MontiArts Newsletter October 2025

Creativity In Full Color

It’s that magical time of year again—when pumpkins appear on every doorstep, coffee mysteriously tastes like cinnamon, and MontiArts is buzzing with creativity!

We’ve been busy adding even more color to Monticello. Two brand-new murals are now brightening our town: The Shoe Project by local artist Allison Hunsley, a lively collection of panels celebrating our shared journeys, and the Nordic Mural by nationally recognized artist Shawn McCann, capturing Monticello’s spirit of connection and community. These vibrant additions remind us just how much art can bring people together (and make a gray wall a whole lot happier).

If you’re feeling inspired, come get your hands in the mix! This month’s lineup includes creative classes like Block Printing with Megan Larson (Oct. 14), along with more opportunities to learn, play, and create in good company. Whether you’re a first-time maker or a seasoned creator, we’ve got a space for you at the table.

And as we roll into the holiday season, keep an eye out for some extra sparkle—festive art activities, glowing installations, and community events that’ll keep your creative spirit cozy all winter long.

So grab your favorite sweater, your curiosity, and maybe a pumpkin spice something-or-other… and join us as we fall headfirst into another season of art, laughter, and connection in Monticello!

Erica

Book Release Party with Kelly Foster-Lundquist!

We’re so excited (and proud!) to celebrate one of our own—Kelly Foster-Lundquist—at her Book Release Party here at MontiArts on Friday, November 7th, from 6–8pm! Come join us for an evening of creativity, conversation, and community as we toast Kelly’s newest literary adventure. We can’t wait to get our hands on that book!

Mural!

If you’ve driven by the new Nordic Taphouse, you’ve probably noticed something spectacular — artist Shawn McCann’s newest mural! It was such a joy to watch this piece come to life. Many of you saw it in progress during Let’s Chalk, and Shawn even shared his process in two inspiring public talks. The finished mural is a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and local business.

The Shoe Project: A Walk Through Stories

Completed in 2020, the Shoe Project was temporarily put into storage during the Downtown Revitalization projects — including Block 52 and the Broadway construction. Each shoe tells a story, sharing a powerful message about walking a mile in someone else’s shoes. Head to our website to explore the stories behind the shoes and experience the impact of this meaningful project.

NEW CLASS ALERT!

One Last Writers Open Studio! Oct 22nd

Don’t miss one last Writers Open Studio with the soon-to-be-famous Kelly Foster-Lundquist! Join us on Wednesday, October 22nd, from 3–5pm for an inspiring afternoon of writing and creativity. You won’t want to miss this!