A Virtual Gallery Hop Like No Other: The Louvre, Guggenheim and Local Art, Too

Sitting Bull X 4

On one level it may seem like house arrest. On another level it might be a blessing to have to slow down, to catch one's breath after years of frenetic rat race life.

What I've observed, however, is that even within only a couple weeks of lockdown we're finding ways to fill up our time with busy-ness rather than getting laid back about it all. Those on social media have discovered storytelling, and via Zoom and other technologies we're getting invited to meetings and all manner of live events.

A Post-Modern Man

If you don't mind, I'm trying to stay away from most of those events because being busy all the time--at least for me--is not what I'm looking for out of life.

Nevertheless, I don't mind sharing a few things with you if you promise to take this in moderation.

This article in Hyperallergic had links to some of the world's great art museums. For example, you can tour the Guggenheim in New York, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, or the Louvre in Paris any time you want, any time of day or night. In fact, now that we're social distancing, this is the perfect time to visit the Louvre. No lines. No fees.

The one thing I do miss about living on the East Coast is access to the art galleries in New York, Philadelphia and the National Gallery in D.C., where I saw Vermeer's Girl with Pearl Earring many years ago when it was on loan there. In that moment I understood what Dali was striving for in his efforts to channel the Dutch master.

LOCALLY, artist talks are one of the regular features of the Duluth Art Institute, but with quarantines these talks have now gone virtual. You can see some of the work via video on their Facebook page, though it's nothing like being in person any more than a Polaroid camera can capture the Grand Canyon.

The Tweed Museum of Art on the UMD campus is closed for now but rumor has it there will be a virtual component for their collection.

Duluth Downtown Art Walk has been taking baby steps in that direction. Amanda Hunter of Joseph Nease Gallery made this video of Esther Piszczek's Zentangle Art that is on display at Duluth Fine Pianos. You can follow DDAW here on Facebook.

Somehow, I stumbled on this event and thought it looked interesting. If you're not sure what to do around mid-morning any of the next few days, the Roberta and Bob Rodgers Gallery of Omaha, Nebraska has been featuring a series of events titled Wanda Ewing: Prints.

For me personally, when I was a young art student, the whole purpose of looking at art and books about art was to get inspired to make art. I've been seeing a lot of new work displayed on Instagram by numerous artists from the local community. If you have some favorite artists, and are also on Instagram yourself, seek them out and follow. There's a lot happening out there, you just need to know where to look.

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

This Friday: A Big Night for Art in the Twin Ports

I won't make it to the Art Walk in Downtown Duluth this Friday because of the kickoff for North End Days and Superior Spooktacular.  There will be art and music at six locations this Friday evening. The weather folk promised a very welcoming experience for all who come out to do the stroll, whichever side of the bridge you hang out on.

Yesterday I was visiting Goin' Postal and am happy to say there's a lot of cool new work that will be hung, including paintings by Moira Villiard, Margie Helstrom, Sue Rauschenfels, Eric Horn and a host of others. I switched out a batch of things to display some new pieces of my own, so you'll have to come join us. It's historically been a highlight of the year, and I anticipate that this year will be no different.

Here's a brief summary of the venues and what's happening at each.

Honore Balzac After His Arm Was
Mauled by a Shark.

Goin Postal Fall Art Show 6pm-9pm:
Enjoy artwork from some of the best local artists in the area. Over 20 artists of various mediums will have work on display.

VIP "Frozen Photographers' Photography Show 6pm-10pm:
Enjoy photography from the best photographers the area has to offer.
Live Music by: Theft By Swindle, Velhasa and Revolution Jones

Thirsty Pagan: Lynn Zsidov-Steiner Solo Show 6pm-9pm:
Enjoy the amazing artwork of painter Lynn Zsidov-Steiner
Live Music by Israel Malachi, Sheila Wonders and Born Too Late

Framing by Stengl 6pm-9pm:
Enjoy artwork from Adam Swanson

Art on the Planet Open House 6pm-9pm:
Art on the Planet features beautiful, one-of-a-kind artist/artisan-made works is created with love, skill, and a piece of the artist's soul. (The place is packed with gift ideas. Christmas is just around the corner. Why wait for Black Friday?) I have a number of pieces here. You will also see some of Esther Piszczek's Zentangle designs, Kris Nelson's chairs and works by other familiar local names.

Empire Coffee 6pm-9pm:
Explore the photography of Joe Polecheck.
The coffee is good, too!

* * * *
Related Links
44 Twin Ports Artists (The Tweed Museum's Pinterest Pins)
Be sure to see Art In Conflict at the Tweed this fall, an exhibition from the Museum of Russian Art.
Twin Ports Art blog. 

Matthew Kluber @ Joesph Nease Gallery: SFX

Our June Downtown Duluth Art Crawl was once again rewarding, as noted here yesterday. Here are snapshots of the Matthew Kluber exhibition at Joseph Nease Gallery. Titled Friday, I'm In Love, Kluber's work is a continuation of his optical explorations and work with projectors.

It's interesting that the elevation of art as something significant is nothing new. Here are some comments from ancient philosophers, followed by a handful of more recent statements and observations about the arts.

It is not strength, but art, obtains the prize,
And to be swift is less than to be wise.
'Tis more by art, than force of numerous strokes.
--Homer

Ars longa, vita brevis est.
--Hippocrates

Painters and poets have equal license in regard to everything.
--Horace

More recent philosophers recognize the importance of art as well.

"I dream my painting, and then I paint my dream."
--Vincent Van Gogh

"A genuine work of art must mean many things; the truer its art, the more things it will mean."
--George MacDonald 

"Art is the supreme task and the truly metaphysical activity in this life… "
--Friedrich Nietzsche,

* * * * 

Any harm in inserting a selfie here?

Artists getting into it.... L to R: Kathryn Lenz, Kathy McTavish, Bruce Peckham,
Matthew Kluber and Dawn Kluber.

* * * *

Gallery manager Amanda Hunter shows Dale Lucas (Studio 101) some of the
work from previous shows.

* * * *

At the end of the day, art doesn't need to be explained. It needs to be experienced.

--L. E. Newman

Matt Oman's Species of Art, Revisited and a Pair of Arts-Related Reminders

Last week I was notified that Matt Oman has added some new work and re-arranged the gallery space in his garage. I first wrote about Matt after visiting in 2012 at which time he stated, “I don’t think I mentioned that my biggest/favorite/most complex piece of artwork is my house.”

Oman graduated from UMD as a history major, but it was his love of beauty that attracted him to the arts. His works are generally small compositions of mixed media, collage or other compositions. Conceptual artists work in ideas or words. Oman's pieces each have a story, a concept, a revelation.

The words Species of Art is imprinted just inside the door of his garage, which has become a moniker of sorts for this garage cum gallery. Many of the pieces have no identifying titles or comments, but others include words, which sometimes offer keys for unlocking other meanings. Here are some of the words that appear on the various pieces:

Section 1: The Cultural
Pool of Water
The Smallest Blue Dot
Eating/Impenetrable
Science/What are the Chances?/Understanding the Universe
Intelligence Tested
Destroy All Monsters and Goddess
The Female Gaze
Lord Gallery
Romantic Realist
The Story of Human Language. Creation Myths
Bat Cave

If you were to visit, you would find many pieces that are simply thought provoking, and others that reveal a humorous wit. 

* * * *

EVENTS OF NOTE
THIS WEEKEND

49th Annual Park Point Art Fair

http://www.parkpointartfair.org/

Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

1st Anniversary
Downtown Duluth Arts Walk

Details Here

Related Links

2012 story about Matt Oman's Series of Art

2018 story about Matt Oman's Species of Art

Summer is here. Enjoy the sunshine!

Coolest Art Studio in Duluth? A Few Snapshots from Friday's Downtown Art Walk

#1 Studio Space in Duluth?

Friday night was the last Downtown Art Walk before Christmas. I made it to several places, caught some jazz piano by Sam Chandler at Duluth Fine Pianos (next to Starbucks on Superior Street) and had a host of interesting conversations with interesting people. Plenty of photos were taken, among them these shots from Alison Aune's studio and the HQ workspace of Jon Hinkel's Tight Squeek Press. A visit to Joseph Nease Gallery down the street is always an imperative.

A note regarding Sam Chandler: The high school senior is one of the students participating in the Duluth Armory's Music Resource Center at Sacred Heart. I was introduced to his music via a CD titled First Steps featuring the Sam Chandler Trio. Sam was playing serious music at age five and got turned on to jazz piano at age 14. I believe he was 15 when he produced the CD, and my expectations were low when I was gifted the CD. From the first track I was won over. In point of fact, this is a first class production, and you can find it here on CD Baby.

* * * *
Here are some scenes from DowntownArt Walk starting with Alison Aune's space. I love visiting artists' studio spaces. Wouldn't you love it if this were your office?

Alison Aune's studio is vibrant, alive with light and color.

It was the shortest day of the year, but the colors were still radiant.

Jon Hinkel shares bookbinding secrets with Dmitri & Ellen Sandbeck.

A few tools of the trade.

Duluth Fine Pianos has a new spacious home next door to Starbuck.

Sam Chandler had an opportunity to demonstrate his noteworthy skills.

There was more to see than this, and I wish I had.

As for the arts in Duluth... Visual Artists: be sure to renew your Duluth Art Institute membership and get you selection ready for the annual member show Jan 24. To submit work you must be a member and drop off your piece January 14-16. The exciting part of this show is that all work is new, created within the past year. 

Meantime, art goes on all around you. Engage 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.

Twin Ports Arts Scene: August Happenings... Hot Times, Summer in the City

Holy moly, can you believe it? Esther sent me nine pages of Arts Happenings for your August calendars. I'll see what we can get posted today.

But first, let's note the definition of August. The word means respected and impressive. I would suggest that this applies to the Twin Ports Arts Scene. Synonyms include distinguished, respected, eminent, venerable, hallowed, illustrious, prestigious, renowned, celebrated, honored, acclaimed, esteemed, and exalted.

O.K., maybe that's a bit much. Minnesota's bachelor farmers would be staring down at the ground, kicking the dirt, shuffling a bit and scratching their heads wondering why all the fancy talk. "We're just doing our thing."

Well, let's get on with it. No question there's a lot going on. Here's a chronological listing to whet your apps.

* * * *

Wednesday, August 1, 7-9 p.m.  Artist Reception: Jamie Harper, Pizza Luce, 11 E. Superior Street
"Artist Jamie Harper of Winona, MN, uses salvaged latex house paint on reused hollow-core interior doors. The exhibit consists of more then 30 large, colorful paintings depicting the scenes and species of the north shore and north woods. Harper has also painted Duluth-based folk/blues musician Charlie Parr’s album cover for Barnswallow." FB Page

Wednesday, August 1, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Rooftop Wednesdays with Sean and Ian Okamoto, Pier B Resort, 800 Railroad Street (FREE)
"Sean and Ian Okamoto are a father/son duo based out of Hayward, Wisconsin, featuring Sean on guitar, Ian on piano, and both on vocals. Sean has been working as a musician for over four decades, and during that time he has been a figure in the music scene in both Indiana and Wisconsin. Ian has been playing piano and singing all his life, and started performing with his dad in the summer of 2012." FB Page [Note from Esther: I've seen them perform and they are super fun to watch and listen to. My husband has been tuning Ian's piano for years. He is super talented and this is a musical duo worth hearing!]

Thursday, August 2, 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.

Friday, August 3, 3-10 p.m., Saturday, August 4, 3-10 p.m., Honey Bee Folk Festival, Oldenburg House, 604 Chestnut Avenue, Carlton The inaugural two-day Honeybee Folk Festival will feature music by Northern Shoveler, Gossamer Strings, Lowland Lakers, Black River Revue and more, along with information and pollinator-friendly activities, including: poetry, stories, and artists/potters who feature bees in their work. Admission: One Day Pass $20; Two Day Pass $30.

Friday, August 3, 8:45 p.m., Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park: Wonder (PG), Leif Erikson Park

Saturday, August 4, 1:00-3:00 p.m., Linda Naughton's Poppies at Lakeside Gallery, 4431 East Superior Street in Lakeside.

Mondays, August 6, 613, 20, 27, 5:30 p.m., Tangling Mondays, Mount Royal Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle
This group meets in the the old Yarn Harbor space, which was taken over by the library awhile back (on the left when you walk in). It is open to anyone, but primarily focused on pattern drawing. Bring your supplies and something you want to finish or start. No instruction, no fee, no organization. It's wonderful to tangle together, if schedules align, and lovely to tangle alone. If you find yourself alone, no worries, another Monday is right around the corner. Enjoy!

Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28, 12:30-3 p.m., Open Studio at the Duluth Depot, 506 W. Michigan Street
The Duluth Art Institute offers a regular Tuesday open art-studio session at the Depot. People of all abilities practicing all artistic mediums are invited to bring their own supplies and join the weekly group. Cost: $5 plus a DAI membership (first session is free).

Tuesday, August 7, 3-5 p.m., Crafternoons for Adults, Green Room, Duluth Public Library, 520 W. Superior Street
The past six months I've been visiting the library more than ever, and there seems to be more going on than you can imagine. Esther sent this note about the 7th: "Join us for a variety of creative projects including coloring, dot-to-dot, painting, Zentangle (R) squares, and card making. Fun and relaxing. We have something for every adult to enjoy! No registration or experience necessary."

Thursday, August 9, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, August 10, 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m.-7:15 p.m. Sunday, August 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m, Lake Superior Chainsaw Sculpture Championship, Barkers Island, 15 Marina Drive, Superior, WI
[EdNote: web site not yet updated for 2018 as of this posting, but schedule of events is likely similar to 2017 event]
"Chainsaw artists from around the world turn simple logs into stunning works of wildlife themed art. Master and guest carvers compete each day in “quick carve” events. The sculptures will be on the auction block at the end of the day’s competition on both Friday and Saturday evening. The four-day event ends with an official judging of the wildlife themed sculptures created by master carvers over the course of the Lake Superior Chainsaw Sculpture Championship. Those works will be available to the highest bidder at Sunday’s auction following the award presentations." FB Page; Perfect Duluth Day Calendar Event Listing
Admission: One Day Pass: $7; Four Day Pass: $12; Kids 12 and under free with ticketed adult.

Thursday, August 9, 5-9 p.m., Artist Reception: Clare Cooley's Warblers & Wildflowers,
The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, 902 E. 1st Street "Cooley’s 26 unique pieces each depict a different species of regional bird and bloom. The exhibit runs from August 10 until October 1. Open hours: Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m." FB Page

Thursday, August 9, 5:30-8 p.m., Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue "It's okay if you've never painted anything but your walls, there's no experience necessary and fun is our only requirement! Your $30.00 registration fee includes: Class lessons with step by step instructions and pointers, furnished canvas, panel, or pallet, easels, paint, clean-up supplies, and refreshments. Please wear your "painting" clothing...because accidents happen! (Must be 21 to register)
        Stop in to Art on the Planet to make your reservation or visit the "shop" page (here: https://www.facebook.com/artontheplanet/shop/ ) to register for this fun night! Or call: (715) 969-8213 for more information.

Papercut tiger by Ellen Sandbeck.

Friday, August 10, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Artist Reception: Ellen Sandbeck and Moira Villard: Endangered: Lives & Ways of Living, Dr. Robert Powless Cultural Center, AICHO, 212 W. Second Street
"Papercut artist Ellen Sandbeck and painter Moira Villiard’s art exhibit explores the human impact on the environment through two lenses: on one side of the gallery, endangered species line the wall in the form of intricate paper-cut images illuminating a broad spectrum of vulnerable biodiversity, while on the other side, illustrations depicting the history of wild ricing delve into what’s at stake for a way of life in the face of sulfide mining."
On View through August 31. Admission: FREE - $10 suggested donation at the door

Friday, August 10, 8:35 p.m., Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park: Footloose (PG 13), Leif Erikson Park

Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m., Duluth Youth Creative Challenge Reception, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Retail Center, 425 W. Superior Street, #1060
DYCC participants will be submitting a unique piece of art within one of the six themes: Fairy Tales, Great Outdoors, Heroes, Out of Place, Being Healthy, and Through a Window. Cash prizes. Top picks will be displayed August 6th-31st.

Saturday, August 11, 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."

Sunday, August 12, 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. Member of the audience are also welcome to sign-up on the night for an 8 minute open mic journal-sharing segment. Suggested Donation: $5 at the door. [EdNote: Esther P. will be a featured teller at this event]

Tuesday, August 14, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Loon Summer Sparkler, Northland Country Club, 3901 E. Superior Street 5:30 p.m. - Burgers, brats and beverages available for purchase 7 p.m. - Concert featuring the Twin Ports Tenors: William Bastian, Marcus McConico, Calland Metts, John Pierce; Beth Sobszak, piano

Lyric Opera of the North’s annual summer fundraising event features the Twin Ports Tenors and a raffle to bring opera to elementary school students. The event will take place rain or shine. Tickets: $25 general admission purchased on line or by phone, 218-464-0922.

Tuesday, August 14, 6 p.m., Film: From the Top: A Choice Unlimited Class Presentation, Zinema 2, Zeitgeist Arts, 222 E. Superior Street "A grant from Arrowhead Regional Arts Council made it possible to offer a short video/film class that began this past fall. Students from Choice Unlimited ARTS Program contributed to the writing, acting, directing and editing of original short films." FREE

Thursday, August 16, 2:30-4 p.m., Crafternoons for Kids, Blue Room, Mount Royal Branch Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle "Kids are invited to drop into the Blue Room for a make-and-take craft project. No experience or sign up required."

Thursday, August 16, music and painting at Art on the Planet & Wine Beginnings, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior, WI
5 p.m., Painting & Wine! "We will create a four Wine Glass Set painted with the "It's All About the Beach!" theme! $35.00 registration fee includes: Class lesson with step-by-step instructions; Glasses, Brushes and Paint, Prep supplies, Food and Drink Clean up by us! Please bring clothing that you don’t care to get paint on, because accidents happen ;) Must be 21 to register. Register @ Wine Beginnings during business hours or on Facebook!
6:30 p.m. Music by Similar Dogs: "Joe Lindzius and Sarah Jane Hale, play a diverse repertoire grounded by acoustic guitar." "Check it out! You can stop in and browse the artisan offerings at Art on the Planet, taste some special samples of selected flavors at Wine Beginnings and enjoy the sweet serenade of Similar Dogs! Music starts at 6:30.... but the FUN is available all day!"

Saturday, August 18, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Art on Tap, Fitgers, 600 E. Superior Street
Fitgers will be hosting a pop-up art fair with artists representing multiple disciplines. A wonderful place to find a unique wedding or graduation gift.

Add caption

Saturday, August 18 and Sunday August 19. The 2018 Herbster Studio Art Tour.
A chance to see national and regionally acclaimed artists as they open their studios on Superior's South Shore. Herbster is a little West of Cornucopia....  Details here.

Saturday, August 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, August 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Art in Bayfront Park, Bayfront Festival Park
"Art in Bayfront Park is a two-day art fair offering an opportunity to purchase works from more than 100 regional artists, including jewelry, paintings, photography, ceramics, metalwork, glass and more. There will also be food vendors, craft beer samples in the Bernick’s Tent from 2 to 4 p.m., live music and a car show."

Friday, August 17, 8:25 p.m., Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park: Jumanji (PG), Leif Erikson Park

Wednesday, August 18, 6:30-9:00 p.m., Zentangle (R) & Wine, 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.

Friday, August 24, 8:10 p.m., Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park: La La Land (PG 13), Leif Erikson Park

Saturday, August 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Art in the Neighborhood, 4419 London Road; 2-3 p.m.: Kiara Didier will be playing classical Viola
"A unique Art Event located at the Home of Barb and Jim Collette: Stained Glass by Collette. Open stained glass studio with local artisans inside and outside. Featuring Stained Glass, Hand Crafted Jewelry, Photography, Water Colors, Mixed Media, Textile Art, Paintings, Local Vendors, and Duluth Inspired works. Any questions call: 217-590-6055. And see photos at Instagram Collette_stainedglass

Monday, August 27, 3-5 p.m., Crafternoons for Adults, Blue Room, Mount Royal Branch Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle Drop in for a variety of creative projects No experience or sign-up required.

Friday, August 31, 4-9 p.m., Downtown Duluth Arts Walk, multiple locations.
"The Downtown Duluth Arts Collective presents this night of art and entertainment, featuring Downtown Duluth art galleries, eateries, bars and performance venues. The Downtown Arts Walk is a multi-location, walkable, year-round event held on the final Friday of each month. Posters and flags bearing the logo are up at each location. The Downtown Duluth Arts Collective is a group of colleagues representing more than 25 arts businesses and groups, individual artist studios and cultural centers." Look for the DDAC Flag/logo at participating venues (attached). Email manager @ josephneasegallery.com or call 218-461-8380 for more information.

Friday, August 31, 8:00 p.m., Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park: Despicable Me 3 (PG), Leif Erikson Park

ART on VIEW 
Chholing Taha: Every Spirit Tells a Story, Duluth Art Institute Morrison Gallery, The Depot, 506 Michigan Street
"Chholing Taha is a CreeFirst Nations artist based in Anoka, MN who uses Native imagery to express both contemporary issues and indigenous stories. Solitude and wilderness have been a loyal companion throughout her lifetime." On View: July 12-September 2.

Sonic Divide: States, The Duluth Art Institute, John Steffl Gallery, The Depot, 506 Michigan Street "The Sonic Divide: States film features 30 commissioned scores from 30 different composers performed during MacDonald’s mountain bike journey along the Great Divide. Four paintings, by Duluth painter Kenneth D. Johnson, accompany the film." Film Screening: Thursday, July 12, 7:30-9 p.m., The Duluth Playhouse On View: July 12-September 2.

Jonathan Thunder: Suspension of Disbelief, The Duluth Art Institute, Corridor Gallery, The Depot, 506 Michigan Street "The term suspension of disbelief has been defined as a willingness to suspend one’s critical faculties and believe something surreal. Thunder’s project will feature sound and what he calls ‘animated canvases’, a hybrid of hand painting and animation. The space will serve as an area for the artist to experiment with a variety of media and modes of installation in working towards a large-scale exhibition. There will be an artist talk at the close of the exhibition." On View: July 12-September 2.

DAI BIENNIAL
The Call for Art has gone out for the 62nd Arrowhead Regional Biennial. Deadline to submit is September 14, 2018. It's a $20 entrance fee. For more information contact Jason Pearson at the DAI, jpearson@duluthartinstitute.org.

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Book & Film

Patterned Peace, by Esther Piszczek, CZT, published by Whole Person Associates, Duluth. Available on Amazon.com, at The Bookstore at Fitger's, Zenith Bookstore (next to Beaner's Central in West Duluth), and Duluth Fine Pianos. Original, hand-drawn artwork ready to color. Includes full pattern index.
Life & Art Entangled, a 17 minute art documentary created by Lola Visuals featuring Zentangle (R) inspired artwork on a piano created by fine-line pattern artist Esther Piszczek, CZT, and the improvisational jazz piano music of Peter Brown. Life & Art Entangled debuted at the 2016 Duluth Superior Film Festival. Watch on YouTube.com.

Ed's Books: http://www.ennyman.com/books/books.html

Places to find my art in the Twin Ports:
Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior
Goin’ Postal, 814 Tower Avenue, Superior
The Break Room, 5th Avenue East & 4th Street, Duluth
The Armory Annex, 1325 London Road

Places to find Esther’s art in the Twin Ports:
Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior
Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street, next to Starbucks
Master Framing Gallery, 1431 London Road, Duluth
Zenith City News, E.P. Designs, a regular Zentangle (R) inspired art feature in this newspaper, which can be found at various public locations around the Twin Ports and online.

CLOSING NOTE: IF YOU ARE AN ARTISAN OR CRAFTSPERSON LOOKING FOR A STUDIO SPACE with plenty of light, check out the Armory Annex. They are clearing an area with a beautiful window view of Leif Erickson Park and the great lake.

Peace Church Hosts Woman-Made Art & Gift Fair. And Don't Forget Friday Night's Art Crawl.

This coming Saturday, July 28, is the Woman-Made Art & Gift Fair, featuring 24 Northland female artists. The is the 10th year of this event, which is rightfully subtitled "Marvelous Things Made By Northland Women." Admission is Free and so is the parking.

TIME: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.,

ADDRESS: Peace Church, 1111 N. 11th Avenue E.

Jewelry, ceramics, glass, soaps, garden items, photography, water colors, books, clothing, glass art and more. Here's a link to Susie's Gift Bags, Cards and Tags. In my opinion, you can never buy enough cards from local artists. Yes, it's nice when your Facebook "friends" wish you a Happy Birthday, but nothing says it like a card or gift, especially original, hand-made-with-creativity-and-love kinds of cards and gifts. Rachael Kilgour will also be adding her music magic around midday.

The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well, and at the Woman-Made Fair the creative spirit is likewise prominent.

For more information visit: www.wendyupnorth.com/  Wendy describes herself as an entrepreneur whose passion is connecting people to arts, music & history. Stop by Peace Church this Saturday and Get Connected.

OTHER ACTIVITIES OF NOTE

Alison Aune's studio inside the Pineapple Arts Building will be open Friday evening
during the Arts Walk. Check out some of the work that she will be shipping off
to Estonia and Finland later this summer!

Tomorrow evening @ Joseph Nease Gallery -- Opening Reception for Transitions. 5-8 p.m. during the Downtown Duluth Art Walk.

Friday, July 27, 8:50 p.m Greater Downtown Council's Movies in the Park will be showing the New version of Ghostbusters (PG 13), at Leif Erikson Park.

Saturday, July 28, 3-7 p.m., Art on Tap, All Pints North Summer Brew Fest, Bayfront Festival Park 120+ Breweries; 21+ Only Event - ID Required at Entry; Rain or Shine; No Pets Allowed; Blankets and Folding Chairs Allowed; Sealed Water Bottle Allowed.  Designated Drivers Recommended.

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READ THE DNT STORY 
for details about tomorrow evening's Downtown Duluth Art Walk.

Friday evening, 5 to 8 p.m. Downtown Duluth Art Walk

"Build a house?" exclaimed John.

"For the Wendy," said Curly.

"For Wendy?" John said, aghast. "Why, she is only a girl!"

"That," explained Curly, "is why we are her servants.”

― J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan

Local Art Happenings As We Enter the New Year

In a few hours 2014 will come to a close. For many of us it's been a year of both achievements and disappointments, a year of satisfactions and sorrows. And a year rich in beauty. After a lingering look back, we turn the page and turn our faces to what lies ahead. I sincerely hope that for each of you 2015 will be a very special year in a way that deepens some aspect of your life in a profound way.

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Pink Aspens by Kenneth Marunowski

Here in the Twin Ports the art scene is bursting out of the gate like a flash-bang. There will be some exciting openings over the next ten days. If you can make any that will be good. If you can make all, that will be great.

Esther Piszczek's Visions at Benchmark Tattoo.
The opening will be this Friday, January 2 from 6-9 p.m.
Benchmark Tattoo, is located at 1831 E. 8th Street.  Her Zentangle-inspired art will be on display through the end of the month. And if you're interested in doing Zentangle creations, she teaches classes. You can find her on Facebook or email at episzczek@gmail.com

Kenneth Marunowski will be sharing new work for the month of January in the Zeitgeist Atrium.
The opening for Ken's show is Monday, January 5th at 7pm, which will include free food from the Zeitgeist Arts Cafe and half-price whiskey.

Marunowski is originally from Ohio, having received his Bachelor degree at Kent State. His plein air painting and drawing is stellar. Having also studied French he spent his junior year abroad in Aix-en-Provence, France at the Marchutz School of Painting and Drawing. (I'm jealous.) You can read more about the artist and this event here.

Ineke Grounds is the featured artist for January at the Red Mug Coffeehouse in Superior. The opening is slated for Thursday January 8. The show spotlights new work and is titled Bloom. The Red Mug always assembles wonderful receptions, and the time is just right for the after-work crowd, 5 - 7 p.m. I hope to see your there.

Second Friday Art Crawl
There are at least three places in Downtown Duluth where a art-fan can walk, talk and gawk on January 9.

The PRØVE Collective has announced the theme of their January event as Vestiges. In addition to being a release party for issue IV of their PRØOF Magazine, there will be an art exhibition featuring work pertaining to the impact of new media on old media. In addition to featuring art & writing by Jeremiah Moriarty, Sharon Rogers, Susanna Gaunt, Sheila Packa, Robert Adams, Hanna Newman, Devon O’Shaughnessy, Kevin Ealain, Darren Houser, Deanna Erickson, Andy Mattern, Samuel Orosz, Ed Newman, and em westerlund, featured artist and writer Brian Beatty will be reading from his work along with other select writers. 7 - 11 p.m.

If you like the early part of the evening for art before getting dinner and taking in a show, you can begin a few blocks east at Pierce & Piszczek Fine Pianos, 405 E. Superior Street. This is a joint art exhibit with nature photographer Ladona Tornabene, Ph.D. and Esther Piszczek. The artwork is displayed in a setting of beautiful, new YAMAHA and vintage pianos. Light refreshments will be served.

For your libations after these two shows, head over to The Red Herring on first street and check out the work of Patricia Canelake. It's always full of life.

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One final item of note: Today in 1869 French artist Henri Matisse was born.

During the year ahead... let ideas challenge you and beauty wash over you. Have a truly great 2015.