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3.26.24 Betsy Saurdiff
Grygla Artist Betsy Saurdiff is receiving the NW Star Award this year. This is a lifetime achievement award. Congrats, Betsy!
She's a retired visual arts (and German) teacher in the Grygla and Goodridge School districts. Betsy taught many art mediums, but preferred pottery.
Betsy is a well-known potter in our region and sells her work out of her studio and at art shows. In 2018 she was the Arts Advocate of the Year.
She's had her own solo show in our gallery and is a regular entrant and award winner in our annual NW Art Exhibit. She's also received grants from the NWMAC for equipment and trainings. Betsy will receive the award on Sunday, April 21 in Lake Bronson. The public is invited to join the celebration.
Listen to hear more, including making pottery, getting grants, and arts council support!
5.9.22 Cathy Erickson
Cathy Erickson of Middle River recently received the Northwest Star Award. The award was presented to Erickson on Sunday, April 30 in Middle River at the Middle River Legacy Center during the NW Art Exhibit Awards Reception and Program. She spoke with Pioneer 90.1’s Ron West about the award, her musical background, and more!
Erickson is a well-known musician and radio show host in the area. She has been entertaining professionally in northwestern Minnesota and beyond, playing music for almost 50 years. Cathy plays the accordion, piano, organ, guitar, and vocals. She also hosts her own radio show Cathy’s Variety Show on Pioneer 90.1 FM. The live variety show consists of polkas, waltzes, classic country, bluegrass, gospel, and local artists. Additionally, she hosts two other live weekly radio shows – Country Church and Live from the Farm.
The NW Star Award comes with $5,000. Artists can only receive our Northwest Star Award once as a lifetime achievement award. Funding for the Northwest Star 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 podcast for an interesting conversation about Cathy!