Heritage Through Image Photographer Monika Lawrence spoke about her time in Minnesota, the exhibit, her photography, and more. She explained how this exhibit came to be right before she moved from Bemidji to Germany. Unfortunately, Monika has never seen the exhibit on the wall, even though she created it. The exhibit includes 22 images that depict traditional practices, customs, and folklore that serve a visual representation of regional heritage. Listen to this entertaining conversation and stop by the Carnegie to see the exhibit!

Ada Mosaic Artist Elizabeth Rockstad won 1st place in the Annual NW Art Exhibit in Crookston. She spoke of creating the piece of art that won (it’s part of a series of 3), the materials she used (slate, shale, Ada brick, glass), the background of her process, how the public finds her (Studio413mosaics.com or studio413@ymail.com), taking commissions, workshops she offers, school residencies, and galleries where her work is at. Listen to hear more!

Mike and Janette McColl spoke about the Old School Artist Retreat Center, their art, the retreats and activities at the retreat center, and more! Janette is featured in the Artists of NW Minnesota booklet and the Artist Retreat Center is also in the booklet.

Located in a restored 1906 schoolhouse in the heart of Lengby, MN, the Old School Artist Retreat Center is a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing creativity and building community through immersive, hands-on retreats. It’s a place where artists, makers, and curious souls can gather to learn new skills, connect with others, and find beauty and inspiration in the creative process. See oldschoolarts.org for more info.

• Hosted by artist duo Mike and Janette McColl—local educators and lifelong creatives

• Located one block from Spring Lake, walking trails, and local bars 

• curated gifts and materials are included with every retreat

• beautiful studio environment filled with natural light, history, and the warmth of creative energy

• Delicious meals—some made lakeside or as part of a group cooking event!

Upcoming Creative Retreats at the Old School Artist Retreat Center

à la cARTe (SOLD OUT!)

July 5–8

An art buffet for the creatively curious! Try painting, stained glass, bookbinding, and leatherwork before choosing a medium to dive into. Includes goal-setting, quiet reflection, and a lakeside barbecue.

Art of the Light (Stained Glass Retreat)

July 17–20

Create your own stained glass panel while learning the art of cutting, foiling, and soldering. A sun-drenched, joy-filled experience.

Denim Alchemy (Hand-Stitching & Patchwork Retreat)

August 7–10

Embellish your favorite jean jacket with embroidery, appliqué, and a touch of magic. Storytelling through stitches, and slow fashion at its finest.

Art of the Table (Ceramics + Culinary Retreat)

September 18–21

Inspired by the Mediterranean, this retreat includes plate glazing, indigo napkin dyeing, beeswax candle-pouring, and a group Greek cooking experience. A feast for all the senses.

Fired & Adorned (Fused Glass Jewelry Retreat)

October 10–12

Design and fire 15–20 pieces of stunning kiln-formed jewelry. A perfect creative getaway just in time for holiday gifting.

Looking for a personal artistic escape?  They also have a Airbnb that just opened upstairs at the schoolhouse. Their upstairs apartment, The Wandering Artist Academy, is available on Airbnb. It’s a private, sunlit space with a working art studio, clawfoot tub, and vintage charm—ideal for solo artists or creative couples seeking inspiration in a peaceful, small-town setting.

Jane Anderson, Executive Director of the Thief River Falls Community Theater, spoke about TRFACT’s 30 year anniversary, the organization, the upcoming shows this summer, including Little Shop of Horrors (June 4-6 and 9-11), Seussical Kids (June 24-26), Talking with … by Jane Martin (July 9-10), and The Addams Family (July 29-31). You can buy tickets for these shows online at TRFACT.org. Jane also shared anecdotes about the importance and impact of theater for kids, as well as her work at TRFACT (including grant writing, publicity, and signing contracts, and more. Listen to the conversation to learn more about TRFACT and theater!