

A workshop for the public was held to help create pieces for the exhibit.

Trey Everett shared, "I loved watching participants in the workshop create using objects found in nature. From rocks to branches. leaves to roots, antlers to leather, clay to shells... some fun and powerful pieces of artwork emerged."

Artists in addition to Aune include CL Nelson of Hallock, Mara Hanel of Warren, Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla, Sherri Kukowski of Badger, Mary Ann Laxen of East Grand Forks, Cindy Kolling of Gully, Kristin Eggerling of Hallock, Ross Hier of Crookston, and Badger students Noah G, Kaitlyn Gust, Cale Lindland, and Peyton Lee.

You won’t want to miss this exhibit! Please join us for a free Artist Reception with Debbie and others on Wednesday, June 22 from 4 to 6 pm at the gallery. Refreshments will be served.

Many pieces of art in this exhibit are for sale. You are welcome to purchase at any time and pick up when the exhibit ends.

The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8:30-5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door A. Visitor parking is free.

Please join us for an online discussion with Debbie Dahl Aune on Tuesday, June 21 at 4 pm. You can watch this Artist Spotlight on Facebook Live or YouTube Live. Visit the NWMAC Facebook page or YouTube page for more information. The Artist Spotlight will also be available to view at any time after the live broadcast. Reach out to us with questions.

If you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com. This exhibit is made possible with funding from The McKnight Foundation. 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.

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Area Community Theater of Thief River Falls Announces Season
Events, Theater Kristin Eggerling Events, Theater Kristin Eggerling

Area Community Theater of Thief River Falls Announces Season

Thief River Falls Area Community Theater Announces Season

The Area Community Theater of Thief River Falls has announced casts and its schedule of shows for summer 2022. This is the A.C.T.’s 27th continuous season of summer theater on stage at Northland Community and Technical College. According to Executive Director Jane Anderson, “We’ve persevered through the COVID pandemic, keeping our actors and audiences in mind throughout this unusual and difficult time. We’ve continued to produce our weekly radio show on Tuesdays at 5:00 p.m. on Pioneer 90.1 FM. We even sneaked in a small-cast comedy last November between waves of COVID. During the summer of 2021, we staged two youth programs with limited audiences, while also streaming those shows online. We are proud of our resistance and the ability to create under the circumstances, but we are beyond delighted to be back on stage in front of full-capacity, live audiences this summer. We’ve selected three blockbuster shows that audiences and actors have been begging for—now is the time!”

The summer season will open on June 14 when Nunsensations! The Vegas Revue by Dan Goggin opens for a four-day run. Directing Nunsensations! is Jane Anderson, with Lisa Swanson, Leah Wattenphul, Rene Mooney, Kristal Kozicki, Ginger Kirkeby and Carl Dahlberg in the cast. Brianna Geer accompanies. Join the Little Sisters of Hoboken as they navigate their way around Sin City with singing, dancing and loads of laughs. Performances run each evening from June 14-17.

Next up in the summer line-up is Annie KIDS. This is an all-children’s version of the class beloved show about America’s favorite orphan. Our cast includes Karmyn Augustine as Annie; Kora Fuhrer, Lilly Bregier, Ophelia Mooney, Janaya Albers, Jaelynn Artmann, Olivia Sterry as the Orphans, Zoey Taggatz as Miss Hannigan, Rhesa Wattenphul as Grace Farrel, Sam Barth as Rooster, Cambry Carr as Lily, Braxton Eidelbes as Daddy Warbucks, Clarice St. Germain as Sandy and an orphan, Chava Wattenphul as Bundles, Lainey Boman as an Apple Seller and Star-to-Be, Zachary Ostercamp at Lt. Ward, Michael Dehaan as President Roosevelt, Isabel Kainz as Usherette and orphan, Joey Michalke and Josie Artmann as members of the ensemble playing multiple parts. There is room for a few more cast members for Annie KIDS. Contact Jane Anderson at trfact56701@gmail for more information.

Annie KIDS will run June 28-30.

The final show of the 2022 summer season is Beauty & the Beast Jr. This features an all-teen cast, which includes Alainna Lunsetter as Belle, Odin Mooney as the Beast, Logan Ballard as Maurice, Levi German as Gaston, Luquis Moser at Lefou, Olivia Wojahn as Lumiere, Liam Stavos as Cogsworth, Javyn Eidelbes as Mrs. Potts, Sadie Johnson at Babette, Andraya Bakken as Madame Wardrobe, and Wyatt Novak as Chip. The ensemble for Beauty & the Beastincludes Emma Westerman, Amellia Ballard, Aiden Eidelbes, Alyssa Foster, Annabelle Simoneau, Madelyn David, Alannah Fitzgerald, Karena Bakken, Riley Poppitz, Akilah Grahn, Hailee Eidelbes, Olivia Mooney, Anita Foster, Amelie Heaton, Madison Poissant and Danielle German.

Beauty & the Beast Jr. will run July 27-29.

All performances begin at 7 p.m. at the NCTC Theater.

Tickets are on sale at Hope Pediatrics in Thief River Falls during business hours. You may also purchase tickets online through www.trfact.org, and at the door on nights of the performances.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council and the Minnesota State Arts Board thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

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Traveling Art Exhibit Tours NW Minnesota. First Stop Hallock
Traveling Exhibit, Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling Traveling Exhibit, Exhibits, Events Kristin Eggerling

Traveling Art Exhibit Tours NW Minnesota. First Stop Hallock

Traveling Art Exhibit Tours NW Minnesota Region

Visits Hallock Public Library

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. The exhibit includes 17 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 Hallock Public Library until June 16. Please stop by to see these works of art as this is the first stop for this traveling exhibit. Some of these pieces of art are for sale.

The 2022-2023 Artists and Artwork:

Ross Hier, Crookston, “Wood Splitter’s Alarm Clock” (Watercolor Painting) (Merit)

Elizabeth Kitchell-Rockstad, Ada, “Cornflower Bee” (Mosaic)

Heidi Danos, Fosston, “Hot Pink Sadness” (Mixed Media)

Stephanie Olson, Thief River Falls, “Monday’s Cat” (Painting)

Alicia Spilde, Karlstad, “Leaving” (Mixed Media)

Cindy Kolling, Gully, “Prairie Smoke” (Mixed Media/Other)

Jodi Peterson, Ada, “Cardinal” (Mosaic)

Kate Hammer, Roseau, “Abandoned” (Sculpture)

Nick Reitzel, Karlstad, “Across the Purple Sky” (Painting) (Merit)

Paulette Christianson, Badger, “Under the Orange Moon” (Pastel Drawing) (Merit)

Mason Owens, Crookston, “Peace is in the Roughness” (Wood Sculpture) (student) (Merit)

Kinsley Oslund, Grygla, “Crush” (Sculpture) (student)

Emily Balboa, Crookston, “Timeless Beauty” (Painting) (student)

Autumn Ruikka, Thief River Falls, “Bull Stamp” (Printmaking) (student)

Carlie Nehrus, Ada, “Jelly Fish” (Pen and Ink) (student)

Lakylie Brobst, Grygla, “Hayes Lake Skies” (Photography) (student) (Merit)

Paige Sturre, Thief River Falls, “Escaping the Bland” (Mixed Media/Watercolor) (student)

The 2022-2022 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:

April 29 – June 16, 2022 Hallock Public Library

June 16 – August 8, 2022 Godel Memorial Library, Warren

August 8 – September 28, 2022 Greenbush Public Library

September 28 – November 22, 2022 Fosston Public Library

November 22, 2022 – January 17, 2023 Ada Public Library

January 17 – March 1, 2023 Red Lake Falls Public Library

March 1 – April TBD** Crookston Public Library

*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 call our office at (218)-745-8886, email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or contact Trey at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com or NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com.

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Fiddlers on the Green May 14
Events Kristin Eggerling Events Kristin Eggerling

Fiddlers on the Green May 14

Fiddlers on the Green, sponsored by North Country Fiddle and Dance

May 14th 11:00 to 3:00

East Grand Forks Heritage Village 219 20th St. N.E.

Featuring concerts by:

11:00 - The O'Neil Family Band, from East Grand Forks - A unique blend of fiddle styles, including traditional and original reels, jigs, waltzes, hornpipes, interspersed with step dancing.

12:30 - Leatherwood, from Bemidji - Lively old time fiddle tunes and lighthearted songs that will have you smiling and tapping your toes.

2:00 - Alex Conwell, from Grand Forks - A mixture of folk fiddle and contemporary violin with a cosmic twist tied together with a looping pedal.

Free admission

This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council through funding from the Minnesota State Legislature with money from the State's general fund.

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Art Creation Workshop April 27 — RSVP now
Events, workshops Kristin Eggerling Events, workshops Kristin Eggerling

Art Creation Workshop April 27 — RSVP now

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is Offering an

Art Creation Workshop April 27 in Thief River Falls

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce a FREE Creative Art Session Workshop to create work for an upcoming exhibit – Nature’s Offerings in June and July. The workshop will be held at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls from 4 to 5:30 pm on April 27. You must RSVP.

Nature’s Offerings is a broad concept. Everything we need as human beings has been given to us by Nature. Food, water, shelter, medicine, resources for creating our homes, our smart phones, and every material object we have ever created or will ever create as human beings. Nature provides natural cycles of the year, warmth and coolness, fire and water, oceans and rivers, and the air we breathe. Nature offers us the natural cycles of the seasons so that we can plant and harvest. All our canning, baking, seasoning, and meals we prepare and eat are ultimately given from Nature.

Besides all the tangible offerings, Nature also provides intangible qualities of healing, rejuvenation, and inspiration. When we spend time by a river, take a walk in the snow, look at a sunset, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights we receive healing. Nature helps lower blood pressure, calm our anxious minds, cause us to stare in wonder and awe, and brings connection and consolation when we feel alone and distant.

During this free session, attendees will be able to create a 3-dimensional creative piece that represents what "Nature's Offerings" means to them. Participants don't have to consider themselves an artist to join this workshop. Artwork created in the workshop will become part of the gallery exhibit for June and July. Supplies will be provided, but participants are welcome to bring items from nature if they like. Examples include deer antlers, animal skulls or bones, branches, dried fruit, rocks, and dried grasses or flowers. This is a low stress, fun time to create whatever inspires at NO cost.

Space is limited for this free class. RSVPs are required. Sign up by emailing Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com.

Following the workshop, the NW Art Exhibit reception and program will be held. Come to experience the NW Art Exhibit and celebrate the exhibit’s artists and Of the Year awardees.

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