What’s New in the Arts
See below for information about resources, exhibits, grants, events, workshops and much more!
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
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.
The Northwest Minnesota Annual Art Exhibit is
Open Until April 27
University of Minnesota in Crookston
Reception and Program on April 27 to
Honor Exhibit & Of the Year Award Winners
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council is pleased to announce the NW Annual Art Exhibit is at the University of Minnesota in Crookston until April 27.
Adult artists from our 7 county- service region (Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau, and Red Lake Falls) and students from 9 schools have entered 128 pieces of art, including oil, acrylic, watercolor painting, photography, pencil drawings, pen and ink, pottery, sculpture, fiber art, glass mosaic, and mixed media. and are competing for $2,300.00 in cash awards. Attendees at the exhibit can vote for People’s Choice. Exhibit cash award winners will be chosen while the exhibit is on display by Glen Henry, a qualified juror from Grand Forks. They will be recognized and receive their check at the Artist Reception.
The exhibit is at the University of Minnesota in Crookston at 2900 University Avenue in the International Room of the Sargeant Student Center and will be open for the public to view art and vote for People’s Choice Mondays through Fridays from 9 AM to 8 PM, Saturday from noon to 3 PM, and Sunday from 4 to 7 PM.
Take a virtual walk through the exhibit at https://youtu.be/QJeYb-pkZ-A?si=uAr8Rz1hzoX4PtJY
Parking during the exhibit will be free in Lot A.
On Sunday, April 27 the exhibit will open at noon. Mingling, light refreshments, and live music will start at 2:00 PM. The awards program will start at 3 PM in Bede Ballroom. Of the Year Awards will be presented to Choir Director Darcy Reese for the NW Star Award -- Lifetime Achievement, Visual Artist Loreen Hanson for Artist of the Year, and Make-up Artist and Photographer Rena Zapata Bouchard for Arts Advocate of the Year, in addition to exhibit awards. The Exhibit and Reception are open to the public and free to attend. Many pieces of art are for sale and the public is encouraged to shop. Purchases can be marked as sold and picked up on April 27 after the reception. The exhibit provides an opportunity to see what our regional adult and student artists are creating in their studio spaces and in the classroom. The reception is a wonderful day of celebrating the arts in our region.
Funding for these awards is provided by the McKnight Foundation and the Minnesota State Legislature.
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 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
NWMAC Traveling Art Exhibit Visits Ada for the Final Stop
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 Ada Public Library until April 24. This is the final 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:
Beau Bakken, Hallock, “Sunday Evening Classy Entertainment” (Acrylic Painting)
Kelly Chisholm, Gary "John Lennon” (Drawing)
Tammy Hansen, Newfolden, “Flower and Feather” (Acrylic Painting)
Denise R. Jenson, Badger, “Found Lying Together” (Photography)
Steve Bernard, Erskine, “Candlelight Dinner” (Oil Painting)
Sarah Solberg, Plummer, “Canyon X” (Photography)
Jessica Lundeen, Thief River Falls “Sunny” (Drawing)
Izzy Swensen, Lancaster, “Purple Iris” (Watercolor Painting) Lancaster School Student Merit
Kerstyn Lindsey, Borup, “Sprinkles” (Ceramic Sculpture) Ada-Borup-West School
Brigitta Novacek, Roseau, “The Pink Cloud Replica” (Acrylic Painting) Roseau High School
Geneva Gartner, Fertile, “Flying Around” (Mosaic) Fertile-Beltrami School
Mary Jane Crane, Red Lake Falls, “Beauty in Self Image” (Drawing) Red Lk Falls School 3rd place
Ava Halvorson, Goodridge, “Sundown in Star Township” (Acrylic Painting) Goodridge School
Kinsley Oslund, Grygla, “Perfect and Deep Love” (Watercolor Painting) Grygla School
The 2024-2025 Traveling Exhibit Schedule*:
May to June 11 Crookston Public Library, Crookston
June 11 to August 6 Warroad Public Library, Warroad
August 6 to September 24 Hallock Public Library, Hallock
September 24 to November 19 Godel Public Library, Warren
November 19 to January 21 Thief River Falls Public Library, Thief River Falls
January 21 to March 4, 2025 Red Lake Falls Public Library, Red Lake Falls
March 4, 2025 to Annual Exhibit TBD Ada Public Library, Ada
*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 look to our website at www.NWArtsCouncil.org, call our office at (218)-745-8886 or contact Trey at treyeverettcreates@gmail.com or NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com.
North Country Fiddle and Dance
Community Dance
Saturday, April 5
3 to 5:30 PM
Bernie's Restaurant
121 DeMers Ave, East Grand Forks
with
Sugar on the Roof, (of Hibbing and Duluth)
Live Music! All Join Hands! All ages; families, couples, singles
North American Folk Dances: Reels, squares, circle mixers and more...
All dances are taught and easy to learn!
Donations at the door
Find them at northcountrydance.org
(This is an after hours event, if you would like to eat, come by 2:30 PM)
Sugar on the Roof is Megan Orwig Reynolds on guitar and vocals, Jefferson Reynolds on banjo and trombone, and Clancy Ward on fiddle and vocals. They craft an evening of early Americana music from the 1920s, 30s and 40s. They met on the dance floor, so dancing is their thing.
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.
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.
Please join us on Tuesday, March 18 for an Artist Reception for our Around the Farm Art Exhibit at our NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. Refreshments will be served. This event is free and open to all.
The reception is from 5 to 8 PM. At 6 PM the Northern Jazz Band will play.
Around the Farm
Featuring the Artwork of Beau Bakken
With Rock Bakken, Aimee Ross, Betsy Saurdiff, Stephanie Olson, Jessica Lundeen, Cindy Kolling, Debbie Aune, Janet Knutson, Therese Masters Jacobson, Ross Hier, Annethea Novacek, Loreen Hanson, Alice Hamness, and Kate Hammer
Open Through April 25
This exhibit includes 27 pieces of art created by 15 artists in acrylic, watercolor, pen and ink, photography, ceramic, and mixed media. Beau Bakken, the featured artist, has twelve 2' X 3' acrylic on canvas paintings of tractors, elevators, trucks and farmers from NW Minnesota. Many of the pieces are for sale.
In addition to the pieces by Beau Bakken, artists from throughout the region contributed to this showcase, including Rock Bakken of Hallock, Aimee Ross of Fisher, Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla , Stephanie Olson of rural Thief River Falls, Jessica Lundeen of Thief River Falls, Cindy Kolling of Gully, Debbie Aune of Gatzke, Janet Knutson of Gully, Therese Masters Jacobson of Alvarado, Ross Hier of Crookston, Annethea Novacek of Greenbush, Loreen Hanson of Thief River Falls, Alice Hamness (deceased), and Kate Hammer of Roseau.
Farming is more than a job or a career. It is fundamental to our community's way of life, part of our region's cultural identity and history, and deeply rooted in where and how we live, work, and play. This art exhibit celebrates farm life and farming and will highlight the importance of agriculture in the lives of residents of our northwest Minnesota region through art. Art is around the theme of farms, farming, farm machinery, harvest, farmland, agricultural heritage, farm animals, and farm life.
Featured Artist Beau Bakken of Hallock explained, “Ten years ago or so I was working on a farm and found visual inspiration from my boss’s farm trucks. They were decades old, rusty, and full of battle scars. But at the turn of a key, their engines fired and were ready for the day’s work. I filed away in the back of my brain to paint a picture of at least one of these modern workhorses. I’m good for packing away more ideas than I ever have time to put into reality, so this inspiration sat dormant for almost a decade. But over the last year or two, I’ve finally leaned into painting pictures of trucks, tractors, and machinery and quite enjoyed it. Most have been painted from personal photos but also from generous photograph lenders. I never took a photo of the 1960-something green Ford truck that first inspired me, but a photo recently was given to me of my former boss pouring grain out of the old Ford’s back gate. The painting titled, “Ron and the Ford” was a meaningful capstone for me and this farm art project in many ways. Ron Petersen, now with Jesus, was a great boss, farmer, and man of God. If I continue painting farm related pictures, I hope to find more ways to depict farmers along with their machinery.”
Of her two pieces in the exhibit, Artist Stephanie Olson said, “Both pieces incorporate traditional quilt square patterns, combined with personal feelings and witness to current times."
Aliza Novacek-Olson shared: "I love paintings of red barns, so I was excited when I heard about the topic of the upcoming exhibit. I own a painting done by my grandmother, Alice Hamness (deceased) about 60 years ago. Alice is the mother of my mom Annethea Novacek and my aunt Loreen. I thought it was special to see paintings of the same subject matter from three different women in the same family, so I convinced my Mom and Loreen Hanson to submit their paintings, too."
You won't want to miss this interesting exhibit open through April 25 at the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls.
Watch this video for a virtual tour of the exhibit at https://youtu.be/NoQwejK5jmI
The NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls is at 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls 56701. The gallery is open during Monday-Friday from 8 - 5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Please call to make sure the college is open before making a special trip. Hours can change. Enter through Door B, which is right next to the gallery. Visitor parking is free.
For more information about this exhibit, visit our website at NWArtsCouncil.org, or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at (218) 280-4917 or email NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com. Please sign up for our e-newsletter on our website home page to see the latest news and grant announcements. Email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886 to reach our office during regular business hours.
NW Art Exhibit is April 7-27 in Crookston
Make plans to see our annual NW Art Exhibit. This year the exhibit will be in Crookston at the University of Minnesota Crookston in the International Room in the Sergeant Student Center. The exhibit will open on April 7 and run until April 27. Hours are Monday-Friday from 9 AM to 8 PM, Saturday from noon to 3 PM, and Sunday from 4 to 7 PM.
The exhibit will feature original art by regional adult and high school student artists. They will be competing for $2,300 in cash prizes. Visitors will be able to vote for People’s Choice. Some pieces of art will be for sale.
Parking during the exhibit will be free in Lot A.
On Sunday, April 27 the exhibit will open at noon. There will be a reception with free refreshments at 2 PM. The awards program will start at 3 PM in Bede Ballroom. The public is encouraged to attend this free event.
Please reach out to our office with any questions at director@nwartscouncil.org.
NWMAC Staff Kristin Eggerling and Trey Everett spoke with Hallock Artist Beau Bakken on Friday, March 8 at 1 PM. The conversation took place live on our Facebook and YouTube channels. The recording is available here or https://streamyard.com/amvj6cujmaay.
Bakken is the featured artist in the current NWMAC Gallery Exhibit at NCTC in Thief River Falls — Around the Farm. The conversation included the exhibit, Beau’s inspiration, body of work, commissions, his murals, and much more!
The exhibit Around the Farm is open until April 25 at the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls. This exhibit includes 27 pieces of art created by 15 artists in acrylic, watercolor, pen and ink, photography, ceramic, and mixed media. Beau Bakken, the featured artist, has twelve 2' X 3' acrylic on canvas paintings of tractors, elevators, trucks and farmers from NW Minnesota. Many of the pieces are for sale.
Beau Bakken of Hallock explained, “Ten years ago or so I was working on a farm and found visual inspiration from my boss’s farm trucks. They were decades old, rusty, and full of battle scars. But at the turn of a key, their engines fired and were ready for the day’s work. I filed away in the back of my brain to paint a picture of at least one of these modern workhorses. I’m good for packing away more ideas than I ever have time to put into reality, so this inspiration sat dormant for almost a decade. But over the last year or two, I’ve finally leaned into painting pictures of trucks, tractors, and machinery and quite enjoyed it. Most have been painted from personal photos but also from generous photograph lenders. I never took a photo of the 1960-something green Ford truck that first inspired me, but a photo recently was given to me of my former boss pouring grain out of the old Ford’s back gate. The painting titled, “Ron and the Ford” was a meaningful capstone for me and this farm art project in many ways. Ron Petersen, now with Jesus, was a great boss, farmer, and man of God. If I continue painting farm related pictures, I hope to find more ways to depict farmers along with their machinery.”
Watch this video for a virtual tour of the exhibit at https://youtu.be/NoQwejK5jmI
The NWMAC Gallery is located at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls. The gallery hours are Monday-Friday from 8 -5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Please check to make sure the college is open before making a special trip to see the exhibit. Summer hours can change. Enter through Door B, which is right next to the gallery.
Please let us know if you have questions about the Artist Spotlight.
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!
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
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.
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Announces
Around the Farm
Featuring the Artwork of Beau Bakken
With Rock Bakken, Aimee Ross, Betsy Saurdiff, Stephanie Olson, Jessica Lundeen, Cindy Kolling, Debbie Aune, Janet Knutson, Therese Masters Jacobson, Ross Hier, Annethea Novacek, Loreen Hanson, Alice Hamness, and Kate Hammer
Open Through April 25 at the
NWMAC Gallery
Northland Community and Technical College
1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls
We are pleased to announce the opening of Around the Farm, an exhibit open through April 25. This exhibit includes 27 pieces of art created by 15 artists in acrylic, watercolor, pen and ink, photography, ceramic, and mixed media. Beau Bakken, the featured artist, has twelve 2' X 3' acrylic on canvas paintings of tractors, elevators, trucks and farmers from NW Minnesota. Many of the pieces are for sale.
In addition to the pieces by Beau Bakken, artists from throughout the region contributed to this showcase, including Rock Bakken of Hallock, Aimee Ross of Fisher, Betsy Saurdiff of Grygla , Stephanie Olson of rural Thief River Falls, Jessica Lundeen of Thief River Falls, Cindy Kolling of Gully, Debbie Aune of Gatzke, Janet Knutson of Gully, Therese Masters Jacobson of Alvarado, Ross Hier of Crookston, Annethea Novacek of Greenbush, Loreen Hanson of Thief River Falls, Alice Hamness (deceased), and Kate Hammer of Roseau.
Farming is more than a job or a career. It is fundamental to our community's way of life, part of our region's cultural identity and history, and deeply rooted in where and how we live, work, and play. This art exhibit celebrates farm life and farming and will highlight the importance of agriculture in the lives of residents of our northwest Minnesota region through art. Art is around the theme of farms, farming, farm machinery, harvest, farmland, agricultural heritage, farm animals, and farm life.
Featured Artist Beau Bakken of Hallock explained, “Ten years ago or so I was working on a farm and found visual inspiration from my boss’s farm trucks. They were decades old, rusty, and full of battle scars. But at the turn of a key, their engines fired and were ready for the day’s work. I filed away in the back of my brain to paint a picture of at least one of these modern workhorses. I’m good for packing away more ideas than I ever have time to put into reality, so this inspiration sat dormant for almost a decade. But over the last year or two, I’ve finally leaned into painting pictures of trucks, tractors, and machinery and quite enjoyed it. Most have been painted from personal photos but also from generous photograph lenders. I never took a photo of the 1960-something green Ford truck that first inspired me, but a photo recently was given to me of my former boss pouring grain out of the old Ford’s back gate. The painting titled, “Ron and the Ford” was a meaningful capstone for me and this farm art project in many ways. Ron Petersen, now with Jesus, was a great boss, farmer, and man of God. If I continue painting farm related pictures, I hope to find more ways to depict farmers along with their machinery.”
Of her two pieces in the exhibit, Artist Stephanie Olson said, “Both pieces incorporate traditional quilt square patterns, combined with personal feelings and witness to current times."
Aliza Novacek-Olson shared: "I love paintings of red barns, so I was excited when I heard about the topic of the upcoming exhibit. I own a painting done by my grandmother, Alice Hamness (deceased) about 60 years ago. Alice is the mother of my mom Annethea Novacek and my aunt Loreen. I thought it was special to see paintings of the same subject matter from three different women in the same family, so I convinced my Mom and Loreen Hanson to submit their paintings, too."
Cindy Kolling has notecards available at https://kollingcards.com/shop/ols/categories/agriculture?page=2
You won't want to miss this interesting exhibit open through April 25 at the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls. Details about an artist reception will be announced soon. Watch our website and social media pages for details about the time and date.
Watch this video for a virtual tour of the exhibit at https://youtu.be/NoQwejK5jmI
The NWMAC Gallery at Northland Community and Technical College in Thief River Falls is at 1101 State Highway 1, Thief River Falls 56701. The gallery is open during Monday-Friday from 8 - 5 PM and at other times when events are held at the college. Please call to make sure the college is open before making a special trip. Hours can change. Enter through Door B, which is right next to the gallery. Visitor parking is free.
For more information about this exhibit, visit our website at NWArtsCouncil.org, or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at (218) 280-4917 or email NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com. Please sign up for our e-newsletter on our website home page to see the latest news and grant announcements. Email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886 to reach our office during regular business hours.
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council Announces
Heritage Through Image
a photography exhibit
Open Through June at the
Carnegie Library, 102 Main Ave N, Thief River Falls
Reception TBA
The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council (NWMAC) is pleased to announce Heritage Through Image, a photography exhibit open through June. This exhibit includes 22 images that depict traditional practices, customs, and folklore that serves a visual representation of regional heritage.
This exhibit was first shown at the Sorenson Gallery in Fosston last year and was sponsored by the East Polk Heritage Center. The show features individuals that depict the heritage, art, culture, and talents of our region. Photographer Monika Lawrence, formerly of Bemidji now living in Germany, was commissioned to capture the images that reflect traditional practices, customs, and folklore to serve as a visual representation of the heritage of East Polk County.
Come and see images and information featuring folk arts such as Hardanger embroidery, Scandinavian desserts and pastries, rosemaling, historical storytelling including stories from Indigenous communities, woodworking, experimental archaeology and textiles, blacksmithing, tractor and vintage car restorations, and more. There’s something for everyone!
Lawrence moved to the United States in 2007 and lived in Bemidji until 2023 where she taught photography and photojournalism at Bemidji State University. She was also a freelance photographer for Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) News. She and her husband have now returned to Germany after their retirement. She explained, “In my photography, I focus on people in their environment as well as people’s impact on the environment. I want to tell stories that indicate our bonds to the past but that may also let us reflect about today and the time beyond tomorrow. I am also passionate about dance, which is about other, creatively imagined environments. Capturing briefly appearing moments before they are gone is what I am seeking.”
She interviewed and photographed the subjects who are featured in this exhibit. They include Stephenie Anderson, John Balstad, Dustin Carlson, Caleb Curfman, Amy Mulry, Al and Vicky Olson, Jeffrey Olson, Earl Steinbrenner, Lynn Sundrud, Rosalyn (Roz) Watnemo, and Carol Wold.
You won't want to miss this interesting exhibit open through June at the Carnegie Library in Thief River Falls. Details about a reception will be announced soon. Watch our website and social media pages for details about the time and date.
The Carnegie Library in Thief River Falls is at 102 Main Ave N. The exhibit is located on the second floor. Parking is available in the back of the building. It is open Mondays & Fridays from 10 AM - 2 PM and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 8-11 AM. It will also be open at other times when the Chamber of Commerce office is open. Contact the Chamber of Commerce to see about other possible open hours at trfchamber.com, 218-681-3720, or info@trfchamber.com.
For more information about this exhibit, visit our website at NWArtsCouncil.org, or if you are an artist interested in exhibiting a body of work with NWMAC, please contact Trey Everett at (218) 280-4917 or email NWArtsCouncil@gmail.com. Please sign up for our e-newsletter on our website home page to see the latest news and grant announcements. Email director@NWArtsCouncil.org or call 218-745-8886 to reach our office during regular business hours.
North Country Fiddle and Dance Community Dance
Saturday, February 22, 2025
3:00 to 5:30
Bernie's Restaurant, The Farmhouse Room
121 DeMers Ave. East Grand Forks, MN
Music by Four Mile Portage
Callers: Jeanne O'Neil, Tom Maloney
All ages – singles, couples, families
Traditional American folk dances : Reels, squares, circle mixers and more... all dances are taught, fun, and easy to learn!
Donations at the door
This event sponsored in part by a grant from the Minnesota Northwest Arts Council
Note: This is an after hours event, Bernie's closes at 3:00. If you would like to order from the menu, come early !
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.
Just outside the NWMAC Gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls are display cases that feature work by area artists.. Check out the display case with work by visual artist Jessica Lundeen. Pieces in the display case are colored pencil drawings of cats, dogs, a chicken, and a horse. Jessica creates pet portraits on commission.
The 2025 legislative session is underway, and now is the time to take action for the arts. Arts Advocacy Day, on March 4th, is your opportunity to show just how many people care about the arts, and the more voices we have, the stronger our impact.
It’s crucial we demonstrate to legislators how many communities rely on arts funding to thrive. Every community, from urban centers to rural towns, benefits from the arts, and it’s important that legislators hear directly from you how vital this funding is to your area. The number of people who show up matters - it sends a clear message that the arts are a priority.
We’ve made it easy for you to take part and make a huge impact. By joining us on Advocacy Day, you’ll be helping secure funding to keep the arts strong in your community and across the state.
Your participation can make all the difference.
Join Us for Arts Advocacy Day!
Date: TUESDAY, MARCH 4th, 2025
Rally in the Capitol Rotunda: 10:00 AM
Legislative Meetings: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
This is your chance to make a real impact! Rally with us in the heart of the Capitol and then meet directly with legislators to advocate for vital arts funding in our communities.
Thief River Falls Concert Association Winter/Spring 2025 Shows Feb 8, March 28, and April 22
For info and tickets visit their website trfconcerts.com and order online. Or stop by Kezar Music, The Times, or Hugos. All shows at 7 PM at the Lincoln High School Auditorium.
Concert Venue
Lincoln High School Auditorium
101 Knight Ave. So.
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
Map this Location
Parking is available in the east parking lot, across Knight Ave.
from the school. Door 6 (the northeast entrance at the corner
of First St. and Knight Ave.) is the entrance for all concerts.
The University of Minnesota is holding an upcoming Women’s History event March 3 - 14, 2025. Women’s History Month is a celebration of women’s contributions to history, culture and society, and through a fiber art event they would like to further educate and generate engagement focusing on fiber art in the Red Lake River area community. This Women’s History Month event is intended to bring awareness of the strong tradition and knowledge of women and the fiber arts.
Consider displaying your work as well as sharing your presence during a social on Monday, March 3 from 5-6:30 PM. They are preparing a welcoming space for individuals, like you, with unique skills and various skill levels to come together and display your fiber arts and informally share about your art. While knitting, crocheting, quilting, spinning, weaving, dyeing, embroidery, and stitching come to mind, they hope to include any other textile crafts that support fiber art. They would like this collaborative event to encourage individuals to learn, explore and participate in future textile arts culture in rural Minnesota.
Monday, March 3, 2025
Sargeant Student Center, first floor
Northern Lights Lounge and the International Lounge
Women’s History Month Fiber Art Reception with modest hors d'oeuvres, 5 PM - 6:30 PM
Registration is free, you may sign up at: z.umn.edu/fiberart25.
Minnesota State Arts Board Offers Creative Individuals Grant Program
Grant Opportunity for Individuals:
FY 2026 Creative Individuals
Application materials are now available for the Creative Individuals grant program. This program is open to individual artists and culture bearers.
Creative Individuals provides support to help individual artists and culture bearers develop or sustain their creative practices and meaningfully engage with Minnesotans.
In this program, funds may be used to support an individual's creative practice and meaningfully connect to and engage with audiences, participants, students, and/or communities during the grant period.
Applicants may request between $2,000 - $10,000.
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 Creative Individuals program page.
Creative Individuals Program Page
Important Dates
January 29, 2025: Virtual Information Session and Q & A. This will be a real-time virtual session. It will be recorded and available for later viewing.
March 7, 2025: Application deadline; all application materials must be submitted before 4:30 p.m.
November 2025: Arts Board approves grant awards.
January - December 2026: All funded activities must take place within these dates.
See the full FY 2026 grant program calendar on the Arts Board website.
You are Invited to Apply for the
Northwest Minnesota Annual Art Exhibit
Submissions Accepted Now Through February 28
We are pleased to announce our latest “Call for Entries” for the 2025 Annual Art Exhibit.
The deadline to submit your artwork is February 28, 2025.
This year, the annual Art Exhibit will be at the University of Minnesota Crookston from Monday, April 7 until Sunday, April 27. Artwork will be dropped off on Monday, March 31 from 10 AM - 7 PM at UMC.
Artists and creatives from our 7 county- service region are invited to enter this art exhibit and will be competing for $2,300 in cash awards. The first place prize for adults is $500! Artists must reside in Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Pennington, Roseau, or Red Lake counties to be eligible. Both adults and high school students are encouraged to enter up to two pieces. 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 at UMC on Sunday, April 27. Artists are welcome to have their work in the exhibit available for sale.
See https://northwestminnesotaartscouncil.org/nwmnartsexhibit-apply for more information, including the exhibit entry rules and directions. If you would like the entry form mailed to you, please contact our office 218-745-8886 ext 1 or director@nwartscouncil.org. The entry form must be submitted no later than February 28, 2025.
Need help completing the application form? Follow this step by step guide here.
Our latest newsletter is out! Read the January 2025 newsletter to find out about upcoming deadlines, events, exhibits, calls for art, opportunities, and more at
https://conta.cc/404iiEn
Make sure you sign up to get the e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.
Nominations for Of the Year Awards Due January 31 — Deadline Extended
Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Often people serve in both roles. Nominations are due on Friday, January 31.
Northwest Star Award
The Northwest Star Award is a lifetime achievement award. This award is for $5,000 and can be a wonderful gift to those who have chosen a hard career path related to artistic expression. Artists can only receive this award once.
Artist of the Year
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 to use however they see fit.
Arts Advocate of the Year
Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and honors someone who keeps being a voice and advocate for arts within the community or local school or the region. Arts includes all disciplines.
An ELIGIBLE NOMINATION must include one completed nomination form, narrative on merit, letters supporting the nomination, a copy of the nominee’s resume or detailed qualifications, five work samples if artist, and be received by January 31. Only residents of the Minnesota counties Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau are eligible for these $500 awards. We also give a large Northwest Star Artist award. The first step is to nominate the person for Northwest Artist. One person will be selected to receive a $5,000 cash award from the pool of candidates and receive our Northwest Star recognition. This person must be beyond an emerging or student status to be considered. This truly is a once in a lifetime award. Additional criteria apply so please contact our office for more information if you feel your nominee will be considered 218-745-8886.
RESTRICTIONS: Each award can be received only once in a lifetime. Nominations will not be carried over from year to year. Previous nominees must be re-nominated each year. It is the policy of NWMAC that nominees will not be notified of their nomination unless they are chosen to receive an Award.
* *
Please consider nominating someone who you view as a deserving candidate from our seven-county service area in northwestern Minnesota. Questions? Contact our office at (218) 745-8886 or email director@NWArtsCouncil.org for more information. The nomination form is here. You can download a training module here that will walk you through the nomination form. Curious who has received these awards in the past? Find out here.
Awards are presented at the Northwest Minnesota Arts Exhibit reception in Crookston on April 27. Funding for Northwest Star and Northwest Artist of the Year comes from The McKnight Foundation. Funding for Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year comes from the Minnesota State Legislature.
We offer grant writing training sessions two weeks before each grant deadline. This training is Tuesday, February 11 at 4 PM. This can be virtual or in person. You must RSVP to attend. Please let us know if you are interested by calling 218-745-8886 or email director@nwartscouncil.org. You can take advantage of the opportunity to come into our office and work on your grant in our grant writing space!
Everyone is welcome to celebrate and experience Warroad RiverPlace’s first-ever solo art exhibit, “Repurpose, Preserve, Rejuvenate,” at a gallery open house and artist reception for northwest Minnesota mosaic creator Sherri Kruger-Kukowski on Saturday, January 18, from 4:30 to 6:30 PM.
The public is invited to view the art, meet the artist, and socialize over light refreshments at this free event.
For the past 30 years, Kruger-Kukowski, a retired Badger educator and founder of Winding River Mosaics, has refined the art of multimedia mosaics, creatively incorporating various elements from antlers to snowshoes to rocks, even giving new life to second-hand materials like tables and chairs. Her work and arts advocacy have earned her numerous awards, grants, and media features. (Full biography at: warroadriverplace.org/events)
“Repurpose, Preserve, Rejuvenate” consists of a diverse array of the artist’s collection, featuring pieces that reflect the beauty of nature — like local flora and fauna — and others that express a sense of community and shared identity.
“I hope this exhibit, which blends the old world art of mosaic with my personal twist, will leave you inspired and rejuvenated,” said Kruger-Kukowski.
“Sherri is not only a talented artist, she is also a great ambassador for the arts in northern Minnesota — one who educates and enthusiastically invites all into a shared space for creation and ideation, cultivating creative expression for our local communities. We invite you to explore her exhibit and take the opportunity to visit with her at this event,” said John Davis, executive director of Warroad RiverPlace.
The exhibit is open at the Warroad RiverPlace art gallery from January 10 to March 8, 2025. It is free to visit Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM.
MACALESTER AFRICAN MUSIC ENSEMBLE
The artist reception will be followed by a free concert at 7:00 PM. with the Macalester College African Drum Ensemble, hosted by the Warroad Elementary School Music Department. Learn more at warroadriverplace.org.
For more information about Warroad RiverPlace and upcoming events, visit the new arts, culture, and events center Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 AM. to 5:00 PM. The art gallery and tours of the space are free and open to the public. Contact the center at arts@warroadriverplace.org or (218) 986-0001. Learn more at warroadriverplace.org.
North Country Fiddle and Dance Community Dance
Saturday, January 25, 2025
3:00 to 5:30 PM
Bernie's Restaurant, 121 DeMers Ave. East Grand Forks, MN
Music by O'Neil Family Band
Caller: Jeanne O'Neil
All ages – singles, couples, families
Traditional American folk dances : Reels, squares, circle mixers and more... all dances are taught, fun, and easy to learn!
Donations at the door
Note: This is an after hours event. Bernie's closes at 3 PM, so if you would like to eat, come early!