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9.3.25 Jerry Amiot
Jerry Amiot spoke with Phil McKenzie about the upcoming Pioneer Day (September 7 from 11 AM to 5 PM) in Crookston at 719 E Robert Street that the Polk County Historical Society holds. The NWMAC provides a grant for arts activities during the event, including live music, arts demonstrations, and more. The event is free to attend. The Polk County Historical Society Board volunteers much time and effort for this fun event. Listen for details!
8.27.25 Lee Ann Hall
Lee Ann Hall of the Ada Chamber of Commerce spoke about the upcoming Fun in the Flatlands September 4-6 at the Norman County Fairgrounds. The NWMAC provided funding for live music, theatrical face painting, and art workshops. Listen to hear the details.
8.20.25 Virgil Benoit
Virgil Benoit of AFRAN (the Association of the French of the North) spoke about the upcoming Chautauqua and Arts Festival at Old Crossing Treaty Park taking place on August 23 and 24 this year in Huot, Minnesota. A long list of musicians and dancers will be performing, as well as exhibits and general demonstrations during the 2 day event. A Polish American supper will be served on Saturday evening. This event combines history with art. While this is the largest, the organization sponsors other events during the year. Find out more at OldCrossing.org. Listen to this entertaining and informative discussion that includes a history of the trading period and much more!
8.13.25 Christine Sibilleau and Tami Borgen
The Roseau Gazebo Night Series is a summer-long series of musical concerts and performances for audiences of all ages in Roseau at the gazebo. Christine Sibilleau and Tami Borgen spoke about this weekly evening of free outdoor entertainment that the NWMAC provides funding for. The series was started in 2021 by the Women of Today and other volunteers. In addition to speaking of the history of the series, they gave a recap of the line up this year. Upcoming is a local talent night that they host each year. You can learn more on their FB page @RoseauGazeboNight. Listen for details!
8.6.25 Dale Price
Stephen Arts Community Arts Center Board Member Dale Price spoke with Phil McKenzie about arts events in Stephen, including the upcoming Downtown Horns show on Thursday, August 7. The Downtown Horns includes a full array of instruments including guitar, trombone, saxophone, keyboards, vocals, and drums. The band plays in Stephen each summer. The Stephen Arts Council receives a grant from the NWMAC for their arts events that usually include theater, in addition to live music during the summer. On his own time, Dale performs throughout the region these days, including an upcoming show in Hallock. Listen to hear the conversation.
7.30.25 Abby Pearson
Executive Director of the Aurora Center for the Arts Abby Pearson spoke about her first year as the Executive Director of the organization in Fosston. The organization is celebrating its 45th year. She filled Phil in about recent and upcoming activities, including a summer porch concert series, an Alice in Wonderland play, a youth art exhibit in the gallery, art classes (embroidery with Stephenie Anderson and acrylic portraits with Pamela Edevold), an annual art auction, a lit fest in September, and more! Visit their website at aurorcenterforthearts.org and follow them on Facebook.
7.23.25 Jason Rominski
Jason Rominski gave an overview of the arts activities at the Marshall County Fair taking place July 23-27 in Warren. Here's a link to the website that provides a schedule and more info. http://www.marshallcountyfair.org/vonasek-free-stage.html Listen to hear all about it!
7.16.25 Cindy Adams
Director of the Kittson County Historical Society Cindy Adams spoke of the line up of events at the museum this summer. Lots has already happened but there are a number of upcoming arts events as well. The museum received a grant from the NWMAC for many of these events — live music, arts classes, presentations, cultural events, and an art exhibit (Rock and Beau Bakken). Cindy also spoke about the hours at the museum (plus free admission), what the museum includes (a lot!), the history of the area, the draining of Lake Bronson, and more. Email Cindy at history@wiktel.com. Listen to the conversation for details.
7.9.25 Carol Ihle and Polly Gustafson
Zehlians Members Carol Ihle and Polly Gustafson spoke about the Zehlians Art & Wine Walk in Thief River Falls on Thursday, July 10 from 4 to 8 PM. The theme this year is Flower Power. Carol and Polly spoke about the Zehlians and the activities of the organization, including the Art & Wine Walk, arts events, murals, and artists in residence. This event involves many volunteers and showcases businesses and artists in the region. You can purchase tickets at the Carnegie that day or beforehand (with a discount) at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trf-zehlians-art-wine-walk-2025-tickets-1259732075549?aff=ebdssbdestsearch. Listen to learn more!
7.2.25 Jill Levene
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!
6.25.25 Fred Hartmann
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!
6.18.25 Denise Jenson
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.
6.11.25 Monika Lawrence
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!
6.4.25 Elizabeth Kitchell-Rockstad
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!
5.28.25 Mike and Janette McColl
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.
5.21.25 Jane Anderson
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!
5.14.25 Darcy Reese Part 2
Darcy and Phil continued their conversation about Darcy’s creative approach to choir directing and receiving the NW Star Award. This is part 2 of the conversation.
They spoke about the trips that Darcy and the choir took to Minneapolis and NYC and what they experienced and learned about life, history, and humanity through music. They also spoke about racism, injustices, and how the students felt safe to express themselves in the classroom. Listen to hear the details.
5.7.25 Darcy Reese Part 1
Phil spoke with Darcy Reese of Thief River Falls. She’s a retired music educator and recently received the prestigious NW Star Award for creative choir directing from the NWMAC. She shared how she came to take an innovative approach to choir directing. Darcy and her students learned about and incorporated diverse experiences into the choir room and performances, including poems about the Holocaust, spending time with Holocaust survivors, Black Gospel music, and American Indian music and jingle dancing into performances. These experiences were eye opening for her and her students. This is part one of their conversation.
4.30.25 Loreen Hanson
Artist of the Year Loreen Hanson is featured on this week’s podcast. Loreen received the award from the Northwest Minnesota Arts Council for Visual Arts. This award was presented on Sunday, April 27 at the University of Minnesota in Crookston. She spoke with Phil about her art and more.
With over 76 years of experience, Loreen has worked in numerous mediums, but she prefers to paint with watercolors. She likes the softness of watercolor. Her artwork ranges from images of wildlife, flora, and fauna, still life arrangements, portraits, and paintings of people doing everyday activities -- all of which celebrate life. She has skillfully captured the beauty of the world around her and has demonstrated her exceptional talent and dedication to the arts through her contributions to the art community.
Throughout the years, Hanson has participated in more than 30 art exhibits. She has been an active member of Artists Unlimited for over 40 years. She spoke about the trips they took together and the painting they did on the trips. Although she has not had any formal training, she has always been eager to learn and has sought to improve her work by attending several workshops, skill exchanges with other painters, and pored over books by professional artists. Her dedication to learning and honing her craft has shown through her works of art. Last fall Loreen had an impressive one-woman art show featuring 186 watercolor paintings in Thief River Falls!
Along with her artistic talents, Loreen also remains passionate about promoting the arts and has encouraged young and old alike to participate in it. Hanson gave this advice for aspiring artists, “If you can draw, you can paint. Choose your favorite medium and go for it.”
On the impact of the arts on society, Hanson shared “Art enriches our lives. Not just the artist’s life, but everyone’s. People appreciate art.”
Our 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. Funding for the Northwest Artist of the Year comes from The McKnight Foundation. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents.
Listen to the conversation to learn more!
4.23.25 Rena Zapata Bouchard
This week Rena Zapata Bouchard spoke with Phil. Rena will be receiving the Arts Advocate of the Year Award on Sunday, April 27 in Crookston at our Awards Reception and Program.
Rena spoke about how she got involved in Studio 110, what they offer, and being a make-up artist and a photographer. She coordinates all the activities there now.
A certified freelance makeup artist and portrait photographer, Rena is passionate about empowering others and using the arts as a tool for social change. In 2019, she spearheaded the creation of Studio 110, a permanent space dedicated to digital storytelling for youth and adults in Crookston and the surrounding area and has continued in an active leadership role with the organization.
A satellite site since 1996 for Minneapolis organization In Progress, Studio 110 first offered summer programs called Fresh Voices in Crookston. In high school, Rena participated in one of their sessions. Later in 2018, she enrolled her kids, and she joined them to chaperone and never left. There she learned portraiture and has continued to hone her craft.
Studio 110 has become a space for media arts creativity with themes related to breaking stereotypes and acceptance. It is open to everyone. Media arts is art made looking through a lens like photography and video. Rena helps students who identify as persons of color find a welcoming home base at Studio 110. She coordinates media arts workshops, bringing in talented professional artists from across the nation to teach and empower those who come to the downtown Crookston location. She also podcasts and utilizes her makeup artistry in creative projects with the students and offers free family portraits during themed holiday events at Studio 110.
This award will be presented on Sunday, April 27 in Crookston at the University of Minnesota. Everyone is welcome to attend. Three awards are given each year to recognize artists and arts advocates within our seven-county region who stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in the arts. Of the Year Award winners were nominated by area residents. Our Arts Advocate of the Year award is $500 and includes arts from all disciplines. Funding for this award comes from the Minnesota State Legislature.