MontiArts February 2025 Newsletter

It’s GLOW time!

Let’s GOOO!

The MontiArts GLOW Fest is just around the corner on Feb. 22 from 6–9 PM, and we can’t wait to see everyone lighting up the night with glowing outfits, wild get-ups, handmade lanterns, and creative glowing hats! While we’re busy putting the finishing touches on this magical event, there’s even more happening at MontiArts in February and beyond. From exciting workshops to community gatherings, art classes and more, we have plenty to share—so stay tuned and get ready for a vibrant month ahead!

Let’s make Monticello shine—see you in the GLOW! ✨

Erica

GLOW FEST

After the parade, join us at West Bridge Park for an unforgettable night of fun and festivities! We have an incredible lineup this year, including some exciting new acts—we don’t want to give too much away, but let’s just say it involves FIRE and LIGHTS!

New this year, JJ the DJ will be our official GLOW DJ, spinning tunes from the lit-up gazebo. Get ready to boogie, play kid-friendly music games, and stay warm while enjoying the entertainment.

Festival favorites are back, too! Mac’s Minis returns for their third year with delicious mini donuts, and you can cozy up with s’mores and hot cocoa by the bonfires throughout the park.

It’s going to be a night to remember—see you there!

Glow Balloon Workshop

Last Chance to Create Before GLOW!

Don’t miss our final workshop before GLOW FEST—our popular Balloon Lantern Workshop! We’ll provide a blank canvas balloon lantern for you to decorate and make your own glowing masterpiece. All ages are welcome, and teams can work together on a single lantern.

One registration = one balloon. If you’re assisting a child or working as a team, just register once. If you each want your own lantern, be sure to register separately.

We can’t wait to see your creations light up the night at GLOW FEST—see you there!

**You must register your address, even if you live outside Monticello, and complete email validation to confirm your registration. For help with registration email: arts@monticellomn.gov

A Music Workshop?!

Our very own Open Mic house drummer, Ketan Kulkarni, will conduct an 8 week 'How to be in a Band' workshop.

This workshop will be for up and coming artists and musicians (ages 15-18) who know how to play their instruments (voices are instruments, too), but have not yet played much with other musicians. This workshop will teach the participants how to listen to others, react to what others are playing and create something greater. The band will learn how to play together ending with a performance in front of live audience in May of 2025

This workshop is not an audition for a band or for seasoned musicians to jam with others. This workshop is also not meant to teach you your instrument.

Who should apply?

Students ages 15-18 years old who can either play drums, guitars, keyboards, bass or can sing… or all of the above. The ideal group would be somewhere between 5-7 participants.

More Info and Sign Up? Click HERE

Drumming Circle- Indoor Winter Fun and Exercise

Drumming Circle – Every Third Sunday

What a great way to warm up this winter! Join us for an all-ages drumming circle, held every third Sunday of the month. Led by local musician Shawn Gellert, this energetic and uplifting experience combines rhythm, movement, and mindfulness. Whether you’re drumming for fun, exercise, or relaxation, this is a great way to connect with others and let the beats move you!

Bring your own drum or email Shawn Gellert at shawngellert@yahoo.com to reserve one in advance.

New Classes Alert!

Kintsugi: The Beauty of Imperfection

Join us for another round of Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold. More than just a repair technique, Kintsugi is a thoughtful and reflective practice that embraces imperfections and highlights resilience. In this class, you’ll not only learn the basics of pottery repair but also explore the philosophy behind Wabi-Sabi—finding beauty in flaws and impermanence.

Whether you’re mending a cherished piece or creating something new from broken fragments, this class offers a meaningful and meditative experience. Sign up and discover the art of transformation!

Link to sign up for the class: https://secure.rec1.com/MN/monticello-mn/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM1MzU5OTA=

**You must register your address, even if you live outside Monticello, and complete email validation to confirm your registration. For help with registration email: arts@monticellomn.gov

Artists Way is back!

Back by Popular Demand: The Artist’s Way!

Unlock your creativity with The Artist’s Way, the beloved multi-week course based on Julia Cameron’s groundbreaking book. This inspiring class helps you break through creative blocks, discover new artistic possibilities, and reconnect with your creative self.

We’re excited to partner with Enzo’s Wonderland, Monticello’s local, woman-owned bookstore, where you can purchase or pre-order your copy of The Artist’s Way. Be sure to visit them at 141 Broadway St E, Suite 5, Monticello, MN 55362 to support a great local business while preparing for class.

Don’t miss this opportunity to spark your creativity—sign up today!

Link to sign up: https://secure.rec1.com/MN/monticello-mn/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTM1MzYwMzc=

**You must register your address, even if you live outside Monticello, and complete email validation to confirm your registration. For help with registration email: arts@monticellomn.gov