Printmaker and Artist Jill Levene of Tabor spoke about her art and inspiration, how she became an artist, and her exhibit Middle Sister Made: The Inklings of Jill S. Levene at the Historic Fournet Building Downtown Crookston. Jill likes to feature the outdoors and animals in her art. She works a lot in fabric. The exhibit includes 2 fabric pieces, one that is usually at Tettegouche State Park’s lobby. The exhibit is open through August. There will be an Artist Reception at the Fournet on July 31. Listen to the conversation to learn more!

First time NW Art Exhibit Entrant Fred Hartmann of Thief River Falls won a merit award for his intricate folk/ fine craft traditional wood working piece called “Country Church.” Fred has also created a number of bird houses — he also entered one in the exhibit called “Wren House.” Fred talked about how he makes these and what he includes in them. He shared that he’d be happy to offer advice on how to build these if someone really wanted to learn. Vision, patience, and good tools are essential according to Fred. He said that you also have to enjoy doing it and be willing to make mistakes. You’ll appreciate listening to this charming conversation!

Nature Photographer Denise Jenson from Badger won 2nd place in the adult category in the annual NW Art Exhibit. Denise spoke about being a photographer, her arts background, taking art classes from the late Roseau artist Francis Karlsson, taking and then selecting the photo that she submitted to the exhibit, composition, and much more. Listen to hear about Denise and photography.

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!