3.25.26 Jeanne O’Neil

Jeanne O’Neil pictured with one of her original pieces of art.

East Grand Forks Artist Jeanne O’Neil is a printmaker, musician, dance caller, and part of the O’Neil Family Band and Co-Founder of North Country Fiddle and Dance. North Country Fiddle and Dance is featured in the Good Vibrations exhibit currently open at our gallery at NCTC in Thief River Falls.

Jeanne and her husband Tom founded North Country Fiddle and Dance in 1986 and focused on community dances and other performances. Their style is American Folk Dance and the music they play includes Appalachian, Metis, French Canadian, and Scandinavian. Their daughter Erin plays the fiddle and is part of their band. Dances are at Bernie’s Restaurant now from 3-5:30 PM. There is no charge to attend, but they accept donations. Other bands are brought in to join them at the community dances. They also receive funding from the NWMAC. They spoke about dancing, Jeanne’s history, what the community dances involve, Jeanne’s past mural painting, etching and printmaking, teaching art, and much more. Check out one of their community dances (once a month — the next one is April 25) and listen to this interesting conversation!