Arts News
Upcoming Exhibit: dynamic voices: a collection of work by women artists of nw minnesota
Stay tuned for our upcoming exhibit — dynamic voices: a collection of work by women artists of nw minnesota at the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River. The exhibit will open from August 8 to September 28. More information to come!
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.
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.
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.
Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Red Lake Falls for Final Stop
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. The exhibit includes 15 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 late April. Please stop by to see these works of art as this is the final stop for this traveling exhibit. Stay tuned for the upcoming schedule and locations for our next exhibit.
The 2021-2022 Artists and Artwork:
Aubree Bonham, Fertile, “No Evil” (Mixed Media) (student)
Riley Moland, Fertile, “Unique Askew” (Acrylic) (student)
Heidi Danos, Fosston, “Never Apologize” (Mixed Media)
Peggy Branden, Lake Bronson, “Emerging” (Mixed Media)
Glen Heppner, Warroad, “Pelican” (Oil Painting)
Lucille Nelson, Argyle, “Lending a Hand” (Drawing)
Bert Foster, Thief River Falls, “Old Man Resting” (Photograph)
Christine Foster, Thief River Falls, “Bridge to the Past” (Oil Painting)
Brennon Collins, Greenbush, “Lake Lounging” (Print) (student)
Phyllis Kalliokoski, East Grand Forks, “Amalfi Coast” (Watercolor Painting)
Dara Maunu, Warroad, “Whimsical Walks 1” (Acrylic Painting)
Cindy Kolling, Gully, “Snapping Turtle Laying Eggs” (Drawing)
James Johanneck, Red Lake Falls, “Buckthorn Root Ball Vase” (Wood Sculpture)
Eskyla Manriquez, Ada, “Air Jordan 1 Chicago Black Toe” (Sculpture) (student)
Trinity Walseth, Goodridge, “Titles of Trinity” (Print) (student)
The 2021-2022 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:
August 27– September 22, 2021 Hallock Public Library, Hallock
September 22–October 14, 2021 East Grand Forks Campbell Library
October 15–Nov 17, 2021 Ada Public Library
Nov 17–Dec 16, 2021 Fertile Public Library
Dec 16, 2021– January 12, 2022 Thief River Falls Public Library
January 12 – February 16, 2022 Fosston Public Library
February 16 -- March 16, 2022 Crookston Public Library
March 25 -- April TBD** Red Lake Falls 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.
NW Minnesota Annual Art Exhibit Open Until April 27
The Northwest Minnesota Annual Art Exhibit Open Through April 27
NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls
Reception and Program on April 27 to
Honor Exhibit and Of the Year Award Winners
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce the NW Annual Art Exhibit is in Thief River Falls until April 27.
Adult artists from our 7 county- service region (Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau and Red Lake Falls) have entered 60 pieces of art, including photography, sculpture, drawings, and paintings, into this exhibit and will be competing for $2,300.00 in cash awards. Attendees at the exhibit can vote for People’s Choice. Exhibit cash award winners will be chosen while the exhibit is on display by a qualified juror. They will be recognized and receive their check at the Artist Reception.
About our juror: Matthew Anderson is from the rural town of Gackle, North Dakota. He earned his BA from Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD, and his MFA from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks. He is currently the Director of Education for the North Dakota Museum of Art. He has exhibited his works nationally and internationally and is a part of public and private collections.
The student art will be included in the exhibit on April 11 and will also be eligible for cash awards.
The exhibit is at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls and will be open for the public to view art during the week from 8:30 am - 5 pm and at other times when events are held at the college. Enter through Door A. Visitor parking is free in the large end lot.
There will be a reception on April 27 at the gallery. According to NWMAC Director Mara Hanel,
“Our artist reception is a great time to celebrate our award winners and the talented residents from our area. Please attend to show your support and see the high-quality art on display. Reception day this year, includes an art creation workshop from 4:00 - 5:30. Come early to make a piece centered around the theme of nature and nature's offerings. Pieces created will remain at our gallery and be part of our next showcase. Registration for the workshop is encouraged so we can prepare correctly. I look forward to this reception each year since it is an annual highlight!"
Mingling, dessert, and live music begin at 7:00 pm and the program at 7:30 pm in the auditorium. Of the Year Awards, the NW Star Award -- Lifetime Achievement, Artist of the Year, and Arts Advocate of the Year will be presented. 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 27 at the reception. The reception is a wonderful day of celebrating the arts in our region.
To sign up for the art creation workshop around the theme of nature within the visual art classroom, email nwartscouncil@gmail.com. Funding for these awards is provided by the McKnight Foundation and the Minnesota State Legislature.
Call for Art: Nature’s Offerings
Call for Art for Nature’s Offerings Exhibit. A special call to folk artists. Exhibit will be open June and July 2022. Deadline for Submissions is no later than May 13. Nature’s Offerings: Why is it that we feel a sense of healing and rejuvenation when we spend time in nature? Consider creating art from nature for this exhibit! Questions and to submit your art, contact Trey Everett at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com.
Applications Open for NW MN Annual Art Exhibit — Apply Now
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce our latest “Call for Entries” for the 2022 Annual Art Exhibit.
The deadline to submit your artwork is February 28, 2022!
This year, the annual Art Exhibit will be in Thief River Falls at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College. Artwork will be immediately put up for viewing at our gallery starting March 7 through the end of April.
Artists from our 7 county- service region can enter into this art exhibit and will be competing for $2,300 in cash awards. Artists must reside in Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau, or Red Lake counties to be eligible. Both adult and student artists are encouraged to enter. Exhibit cash award winners will be chosen while the exhibit is on display by a qualified juror. They will be recognized and receive their check at the Artist Reception in Thief River Falls at the end of April.
If you would like the application mailed to you, please contact our office 218-745-8886 or director@nwartscouncil.org. The application must be submitted no later than February 28, 2022.
NWMAC Exhibit Celebrations: The Ceramic Art of Betsy Saurdiff
Celebrations: The Ceramic Art of Betsy Saurdiff
Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery
NCTC in Thief River Falls through February 28
Artist Reception Saturday, February 12 from 3 to 5 pm
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce Celebrations: The Ceramic Art of Betsy Saurdiff. The exhibit is open through February 28, 2021 at the NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls.
People love to celebrate special occasions. This new collection of pottery will make these celebrations even more special. We serve birthday cakes on pedestal stands to elevate the celebration both literally and figuratively. We can use “potluck pots” at picnics and reunions to keep our salads safe and cool because of the lower ice compartment. Graduates appreciate mugs with the two-word inspirational sayings. Little covered jars hold special treasures for any occasion. Decanters with matching cups also make drinking juice, liquor or wine more special. Punch bowls bring back memories of celebrations like baptisms, confirmations and birthdays. Somehow the punch seems to taste better out of a punchbowl.
The ultimate celebration is the celebration of life. Saurdiff explained, “I explored the classic urn form, which I threw in one piece on the potter’s wheel. I was motivated to create urns when I went to the funeral of my high school art teacher, who introduced me to clay. He had made his own funerary urn in a style I recognized right away as being his own. Some art is put on the shelf or on the wall without interaction, a passive statement by the artist to be interpreted by the viewer. Functional pottery crosses this divide because it is meant to be touched and used, a conversation between the pottery and the user. This is why I make functional pottery. I hope you enjoy the exhibit.”
Betsy Saurdiff lives in Grygla and studied Art and German at Bemidji State University and the University of Minnesota. Highlights of her career include two McKnight Fellowship Awards, two Merit Awards at the NW MN Arts Council exhibit and Art Advocate of the Year. She has sold her functional pottery at local businesses and art fairs. She recently retired from teaching and began selling her pottery online. You can find her at https://bettspottery.com/.
You won’t want to miss this pottery exhibit! Please join us for an Artist Reception with Betsy on Saturday, February 12 from 3 to 5 pm at the gallery.
Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Fertile Public Library
Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Fertile Public Library
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. After a break last year due to the pandemic, the exhibit will once again be coming to your area. The exhibit includes 15 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 Fertile Public Library in Fertile until December 16.
Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Ada Public Library
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) sponsors an annual Traveling Art Exhibit, which visits northwest Minnesota communities throughout the year. After a break last year due to the pandemic, the exhibit will once again be coming to your area. The exhibit includes 15 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 Ada Public Library in Ada until November 17. The Ada Library is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 8 pm and on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 6 pm. Please stop by to see these works of art.
Parenthood Art Exhibit May 2019
Come to the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) Gallery in East Grand Forks at the Riverwalk Centre (movie theater mall) to see the new Parenthood Art Exhibit. This collection is meant to explore and celebrate parenthood and is open between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. We have gathered art created by northwest Minnesota artists that is related to parenthood through its very creation (made by parents and their children), art that involves parenthood in its content, functional art that lives in the everyday of parenthood, and art that cracks open parenthood—and childhood—just a little bit more.
Artist Therese Jacobson’s painting captures a scene with her daughter cooking with her granddaughter. Therese explained that this “is what parenting is all about. Children learn from involvement. This was a very meaningful, joyful and calm moment.”
Fiber Works and Rosemaling Exhibit featuring Cathy Forgit and Jean Honl 2019
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is excited to present the Fiber Works and Rosemaling Exhibit featuring artists Cathy Forgit and Jean Honl.
Cathy Forgit (Fertile, Minnesota) shares pieces that harken back to the “olden days”: coverlet patterns from the past, hides from primitive sheep once used to keep the sleeping warm, striking block patterns, and one wool rug spun from the wool of her own sheep.
Jean Honl (Roseau, Minnesota) not only decorates functional pieces with rosemaling, she constructs those pieces herself. She has her own woodshop where she builds pieces such as the chair on display in the gallery. And then she adorns them with rosemaling, a traditional Norwegian style.
Working in these different mediums, Forgit and Honl have brought the bright and bold colors many of us have been missing this time of year! Come visit the Fiber Works and Rosemaling Exhibit at the NWMAC gallery now through May 11. The gallery is located at 211 DeMers Avenue, East Grand Forks, MN 56721 (located within the Riverwalk Artists Gallery.) The gallery hours are Friday–Saturday, 2:00–8:00 P.M. and Sunday, 2:00–5:00 P.M. (But before you go, please double check to make sure the gallery is open.) Details on the artists reception will be forthcoming.
Fresh Voices Exhibit 2019
Fresh Voices Exhibit
Jan 28
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) invites you to visit the Fresh Voices Exhibit, now on display at the NWMAC Gallery in East Grand Forks, Minnesota.
Based in Crookston, Minnesota, Fresh Voices has been dedicated to the support, encouragement, and celebration of art of local Latino youth for over twenty years. Come view a selection of their most recent photographs and written works.
The Fresh Voices Exhibit will be shown now through March 1 at the NWMAC Gallery at 211 DeMers Avenue, East Grand Forks, MN 56721 (located within the Riverwalk Artists Gallery.) The gallery hours are Friday–Saturday, 2:00–8:00 P.M. and Sunday, 2:00–5:00 P.M. (But before you go, please double check to make sure the gallery is open.)
Equality and Respect for All Exhibit
Equality and Respect for All Exhibit
June 22 to August 19, 2017
Stop by to see this powerful display!
Where: River Walk Artists Gallery and Gift Shop
211 DeMers Avenue, East Grand Forks
When: Thursday - Saturday 2-8pm, Sundays 2-5pm
In a response to recent and ongoing events occurring on local, national and international levels, NWMAC partnered with residents of our region to participate in a series of workshops as a platform to let human rights voices be heard. The workshops, led by Trey Everett and Janet Johnson, sought to remind everyone of their importance and equality, despite differences in background, race, gender and sexual orientation. Fifty-six 12 x12 canvases were created and discussed, revolving around our theme of Equality and Respect for All. Along with the canvases, spoken word, poetry and performing arts were also submitted to be viewed on a video screen in the gallery. Through this exhibit, we are striving to inspire people to process current events through artistic expression.
There will be an artist reception on Saturday, August 19 during the Art and Wine Walk from 3:00-5:00pm. Stop by to meet the artists from throughout our region! The exhibit will be closing afterwards.
Here is a listing of the of art with the artist name and explanation of each piece.
1 / Lady Liberty Persists; Stripes of Many Colors. Kristin Eggerling, Hallock, MN
The Statue of Liberty is a beacon, giving us strength; she is standing rm, unwavering throughout this storm with her lit torch reminding us what we stand for. The colors of this piece represent the diversity of who we are and what we bring to this world. This diversity is the depth in our society. Without it, what is the point?
2 / Stop the Hate. Peggy Montebello, Warroad, MN
Stop the hate... one “heart” at a time. My thoughts are... if each person does their part to stop hate, it will fix itself.
3 / As Barriers Break, Freedom of Life Releases and Grows. Michelle Walka, Mayville, ND
When thinking about equality and respect for all, I also think of many barriers that prevent us from embodying this with one another and within ourselves. These barriers are represented in the textured tape that blends in with the background. This “blending in” also signi es how often barriers become a part of a dominant norm, where it is dif cult to “see” how our beliefs, behaviors, and created systems actually perpetuate and solidify these barriers against equality and respect for all. However, as these barriers break open, our hearts also break open for one another. When equality and respect for all is embodied and lived out in our communities, there is freedom for life and freedom to grow. This is represented in the burst of colors and movement within the painting.
4 / All Lives Matter. Margaret Ehling, Red Lake Falls, MN
For so many years, I have thought soon we will realize that we are all created equal. Now I wonder, will that ever happen?
5 / Let Your Light Shine. Joni Anderson, Grygla, MN
My quote is special to me because it come from a Spiritual Leader I enjoy. She promotes positive thinking.
6 / A Forest Steeped in Diversity. Jill Levene, Angus, MN
The strongest forest is the diversified forestThe strongest farm is the diversified farmThe strongest business is the diversified business The strongest diet is the diversified dietThe strongest education is the diversified education The strongest nation is the diversified nationThe strongest people are a diversified peopleThe strongest life is a diversified lifeA rainbow exists through the interactions of water and light A forest exists through the interactions of water and light But, diversified forests do not appear magicallyAs rainbows do
A diversified forest must be brewed, slowlyFrom the water and the lightJust as a complex tea must be brewed, slowly From the water, and the light, and the forestAnd the rainbowAn explosion of diversified colorsWeaves the individual trees of the brewing forest together EquallyCan you see the forest for the teas?
7 / Untitled Diane Younggren, Hallock, MN
8 / Change the Power Structure. Eryn Killough, Crookston, MN
Only through a change in the structure of power will equality and respect for all begin to take form. America must be honest about its racist history and present in order to move forward.
9 / Use Your Hands to Speak. Beth Vigoren, Fosston, MN
Sometimes we talk about equality, but those words don’t create action. Let us use our hands to create the good deeds that our words fail to produce. Let us embrace everyone with an open comforting hand.
10 / Drowning Together. Trey Everett, Crookston, MN
This piece is about two people with opposing life views, political leanings, religious/spiritual beliefs, etc. etc. who are reaching out to impossibly welcome each other wholly and completely as they drown together rather than saving their own particular ideals.
11 / Join Hands & Heart. Mary Olson Barnes, Red Lake Falls, MN
12 / Untitled Therese Jacobson, Alvarado, MN
As I thought about my piece for Equality and Respect for All, an old song came on the radio with lyrics I hadn’t listened to carefully before. I thought the song, Crystal Blue Persuasion, was about the drug culture of the 1960’s and 70’s, but the lyrics clearly spoke about a new day coming when people would change, and in “every green eld, every town, and all children in every nation would have peace and brotherhood.” This symbolizes equality and respect to me, so my painting collage represents these qualities, showing people of all nationalities, along with the song’s lyrics. (Song by Tommy James & the Shondells)
13 / Wake Up to Humanity. Jodi Peterson, Halstad, MN
The first color I started with was blue, to represent the consciousness of the soul. I then mixed red for a blending of experiences. Drawing on branches for growth with dabs of yellow for enlightenment. At the top is the growing or reaching for balance. The words for how we are connected to each other, but within boundaries. It is when we step outside of ourselves that we can truly embrace each other.
14 / Cosmic Love: One Mother. Alicia Spilde, Karlstad, MN
I created this artwork with the intention of portraying equality for all under one shared mother, one Cosmic Love. I wanted to illustrate the human connection I feel on a universal level. Regardless of background, race, gender, or sexual orientation, we are created equal from this Cosmic Love. I chose a uterus to symbolize the mother - a powerful but loving and nurturing female figure. The painted swirls are the aura or spirit of the mother, spreading throughout the universe. This artwork gives a feeling of inclusiveness and oneness -- a feeling I hope that can be spread throughout humankind.
15 / Happy Together. Andrea Thibert, Red Lake Falls, MN
When you’re at the ocean, standing on the coast, and you see that big body of water, you realize that we as humans are very small. There should not be any problems between people, because it’s a beautiful world. We really are all the same, no matter who or where you are in the world.
16 / Not Just Black and White. Kristina Gray, Crookston, MN
On the left are rigid blocks of black and white, like a chess board having equal squares. One the right the lines begin to curve and swerve in a chaotic way. That makes the black and white shapes more diverse. Layers of color and shapes are on the right side showing how the world is much more playful when not having strict rules of just black and white dimensions. The red “X” on the left means that there are other colors to be enjoyed and respected. If we claim the multiplicity of other cultures and backgrounds besides just our own, it makes our lives richer and more purposeful.
17 / Connected. Bonnie Stewart, Fosston, MN
Core to my belief is that all people are connected and the universe is our connector. The yellow background color represents how a smile, a kind word or a random act of kindness can bring people closer together. The rocks serve as a foundation of our connectedness. The single buttons show we are all unique in our individuality while the cluster of buttons show how we can do more together. Lastly, the trees represent how our roots are all intertwined, the tree trunk our individual strength and the branches of how by reaching out to each other we can learn, share and grow.
18 / Dreaming of Equality. Travis Hanel, Warren, MN
Equality and respect, to me, starts with the Native Americans and women. I tried to capture that with the use of colors of all the races and a dreamcatcher. Dreamcatchers allow all the negative to be caught and the good to pass through.
19 / Let’s Be Kind. Janet Johnson, Malung, MN
Mother Earth doesn’t discriminate. Winds blow, rain falls, mountains shift and streams and rivers ow with no regard for our color, gender, orientation, religion, ethnicity, political views or the size of our bank accounts. I like her attitude!
20 / Nature and Human Nature. Ross H. Hier, Crookston, MN
Although a rather “dark” piece, as a biologist it is hard for me to look at today’s world and not be disheartened by the skew in society’s extreme wealth, greed and non-sustainable human activities. We happily predict human population growth at levels that will put extreme pressures on our most basic necessities... clean water, healthy soils and clean air. There will be civil strife over clean water in the future. The breakdown of community speeds this process as those with monetary and political power, whether on purpose or not, push the “have nots” further into poverty with respect to natural resources and finances.
21 / Faces. Stephanie Olson, Thief River Falls, MN
My thoughts went to painting faces-- are they the same person? Several people? I left the workshop thinking about what separates us and in what ways are we indistinguishable from each other.
22 / The Gap. Connie Nelson, Hallock, MN
My piece is about equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender, race or religion.
23 / It Was Never a Dress. Jennifer Woolcock, Warroad, MN
Superheros come in all forms and live within each of us!
24 / All Life is Precious. Cyd Amiot, Warroad, MN
We may never know what a Life is all about. All Life has a purpose. Jeremiah 1:5 Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. There is a reason for each and every one of us. He created us out of Love. He said himself in Revelation 22:13 “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the First and the Last.” He is the start and finish in this Life and Beyond. With God as Artist, the words resonate with me that all Life is based on water, we can’t live without it and it is truly a Gift from God.
25 / Respect Me. Debbie Aune, Gatzke, MN
Today I learned an artificial womb was created and was successful at growing an animal, and it was said that “Humans are on the horizon”!? I’m screaming with fear inside. God help us.
26 / Break the Chains. Laurel Bergstrom, Roseau, MN
All my adult life I have dealt with addiction and mental health. I have been working to help others with the same issues that I have battled. My piece shows from the darkness to the light, it is possible to not live in that pit of darkness! But we need help to reach the light. Don’t hate the addict, hate the disease. Don’t hate the person, hate the behavior. If it’s hard to watch it, imagine how hard it is to live it! Please help! Reach out! Break the chain!
27 / Faith is Bigger. Alicia Berard, Greenbush, MN
I painted “let your faith be bigger than your fear” because with God we can do anything. God does not discriminate, just like we shouldn’t to each other.
28 / Evolve People, Evolve! Mara Hanel, Warren, MN
The election results happened. What kind of message is this, America? To the world, to my children? From space our world glows, but within most places on earth, the glass ceiling is still very real; and men with power and control issues are elected into leadership. Nevertheless, she persisted.
29 / Labels. Briana Ingraham, Red Lake Falls, MN
We all define ourselves with many labels: sister, brother, mother, father, Christian, Muslim, etc. These labels are a part of each and every person, no matter our background, no matter how “different” we may think we are from the outside. But as unique as each person is, we all share many of these labels. Since it is easier to love and embrace another who we see as similar to us, this piece represents just how much we actually have in common with every person we meet. We need to do better at looking past our differences and for the similarities and commonalities that unite us.
30 / Torn At The Edges. Zoe Everett, Crookston, MN
My piece is about how the more you open yourself up and accept others, the more the lines that society has made start to blur. My piece is made up of torn and ripped magazine cutouts. I did this to show that people come together as they destroy barriers that create separate groups and categories.
31 / Everyone. AJ Killough, Crookston, MN
Everyone can and must live together in harmony to achieve a brighter future.
31 / Untitled Courtney Shaver, Warroad, MN
33 / Love One Another. Jeanie Peterson, Warroad, MN
Loving one another goes a long way!! “Love one another” John 15:12 My faith is important to me.
34 / Unique. Londa Olson, Roseau, MN
Each snow flake is differentand soarewe.This is something one of my uncles liked to say, and it’s important that we accept and respect each other in spite of our differences.
35 / All Blood Runs Red. Ann Piersol, Red Lake Falls, MN
Inside, under the skin, we’re the same. We all have have hearts and livers and blood, etc... We’re all the same underneath.
36 / We Are Better Together. Terri Hams, Red Lake Falls, MN
37 / Love & Light. April Symes, Warroad, MN
Red is a powerful color. Power, passion, hate, love--it represents so many things. The quote used here from Martin Luther King Jr. gives great visualization and direction. It causes me to think twice when responding to hatred, ignorance, ugliness in the world today.
38 / We All Bloom in the Same Garden. Ann Piersol, Red Lake Falls, MN
We are all basically the same, we might look different, but we all grow the same, bloom the same, live the same. We all have the same life. We’re all alive. We’re different in appearance but not in life.
39 / The Elegant Double Helix. Barbara Seeger, Red Lake Falls, MN
Elegant and timeless, the beautiful double helix molecule holds our blueprint. Like a family heirloom, DNA holds the genetic gift of our ancestors and parents. Found in every living cell, all human DNA differs only by 0.1% to 1%. Can equality and respect prevail when we realize all human DNA is 99% to 99.9% identical?
40 / Your Heart, Your Map. Cortney Sather, Warroad, MN
My painting is about trusting your heart, following your dreams, and learning to be who you are. There is so much judgement tossed around. Everyone has expectations for everyone else, including complete strangers. Why should the viewpoints of others define us? We forget who we are and what our dreams are when we live to be what everyone else wants us to be. The point of my painting is that we all have a map drawn in OUR OWN hearts that we should follow. We all have hopes and dreams, go after them. Don’t forget them. Grow within yourself and bloom into the person YOU want to be (symbolized by the flower). Just like real roads, the map in our hearts will have detours. Plans and dreams change, and that is okay! The heart in my painting is sewn on with big gaps because of the detours and change. It won’t always be a set and solid path, but we will make it. SO ALWAYS FOLLOW YOUR HEART!
41 / Awareness. Kat Allen, Grafton, ND
Animals only see the world through their own eyes. A lion does not consider how the tree grows its leaves. A fish does not ask a rock how old it is. But a human child can look to the stars and wonder... As humans, we have the ability to see through our own eyes and the eyes of others. It’s a sort of “magic” called Awareness. If you cannot see the world through another’s eyes, then you are not aware, and you are an animal. It’s that simple. You must try to see –- be it a man, woman, lion, tree, fish, rock, child or star–- to be aware of the environment and understand the capabilities of another. We are all strong in different ways, made of the same particles... to atoms... to molecules...”We are all of dust and to dust we shall return...” My dust will be of magic. Will yours?
42 / Untitled Leslie Brandon-Sondreal, Middle River, MN
43 / All Minnesota. Kim Hruba, Warroad, MN
Celebrating diversity is the theme for my Equality & Respect for All submission. Especially in our more homogeneous communities, it can be difficult to see diversity. But beyond skin tone, it’s in our interests, our ages, our experiences. There is beauty and peace to be found in diversity if we’re willing to see it. Let us see it.
44 / The Root of Grace. Julie Elick, Roseau, MN
John 3:16-17 16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (Equality) 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (Respect)
45 / Genesis 9:13. Susan Windsor, Roseau, MN
My piece is about God’s Covenant between Him and all mankind.
46 / The Earth Sighs. Laurel Montana, Warroad, MN
We need to take care of Mother Nature. The Earth doesn’t belong to us, we belong to it and we are responsible to care for this gift.
47 / Love is Love. Paris Sondreal, Middle River, MN
We need to find the love in everything even if it looks incorrect! Sometimes, it’s hard to find.
48 / Circle of Hope and Love. LaVonne Forsberg, Thief River Falls, MN
I did a stained glass window with 24 children for Redeemer Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls, and I wanted to share a smaller, painted version. I feel like the people of the world have to work together, and that goes for everybody. It’s not just about the givers and the takers. When people need help, we need to help them. People also need to learn to help themselves.
49 / Hope of the Future. Jan Osborn, Thief River Falls, MN
If it wasn’t for our own predjudices, our children wouldn’t have them.
50 / Nevertheless, She Persisted. Danica Robson, Thief River Falls, MN
51 / You Are Valued. Paulette Christianson, Badger, MN
We have a lot of turmoil in our world and country with government, law enforcement, racial issues, along with personal self-esteem. Our Equality and Humanity seems to be upset!Our forefathers came to this country to make new beginnings with the belief in God. It is here there is Freedom of Speech, law and living.The picture is a branch from the tree of Life. It says that we are unique, valued and important. It also says that there is a choice to make plans but to be open to changes that occur.We are One under the sun with peace and Freedom. May we continue in unity and work together to keep it that way.Be Unique - You are Valued - You Are Important - Live It - Love It - One Under the Sun! First, Peace!
Freedom - It’s great to have plans, but it’s more important to be open to the unexpected. That’s the secret to living.
52 / Untitled Bonita Hanson, Hallock, MN
In terms of global equality and respect, it starts at home. From first interactions with each other, our differences are there. Embrace them... Respect them. Orange–Uplifts, Confidence, Socialization Yellow–Positivity, Confidence, EnergyTree of Life–Our Interconnection Buttons & Circle–Imagery of OptimismExpect Respect–You need to know it to achieve itRegional Respect–It starts at homeMaps–Different cities in our areaMaterial–Different body shapes, cut from “different fabrics” Holding Hands–Together we are stronger
53 / Peaceful Path. Karen Mueller, Red Lake Falls, MN
Thinking about equality, so often, change does not come easy. My hope is that the changes occurring between people and in society happen peacefully.
54 / Do Not Harm. Janet Johnson, Malung, MN
Life would be so much simpler if everyone focused less on themselves and more on maintaining a peaceful life and helping others. Instead, we pry and prod, we judge and condemn. Meanwhile, weeds grow in our backyards. Be good to people!
55 / Love is Colorblind. Crystal Kolden, Gatzke, MN
I painted “Love is Colorblind” on a background of many colors to show and emphasize how love reaches across all people and places.
56 / Life is Your Bullseye. Matthew Nord, Halstad, MN
River Walk Gallery Exhibits 2017
Exhibits at our NWMAC Gallery at River Walk Artists in 2017 included Megan Sugden Photography, New Hues (various artists), Equality and Justice for All (various artists), Christine Foster, Janet Johnson pottery and Lucille Nelson, Jeanne O’Neil silk screen prints,