Twin Ports Arts Happenings, December--Weekend 2--and a Call for Art in Cloquet

A Christmas Chair by Kris Nelson

There's a lot happening this time of year. Seems like everyone is making things and there is plenty of opportunity to Buy Local. Links for more information on some events are bold and in Blue. I'd switch them to Green for the holidays, except some people would think I was just decorating the page and might not click on the links.

TODAY
The Joseph Nease Gallery is having a Holiday Pop-Up Super Shop through December. To see what this means, and for further details, see the JNG Facebook Page.

Thursday, December 6, 1-4 p.m.
First Thursdays Open Studio, Duluth Art Institute Lincoln Park Building, 2229 W. 2nd Street
"Bring your supplies and artistic spirit to the beautiful and inspiring historic Lincoln Building. Connect with other creative people, spending time experimenting with your medium of choice. Each session will include time to create and optional end-of-session group critiques." $5/session + DAI Membership, no registration required, just drop in.

Thursday, December 6, 4-9 p.m.
ART on Tap Holiday Show Pop Up, Fitger's Barrel Room, 600 E. Superior Street
Art vendors from ART on Tap will be at Fitger's!

Thursday, December 6, 7-9 p.m.
CHOICE Unlimited's 8th Annual Evening of the Arts, Lincoln Park Middle School, 3215 W. Third Street "The event features over 70 artists performing and presenting original music, poetry, art, dance and film. Tickets: $5 at the door."

TOMORROW

These are crayons, not Legos.

Friday, December 7, 12-8 p.m.
Holiday Market, Oldenburg House, 604 Chestnut Avenue, Carlton
"Oldenburg House hosts its second annual holiday market, featuring unique holiday gifts made by local artisans, music and Magnolia Cafe holiday goodies." -->You can see/purchase Susie's Lego® Crayons for a Cause at this sale Tomorrow.

More Info on the Oldenburg House Event:
"Items for purchase include handmade skin products, paintings, cards, edibles, wood products, baskets, ornaments, candles, jewelry, accessories and more. Attendees are asked to bring a new pair of warm socks or mittens to hang on the gift tree. All donated socks and mittens will be given to Window Victim Services and Visitation Center in Hinckley."

SATURDAY
Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nice Girls of the North 2nd Saturday Marketplace, Lakeside Lester Park Community Center (the former Lakeside Library), 106 N. 54th Ave. East
"Free coffee, cookies, and a friendly atmosphere await while you browse a collection of handcrafted clothing and bags, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, photography, personal care products, baby items and much more. One central checkout, most major credit cards accepted."

Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Get to the Point Local Art & Gift Fair, Lafayette Community Center, 3026 Minnesota Avenue, Park Point. (I love the name of this sale. Don't beat around the bush, just get to the point.)
"This is a small local artisan fair in a delightful building. It's Bentleyville lights time at night and craft/art fair shopping by day. Buy local. This fair will surely have great gifts you won't be able to resist."

Susie's Goosefeather Pens ar very cool.
A nice gift for artist friends who draw.

Saturday, December 8, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Many Rivers Montessori Craft Fair at the Many Rivers Montessori Middle School, 110 W. Redwing Street
"This third annual fair includes student and community craft booths, games, chili, s’mores by the fire, and music. Proceeds go toward a pottery kiln and pottery wheels for the Middle School micro-economy business and to support the middle school spring trip."

Saturday, December 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Free Family Art Day, Duluth Art Institute at Lincoln Park, 2229 W. 2nd Street "People of all ages and artistic abilities can create make-and-take art projects. This session will have fall-themed activities."

Saturday, December 8, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Handmade Holiday Market, Lincoln Park Craft District, 1900-2000 Block W. Superior Street "Over 50 artists and vendors, including: pottery, art, letterpress, sculpture, jewelry, apparel, skincare, furniture, wood, stationery, and more." Lincoln Park has come alive.

Saturday, December 8, 2-6 p.m.
Clare Cooley's Open Studio at the Emerald Lady, 2219 E. Superior Street
Clare Cooley is having an Open Studio this Saturday 2-6pm in her historic home "The Emerald Lady" with art is displayed all the way up to the 3rd floor.
See her Event Page on Facebook.

Saturday, December 8
The Annual Christmas Market in Superior, kitty corner from the Red Mug. 10 a.m. till 7 pm. Saturday and Noon till 5 Sunday. This is always a fun stop. Go straight across the High Bridge and you can't miss it, a block past the tracks. It's outdoors with a bonfire and hot cocoa, among other things. A bunch of outdoor booths with friendly people. They wind shut them down last weekend but the weather should be good this weekend. Sunny blue skies on Saturday, if you can make it.

SUNDAY

Sunday, December 9, 1-3 p.m.
Pick Up Gingerbread House Creations Made at Home, Nordic Center, 1st Floor, 23 N. Lake Ave.

Sunday, December 9, 7-9 p.m.
Gag Me With A Spoon - A Community Storyshare, Teatro Zuccone, 222 East Superior Street Adeline Wright hosts this evening of storytelling and open mic journal sharing in the style of the Moth and Mortified podcasts. There will be featured storytellers and a musical guest. Members of the audience are also welcome to sign-up on the night for open mic journal-sharing segment. Suggested Donation: $5 at the door. Of Note: I am slated to be a featured storyteller in this event. I will be sharing a story that I've never shared before publicly (for better or worse.)

ATTN: ARTISTS

A Call for Art has gone out for the 2019 Season

of the County Seat Theater in Cloquet for their

Annual Poster Contest.

Deadline: December 30

IF INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING

and you need more details, 

contact Kris Nelson
chairsbykris AT gmail Dot com

Winner receives 2 free tickets to a show.
All original art will be returned, but if selected you are giving the theater the right to use it. You are creating the artwork, not the signs or posters, so no lettering on the piece. 

Submit work for consideration by either email (countyseatgm@aol.com) or by  dropping it off at the Encore. (Make arrangements with Joel, the GM, by email or phone. Visit www.countyseattheater.com

* * * * 
and finally... 
JOIN US SATURDAY DECEMBER 15
at our Down Home Creators Holiday Sale.
Details HERE.

* * * *

STAY UP TO DATE ON 
YOUR ACTIVITIES SLATE

at the Twin Ports Art Blog 

https://twinportsart.blogspot.com/2018/11/art-in-december.html

Meantime, art goes on all around you. Get into it.

Twin Ports Art Scene--December Happenings

Painting by Shawna Gilmore who, like Esther P. and I,
has work at Art on the Planet.

I woke thinking about how the days will continue to get shorter for three more weeks, and then the axis of the earth will reach its peak to begin moving back the other direction. Isn't it amazing how the universe is designed, with all these subtle transitions? What it the earth didn't turn and only one side faced the sun at all times? What if there were not moon and thus no tides generated by the gravitational pull of our nearest celestial body?

One reason many of us live in the Twin Ports is because of the proximity to nature here. No matter where you live you are walking distance to a park. Isn't that amazing? When we look up we can see the stars and the sky, unlike many people in larger cities.

* * * *
It's holiday arts and crafts season here. Here's a partial list of things that are happening tonight and through December.

Tonight, November 30, 2-9 p.m.
Saturday, December 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lake Superior College Throw-a-thon, Lake Superior College Fine Arts Building, Ceramics Studio, 2101 Trinity Road, Clay is fun! Throw bowls for a good cause.

Tonight, November 30, 5-8 p.m.
Jazz @ Duluth Fine Pianos with Ryan Frane & Friends, Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street (next to Starbucks!)
Saturday afternoon Jazz @ the Toga may be finished after a 30 year run, but jazz is not leaving the Northland. Duluth Fine Pianos is one plaze to get your jazz fix, and Oldenburg House in Carlton is another.
Stop by and say hi! Light refreshments will be offered.

Tonight, Nov 30 is the Downtown Duluth Art Walk. Between 20 and 30 gallery spaces and venues will be open to welcome you, including...

Tonight, November 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Through Our Eyes: Youth Photo Exhibition at the Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center, AICHO, 202 W. 2nd Street
"The 2019 AICHO calendar is released alongside an exhibit honoring the Gimaajii youth whose photography is featured in it. Calendars will be available to purchase. $10 suggested donation. For more information, contact Moira Villiard at moira.aicho@gmail.com."

Yes, they are crayons.

Saturday, December 1st there will be numerous arts & crafts fairs in various places. At the Peace Church sale at 1111 11th Aenue East. Susie will have her Lego Crayons for sale with 100% of proceeds going to Damiano Center Kids Kitchen.

Tomorrow there will also be the Christkindlmarket 2018 in the Broadway Community Gardens kitty-korner from Red Mug in Superior, WI
and the Nice Girls of the North Holiday Marketplace in Lakeside.

ALSO on Saturday, Washington Galleries will have an O P E N  S T U D I O from 11 a.m. till 5: p.m.
Located on Lake Avenue between 3rd and 4th Street. C U there?

Monday, December 3, 5-7 p.m. will be the Opening Celebration for Matt Kania's DOing a Labor of Love, Paintings of artists and artisans doing what they love, Zeitgeist Arts Atrium, 222 E. Superior Street
This solo exhibition of paintings by artist Matt Kania will be on view from Dec. 3-Jan. 11.

December 5-January 2, Art on View
Esther Piszczek: Patterns, Superior Public Library, 1530 Tower Avenue
Esther will be drawing on the display window there where I first showed some of my Dylan paintings about ten years ago.

All this is just the beginning of the month!

To see a full schedule of activities for December, 
visit the Twin Ports Arts Blog 
twinportsart.blogspot.com/2018/11/art-in-december.html

Big Shout Out to Esther Piszczek 

for putting all this info together.

"May you live knowing all things are possible!" -- Esther Piszczek

FWIW Esther will be one of four artists at the

Down Home Creators Holiday Sale 

at my place on December 15.

More Information Here

Meantime art goes on all around you. Get into it.

We Almost Lost Two Twin Ports Artists This Past Year

Despite efforts to be good defensive drivers, sometimes there's almost nothing one can do because it's so out of the blue and there is so little time to react. Here are brief accounts of two local artists who became victims this past year, plus information about a fund raiser for the latter.

Scott Murphy

Broken Threads...

Last summer, I had scheduled a visit to popular painter and muralist Scott Murphy's studio to do a story in anticipation of his upcoming fall show at Lizzard's here in Duluth. We had spoken the day before and all was arranged, but when I arrived there were no cars in the driveway. No one was home. I did not immediately assume the worst, but after visiting two more times that week with the same reception I began to wonder what had happened. Perhaps he'd been called out of town on an emergency?

After three weeks of periodically stopping or driving by his home, I saw a car in the driveway. I stopped, knocked and was invited in... by his daughter, Claire, whereupon I learned that on that very day when Scott and his wife Colleen were heading home for our meeting, a reckless driver had careened into the Murphy's lane on Highway 2. All the bones in Scott's legs were broken and his wife had serious but less life threatening injuries. It was a crazy thing to happen, but Scott has been a battler and a survivor. His show with UMD Professor Robin Murphy (no relation) was postponed.

Trissa Wilson  (a.k.a. Eris Vafias)

Last spring a car going 60 mph ran a red light and slammed into Trissa's car. In the accident she experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that resulted in short-term memory loss, sensitivity to light, visual impairment, as well as cognitive deficits in the areas of processing speed, memory retrieval, attention and concentration. Like many with these kinds of accidents she has PTSD with heightened anxiety and depression. Trissa has gone through speech therapy and occupational therapy. She continues to be in physical therapy and to see other assorted medical providers. It has been 9 months since the incident and she's still waiting for the okay from doctors so she can to go back to work.

A single mother of two growing daughters, she is best known for the Artist Kamikaze events that she has produced over the years as well as other arts related events including the Limbo Gallery that she curates and directs.

Fund Raiser for Trissa / Eris

According to Lydia Walker, whom I was partnered with in my first Artist Kamikaze event, Trissa’s medical bills are piling up and so are the bills for her to just meet the basic needs of her and her girls. She is fighting to not lose their home and despite everything, she has increased her volunteer work in our community, while asking for little from others. She has continued to host free events for local artists to share their work with the community through events like the Artist Kamikaze. The proceeds from these events go all back into the artists’ community and future free events. Trissa sees no profit and she doesn’t care. Trissa just wants to give back to her community and promote the growth of the local arts.

Saturday January 20th 5pm-10pm at the Elks Lodge
1503 Belknap St, Superior, WI 54880
Tickets: $10 each available at the door

Interested in donating:
cash - https://www.gofundme.com/trissas-fund
food/beverage, Musical talent, items for auction - contact fundraisertrissa@gmail.com
For more information follow the event page on Facebook

Update on Scott Murphy

Yesterday I reached out to Scott and gained a new appreciation for the meaning of the word resilience. If I'd not known all he'd been through I'd never have believed, based on his cheerfulness, that he'd been through anything serious at all. As he shared the details, however, we're fortunate he is with us at all.

"It's amazing how much energy it takes to paint," Scott said, lamenting because of how much energy is expended by rehab.

Then we talked about the accident.

"The guy was going between 72 and 90 when he hit us," he said. It happened so fast, and had Scott not veered both he and Colleen would undoubtedly have been killed. The speeding car hit the corner of the Murphy's car  and spun it. Scott was trapped in the car, but Colleen despite a cracked sternum, broken wrist and other injuries, climbed over the seat and managed to escape through the back door. She went out, picked up Scott's glasses off the highway and began directing traffic.

An Emergency Medical Technician just happened to be near and immediately attended to Scott, keeping him conscious and hopeful while waiting for the "jaws of death" to extract the car from around his broken body.  "I was lucky my back wasn't broken or my head damaged, lucky not to have had permanent paralysis," he said. While trapped in the car he had no idea, though, how smashed up he was. He's had four surgeries and a lot of rehab since the accident last summer.

On the positive side of the ledger,  "I had some great hallucinations," Scott said. "I went to Russia, went to the mountains. When you can fly you can go anywhere you want. The hallucinations were a gift."

He also shared how special it was for his daughter to be able to return home and be there for he and his wife. "Claire was such a big help. Colleen and I couldn't do basic functions, like mowing etc. The fact that she took three months off her life to help was wonderful. By her nature she's a healing influence."

For now, the Murphy and Murphy show at Lizzard's is slated for this coming fall. 

Local Art Seen: We've Got Murals! Plus, Two Events To Check Out

Two weeks ago the Zenith Bookstore opened here in the Twin Ports, next door (or across the parking lot) from Beaners Central in the old Wild West building in Spirit Valley. The opening was fun, but as with any bookstore, the heroes are the books themselves, as well as the people who create the character of the store. You might call it Bob and Angel Dobrow's Big Adventure.

Last month when I was at the State Fairgrounds for the annual Back to the Fifties Car Show, I noticed that my two favorite bookstores that I used to visit when we lived in the Midway 35 years ago were still there in the Midway and in Dinkytown, though if you go the Dinkytown store has moved out of the basement to an upstairs location around the corner.

The Dobrows moved here from Northfield, where Bob taught math and statistics for two decades at Carleton College. A story at Perfect Duluth Day has photos inside the store and offers some backstory about the Dobrow's quest to find a building here and more. Be sure to follow the links at the end of the story for other related items of interested.

The aim of this post is to draw attention to the decorative entryway to Zenith's storefront, a mural of books by Proctor muralist Tom Napoli. Napoli's books are a great addition to the aesthetic lift he provided Ganucci's Italian Restaurant across the street and down the block. If you have never eaten there, you must go for lunch or dinner sometime and take in the interior design as well. The food is fab, pure Italy, and may be one of Duluth's best kept secrets that ought to be shouted to the world.

For what it's worth this is not the only book mural in town, though. Scott Murphy's mural of books graces the library downtown, and curiously he, too, hails from Proctor. It's great to see these exteriors getting dressed.

Stay current on upcoming events. Bookmark the ZenithBookstore.com.

GOING COASTAL BOOK LOVERS EVENT

Which bring me to the two events. First, on Tuesday evening Zenith Bookstore is Going Coastal. That is, there will be a book signing and reception for a new book of short stories by area writers titled Going Coastal. At least three of the nine authors will be part of a panel discussion, reading from the short stories they produced for this Lake Superior Writers anthology published by North Star Press. Phil Fitzpatrick, Judy Budreau and Max Reagan will each be reading and sharing. Beaners will be providing free cupcakes, though I suspect we'll all be there for other reasons.

If you have not yet checked out our newest bookstore in Duluth, then you can use this event as a prod to get you over here.

MURAL UNVEILING IN THE CRAFT DISTRICT

"Yes, we're going to a party, party." --Lennon/McCartney

From 3:00-4:00 this afternoon there will be a ribbon cutting and block party to celebrate the new Paul LaJeunesse mural on the Frost River building in the Craft District. LaJeunesse was the Duluth Art Institute's first Artist-In-Residence. The ceremony will be part of a celebration that includes music by Teague Alexy and an ice cream stand by Love Creamery (yummm) in the Pocket Park. More details here on their Facebook event page.

Sponsored by Bent Paddle Brewing Co. & Duluth LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation.)

* * * *
In case you haven't noticed, the Twin Ports arts scene is bursting with life. Get into it!

Important Twin Ports Arts Events and Reminders

Louis Guillaume by Paul Cezanne, Natl Gallery

"Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August."
— Jenny Han, The Summer I Turned Pretty

Summer Solstice is June 21, the longest day of the year. Woo hoo. Or is it June 20? Hmmm. Depends on which Oracle you ask, perhaps.

I am guessing that Grandma's is intentional in selecting for its marathon the nearest weekend to this period when the earth's rotational tilt is most slanted toward the sun. Perhaps, too the Park Point Art Fair has the same criteria in mind for holding its annual ritual the following weekend. A big welcome to artists and art lovers! Next weekend is only days away now.

In between we have a few events to draw attention to.

Tonight from 5-7 p.m. is the Stephanie Wilcox Art Show and Reception at the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Community Room, 425 W. Superior St., Suite 1060.  "Join Stephanie for an artist reception featuring a one night pop-up of her handmade jewelry and other small works in addition to the show." This is a venue I've not yet seen. Refreshments provided and everyone is welcome. Show runs through July 17.

On Wednesday, June 21, 6:30-9:00 p.m., Zentangle (R) & Wine with Esther Piszczek, CZT, at the Master Framing Gallery, 1431 London Road. Come experience the fun and relaxation of drawing simple, repetitive line patterns with pen and ink and pencil shading. No previous drawing experience necessary. Class Cost: $35; Supplies: $10 (or use supplies provided without additional cost). RSVP to episzczek@gmail.com. Seats are limited.

Thursday there will be a celebration of the life and art of recently departed painter Russell V. Gran through an art exhibition at Washington Studios Artist Co-op, a.k.a. 315 Gallery here in Duluth. Russell V. Gran: A Life's Retrospective will run three hours on the evening of June 22nd, 2017, 5-8, with remarks at 6:00 p.m. The following is from Eric Dubnicka's invitation:

Only your presence in good-humored remembrance is required. In heroic fashion Russell overcame many near life-ending experiences, yet it's with a heavy heart we share that Russell has moved on to his next great adventure. After a life lived full in Boston, MA, West Duluth native Russell Gran returned home in 1992 to follow his true passion in life, his art making, and to be near his beloved mother Mary (d.2006). After successfully completing the studio art program at UMD he was a charter member of Washington Studios Artist Cooperative where he was an ardent advocate of common sense cooperative living. It was there he became an influential force and mentor to a generation of Duluth artists of all genres. He went on to create and exhibit an expansive array of energetically charged, intensely colorful paintings which are collected throughout the Twin Ports region and beyond. He longed for his artwork to be front and center and this final solo exhibition of mostly unseen artworks from the last 25 years will be the capstone to his long and illustrious career.

Saturday & Sunday, June 24 & 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Park Point Art Fair 2017, Park Point Public Beach House, 5000 Minnesota Ave. "The 47th annual Park Point Art Fair will feature the juried fine art and crafts of over 120 artists from the upper Midwest and beyond. In addition to the outdoor gallery, there will be a food court, demonstration areas, a stage with live music and more — all at the Park Point Recreation Area.

"Each year, an estimated 10,000+ visitors attend the weekend festival as artists display and sell work in media such as ceramics, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, woodwork and sculpture. With artist tents lining a paved path that extends through the park, the show allows people with physical disabilities the chance to fully experience the event."

Our family has been going to the Park Point Art Fair since the kids were little. It's been a great tradition and we own a number of things in our home that were acquired there.

Also on Saturday is the Chum Rhubarb Festival 2017 out on London Road circa 11th Avenue East, from 9 a.m. till 4 p.m. The Chum’s 13th annual Rhubarb Festival promises plenty of rhubarb, "including hundreds of pies, muffins and crisps, as well as rhubarb brats and burritos. There will also be live music, games, crafts, auctions and stage shows." Duluth has it all!

* * * *

ON THE DYLAN FRONT

Unplugged, 1994*

The big story this past week was that a concept and location for a Dylan monument in Hibbing has been approved. This is a pretty big deal as many ideas have been swirling about nothing really taking shape. This article from yesterday's Star Tribune provides details. Big Shout Out to Craig Hattam and the Hibbing Dylan Project for making this happen.

Finally, Saturday night Cowboy Angel Blue will be back in the Twin Ports at  Vintage Italian Pizza, V.I.P. in Superior. Here are the details.

Oh, and one more thing. Check out this Jimmy Fallon clip where he talks about the recent Dylan show he went to at Port Chester, New York. It's fun. Makes me want to see another Dylan concert.

* * * *

"Green was the silence, wet was the light, the month of June trembled like a butterfly."
--Pablo Neruda

*Photo, MTV Studio, Frank Micelotta; courtesy William Pagel

Local Art Scene: This Friday It's the 2017 Goin' Postal Spring Art Show

"To see we must forget the name of the thing we are looking at." --Claude Monet

The Japanese Footbridge, by Claude Monet

For the record, here is a painting you will not see at the show because it is currently in the Impressionists gallery of the National Museum: Monet's Japanese Footbridge. What you will see at Friday's Goin' Postal Spring Art Show are a wide variety of artists who work in a range of mediums, including painters, photographers, sculptors, scribblers and craftspersons. The weather should be nice, and the afterparty is slated to be great, featuring Israel Malachi, Woodblind, Revolution Jones and a special performance by Laura Velvet and the Bookhouse Boys.

If you're a follower of the local arts scene, Friday will be a perfect appetizer for Saturday's Art for Earth Day Gallery Hop. You'll likely want to put this weekend on your calendars.

Here's another Monet quote, which probably applies to more than art: "It's on the strength of observation and reflection that one finds a way. So we must dig and delve unceasingly."

My original Dogs of War is slated to be on display Friday.

There's plenty more happening this week in the Twin Ports. Be sure to check your local listings. ;-)

Altering the Nashville Skyline and Several Local Twin Ports Events of Note

When I interviewed San Francisco artist Sherry Karver last fall, I began by saying, "Add Sherry Karver to your list of artists to watch." Plunging into spring I've been notified that she's acquired a solo exhibition at the Cumberland Gallery in Nashville. The exhibition, which will be on display through April 22,  received generous attention in Nashville Arts magazine in a story by Karen Parr-Moody.

In addition to having her work featured in a gallery, First Bank of Nashville honored her with a billboard as "Artist of the Week." Now that's pretty cool. Maybe one of our billboard's leading into Duluth can find a sponsor who will give shout outs each month to some of our many talented local artists.

* * * *
TWIN PORTS ARTS NOTES

There are a number of art-related happenings these next several days. Here are some quick reminders.

Tonight in the Morrison Gallery at the Duluth Art Institute, 4th Floor of the Depot on Michigan Street, Elizabeth Kuth will be giving an artist talk about her current exhibit titled Rooted Expression.

Tomorrow evening the American Indian Community Housing Organization is celebrating its fifth anniversary. There have been so many fabulous events there and I've me so many talented an amazing artists there over this period of time. There will be a feast and there will be friends and a ceremony to rename Trepanier Hall and honor Robert Powless. 5:30 p.m. to 7:30.

Saturday afternoon Studio 3 West is hosting a closing celebration of WTF!, a powerful and thought-provoking show featuring local women artists advocating for social justice, community action, and civic engagement centered on Women’s Rights and related concerns. 2:00-4:00 p.m. Details here.

FWIW the SCFTA is working on an arts calendar so that artists can all tune in to one place and get the arts news they need to plan their outings. It's a major challenge with so much happening.

Meantime, art goes on all around us. Let's celebrate it.

* * * *
P.S. That Idea of having a billboard giving shout outs to local artists seems like a seriously good idea. Is this something to take up with the Duluth Public Arts Commission? Or Visit Duluth? We have more than enough artists to feature for the next ten years. If I won the lottery I would sponsor it myself.  

Twin Ports Arts Scene: Happenings and Upcoming Events

Trepanier Hall

This afternoon at 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. there will be an Artist Discussion about Making Art Today at Studio 3 West. The WTF! show created quite a buzz when it opened earlier this month at the PROVE and Studio 3 West. This afternoon you can hop downtown and see what the buzz was all about.

Monday, March 20
As many of you know Esther Piszczek has been on a Sabbatical. Which is to say that if you've been dependent on her eNews to stay current with what happening in the local arts scene, then it been a rough three months.

On Monday she will be making a public appearance at Barnes & Noble from 4-6 p.m. She will be doing a book signing of her coloring book of Zentangle-inspired artwork, Patterned Peace. At the same time she'll also be doing some interactive demonstrations.

Thursday evening there was a Painting Event with Leah Yellowbird

Some of her work is currently on display in the AICHO Gallery along with pieces by Jonathn Thunder and others. The detail in Leah Yellowbird's work continues to impress and amaze. I've been captured by her magic. Her technique is evolving and her fan base is growing. Here (right) is one of her pieces with a pair of detail close-ups at the end of this post.

More AICHO Events

* * * *

More Leah Yellowbird

Detail from above.

Another part of the same design.

* * * * 

To see more, check out Anishinaabe Kwe at the Kruk Gallery, Holden Hall at UWS featuring works by Native artists Leah Yellowbird, Ivy Vainio and Satah Agaton Howes.

Meantime, art goes on all around you. Engage it.

Local Art Seen: Hamilton and Kuth Deliver the Goods. Plus, Emerging Photographers and Closing for the Member Show at the DAI

I've been in love with the work of Carla Hamilton and Elizabeth Kuth from the first time I encountered it. Their current exhibitions at the Duluth Art Institute Depot Galleries only confirms this impression. For sheer boldness, Carla Hamilton's Gezielt (Targeted) is unlike anything I have ever seen. The juxtapositions of the various images and eclectic mix of styles left me stirred and the opposite of speechless. I found myself talking with everyone I could about what was there, perhaps in an effort to get a handle on it or process it.

Elizabeth Kuth's show in the Morrison Gallery, Rooted Expression, clearly reflects her maturity as an abstract painter -- powerful, exploratory, evocative, engaging. The pieces are darker, deep and at home here in this space. And the space is large enough that one is able to stand back far enough to take it in.

The Emerging Photographers show in the Corridor Gallery makes for a great dessert--or appetizer if you came up through the elevator there. I regret not having more time, but had fun meeting some of the students whose work comprised this show.

Jeffrey Larson's Pheasants 

There was a very brief introduction of the artists at one point and a reminder of upcoming artist talks. Though it was also the closing night for the member show, the Great Hall was muted by all the excitement generated upstairs. One thing I did notice, however, was that there seemed to be a few more political statements this year than in years past. No doubt a sign of the times.

I'll be sharing more from in the days ahead.

@PantsOnFire by Patricia Lenz

The Killing Chair by Kris Nelson

Parisian Portraitist by Matt Kania

There's plenty more to say. This is just a taste. Be sure to read the backstory about Carla Hamilton's show which appeared in yesterday's DNT.

And don't miss next week's show at Trepanier Hall featuring Ugandan artist Steveboyyi Makubaya. March 4 at 6:30 p.m.

Meantime, art goes on all around you. Engage it. 

Almost Wordless Wednesday: The Many Faces of Ennyman

* * * * 

Tomorrow evening from 5-7 p.m. will be the closing reception for the DAI Member Show at the Duluth Depot. The upstairs galleries will feature opening receptions for three new exhibitions including Carla Hamilton's Gezielt and Elizabeth Kuth's Rooted Expression.

Visit this page for more Twin Ports Arts Happenings. 

Let's celebrate.

Twin Ports Arts Scene: December Happenings

Un-Typing Casta at the Tweed

Hard to believe it's December already. Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday have passed, but My guess is that your Christmas shopping has only just begun.

Well, quite a few of this month's arts activities will give you a chance to work through your gift lists. We have oodles of local artisans making items that are perfect as stocking stuffers to wearable art and functional art. Lift the spirits of loved ones and support the local arts simultaneously.

I'd like to begin here with a shout-out to Esther Piszczek who assembles much of the info I use on these monthly postings. Thank you. And if you have not seen her Zentangled piano and the story of its creation, visit this link to the 17-minute documentary Life and Art Entangled.

Now, for the List.
(EdNote: I am using colored fonts for eye candy. Live links are blue, like the one above.)

Pepperkakebyen, Duluth's Gingerbread City
Saturdays and Sundays, 1-5 p.m., through December 11 at the Nordic Center, 21 N. Lake Avenue View this amazing collection of Gingerbread houses handmade in Duluth.

Get It Local Art & Gift Fair
Saturday, Dec 3, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Peace Church, 1111 N. 11th Avenue E.
This is one of many local art fairs filled with talented artisans and artists.

Duluth Art Institute's Free Family Day: Handmade Holidays
Saturday, Dec. 3, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.  This event will take place at their Lincoln Park location at 2229 W. 2nd Street. "Make unique handmade gifts and cards for your loved ones this season. Even the littlest of gift givers can get in on the fun. No registration necessary."

Lake Superior College Student Art Show - Opening Reception
Monday, Dec. 5, 5-7 p.m.
Lake Superior College, 2101 Trinity Road, S Building;
Show runs Dec. 5-7, as follows:
Monday, Dec. 5: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 6: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 7: 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Brian Barber Art Opening
Thursday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m. @ Beaner's
I don't know anyone who doesn't enjoy the work of animator/illustrator Brian Barber.
With music by Jason & Veikko of Woodblind, Beaner's Central Coffeehouse, 324 N. Central Avenue.

2nd Fridy Art Crawl
Friday, Dec. 9, 6-8 p.m., 2nd Friday Art Crawl @ Duluth Fine Pianos, 305 E. Superior Street
Always a good place to stop on the 2nd Friday of the month if you are downtown. Esther P's home turf. There will be cookies for this festive evening surrounded by patterns and pianos.

Plys with Purpose @ the PROVE
Friday, Dec. 9, 4-7 p.m., The Prove Gallery is located at 21 N. Lake Avenue
"Plys With Purpose is Prøve Gallery’s third exhibition and silent auction of 30 crafted skateboard decks by local, national, and international artists all sharing one purpose, building skateboard parks in our communities."

Get to the Point: Awesome Art & Gift Fair
Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.,  Lafayette Square, Park Point, 3026 Minnesota Avenue

Textiles for Body & Mind
Erika Mock's studio is open the next two Fridays till Christmas. 4701 Cooke Street in Lakeside. While you're in the neighborhood, stop in at the Lakeside Gallery at 4431 East Superior Street where you find Aaaron Kloss's landscape paintings and plenty more. (Including a few of my pieces. You can also find my art a the children's book A Remarkable Tale from the Land of Podd at Goin' Postal in Superior.)

Winter Moon Holiday Boutique
Saturday, Dec. 17, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Zeitgeist Arts Atrium, 222 E. Superior Street
This is another one that is becoming a tradition, like the gingerbread houses and the Plys with Purpose. I think I've purchased something here every year they've done this. It will be the week before Christmas and if you haven't finished shopping, it's the last weekend you will have free.
Artists this year include:
Esther Piszczek of E.P. Designs, patterned cards, playing cards, puzzles, silk scarves, ceramics;
Patty Salo Downs of Miina Designs, felted scarves, bags, clothing;
Sally Cavallaro of Sally Cavallaro Designs, silver jewelry;
Mary Reichert of Otlak Felt Studio, felted scarves, bags, and rugs;
Natalijia Walbridge of Dock 5, custom screen printed canvas bags;
Barb Collette of Stained Glass by Collette, stained glass ornaments and art;
Lila Boehland of Lila Felt Creative, felted landscapes, bracelets, ornaments;
Annemarie Gorham of Lake Superior Beach Glass, beach glass jewelry, and
Heidi Ash of 185 Chocolat. (Heidi's chocolates exemplify the expression, "something to die for." They are that that yummy.)

There are number of new books from locals this year. Lucie Amundson's story about their plucky business Locally Laid came out this spring. It's vibrates with life and insights about life and business.
Patterned Peace, by Esther Piszczek, CZT, published by Whole Person Associates, Duluth is available on Amazon.com and The Bookstore at Fitgers. Original, hand-drawn artwork ready to color. Includes full pattern index.

If you get over to Superior there's always art to see at the Red Mug Coffeehouse, and a Christmas Village of artists kitty-korner akross the street where you can enjoy hot chocolate and more works by local artisans. Open on weekends. There's also plenty of art to see and purchase at Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI (new name / new location -- adjacent to Wine Creations.) There's parking in the back.

If you're looking for gift ideas for newborns and infants, be sure to check out this Etsy shop, Picture Book Boutique. You don't have to live in the Twin Ports to get there. Original creative expressions for baby showers and Christmas.

Last note: the Tweed and the Duluth Art Institute both have some great exhibits right now. Check 'em out while you're out and about.

Meantime, may your December be one to remember.