MontiArts March Newsletter
March At MontiArts
Sprinter?
Is it Spring? Is Winter back? Welcome to the inbetweenest month of the year everyone- March!
We have some really fun creative opportunities for you to enjoy at MontiArts this month. Anyone who is interested in photography will love the event we’re having on Thurs the 7th with guest presenter Chris Lommel. We’re also debuting a brand new class about a technique many of you have seen, but probably never thought you’d be able to learn about in Monticello, and it’ll be a whole experience that will leave you and some broken pottery restored and better than new. We’re also hosting the School District Art Show, launching some new Watercolor Classes, and a Clay Critter $5 Art Social Maker Night. There’s a new Art Show opening next month with residency artist Kara Albrecht too!
Keep scrolling to get all the details. Don’t forget about Open Mic on Sat the 9th!
Stay Curious & Creative. - Sue Seeger
Calling All Photogs:
Chris has been working as a photographer and photojournalist in Monticello for over 40 years. He’s offering to share some of his expertise and experience at no charge at this event to help support other creatives in his home town. Do not miss! Come early to make sure you get a good seat. We’ll have light refreshments and have a Q & A and some time to socialize after the presentation, too.
Repair Pottery With Gold -
Kintsugi Class
If you don’t happen to have any broken pottery, don’t let that stop you from signing up for this brand new class from Erica Witzmann. Here’s how she describes what to expect:
Immerse yourself in a serene experience with artist Erica Witzmann at our enchanting event: Kintsugi Basics. Indulge in the harmonious melodies of soothing music, savor the warmth of tea, and partake in a captivating lesson on the ancient art of Kintsugi. Discover the profound artistry that lies in patiently repairing pottery with purpose and intent, culminating in the creation of a stunning piece that has transcended its past tragedies. Witness the transformative touch of gold as it delicately highlights the scars, revealing the beauty that can emerge from moments of breakage. Join us on this journey of artistic resilience and renewal.
Sign-up today: HERE
Beginning Watercolor Classes! Sign-up Now!
Sign-up up right now. These will fill quickly.
Just starting out with watercolor and want some help finding your way? Curious about the possibilities? Through demonstrations, exercises, and artistic experiments designed by local artist Carol Moore, you will be introduced to this delightful medium and learn fundamental watercolor techniques. Throughout the class, participants will engage in a series of focused activities, starting with smaller lessons that delve into concepts such as water control, color mixing, understanding hard and soft edges, executing a flat wash, experimenting with wet-into-wet washes, tonal value studies and mastering gradient techniques on a smaller scale. Building upon these foundational skills, participants will then apply these learned techniques to create a larger 11"x15" painting, allowing for a seamless transition from theory to practical application. Emphasis will be on making discoveries, learning techniques and developing confidence. Supplies will be provided. Whether you're a budding artist or an experienced painter looking to explore a new medium this is a place for you!
This activity is made possible through a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts Board, thanks to funds provided by the McKnight Foundation.”
Save The Date - The Next $5 Social Will Be Thurs 3/28— Clay Critters!
All are welcome at this fun art making social— fun date night or family night out. The $5 donation will go to the artist this time, to help cover his expenses and compensate him a tiny bit for sharing his time and talents with us. A little extra is appreciated and can help cover others less able to donate.
School Distric Art Show Being Held At MontiArts Again This Year!
We are so thrilled to be hosting this again this year. The talent on display at this show never fails to impress us. Huge thank you to our District Art Teachers for working so hard to put this together. What a great experience for the students and their families to get to come and see their creations displayed in an art space right in their own downtown.
Families of students are being informed by their teachers as to which night they should attend. The public is invited to come take a look on Thurs 3/14 from 4:30 to 6:30. Such a great show of local young talent. Be sure to come out and see this. Bring the kids— get inspired!
Kara Albrecht Art Show Opens Thurs 4/11
Kara’s work can’t easily be classified because she is one of our most prolific and creative artists; always exploring new techniqes, and following new imagery & interests. A graduate of MCAD, Kara is a life-long artist. Kara is very process oriented, loving to lose herself in creating it without too much overthinking to kill the creative process.
She works very freely, seeming to understand for her it’s important to stay open to the flow of new ideas. She has described herself as somewhat of a creative raven, being attracted by whatever bits and bobs catch her interest, and catch her artist’s eye. Her work is beautiful, sometimes haunting, and always interesting and inspiring.
Remember We Have Open Studio Sessions Every Week!
Every Tues. from 9:00 to 11:00, and Wed. from 6:00 to 9:00 you’re invited to join other area creatives as we gather to work on our own projects. (No open studios on 3/12 and 3/13 due to District Art Show) Come make some art and visit with new friends at MontiArts!
Open Mic This Saturday 3/9
Our open mic has become the most welcoming listening and collaborating space in the area. Join us to perform or listen at 7pm in our MA Studios building (213 W Broadway). Contact Ben Lundquist at ben.montiarts@gmail.com with questions.
