Esther Piszczek's Discovery Art Show at the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Duluth Retail Center

The first time I tried to see an art show at the Blue Cross/Blue Shield Duluth Retail Center I gave up in frustration because I foolishly went to 425 East Superior Street. Because it was Blue Cross/Blue Shield related I wrongly assumed it would be located in the vicinity of our primary health care campuses. Eventually I figured it out, and in case you have never been there, it is a nice space which you'll want to be aware of, within walking distance of the Depot (Duluth Art Institute home) and our Duluth Public Library. The art space is located on the ground floor of the Maurices Building. If you're entering from the sidewalk, go left.

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Esther Piszczek's current exhibit is on display for a few more days only and will come down after the 20th. The show is called Discovery, the latest iteration of Esther's Zentangle journey. Discovery features her usual striking designs combined with a new presentation: Origami. This is her first solo show in six years.  

Esther is a Certified Zentangle(R) Teacher, a former attorney who now helps promote the local arts through her Twin Ports Art blog. She's developed a strong fan following, in part because of her encouraging manner of teaching and her uplifting spirit. You can learn more about Esther and her work eternalpossibility.com

detail

Artist Statement

This has been a year of great Discovery of things inside of me. I have discovered my worth, value, deservingness. These aren’t states I’ve earned, they have always been there waiting for me to open my heart and mind to their truth and presence. Through the gifts of Zentangle, Heartwork Journaling and channeling, I have opened my heart to the beauty and simplicity of what is and allowed myself to become. Allowing is a process. A process of noticing, accepting, releasing expectation, doubt, fear, and worry. Through the process of allowing, I have learned to trust that the unknown is not a fiend waiting to rob me of my security and joy, but a beautiful present to be acknowledged, savored, and held in gratitude. I have realized that a great, deep well of courage resides inside of me and this well never runs dry. I have accepted that I am enough. I am a fallible, imperfect human being and I am enough. I have acknowledged that my perfection is not required, and never has been. I am because I am. A being of pure light in human form remembering from whence I came and where I will return. Life is too short to wait for perfect, a state that will never come into being. This moment is here now. I am here now. This journey of discovery continues and I am curious to find out what the next moment holds. 

Related Link

First Lesson In Zentangle with Esther Piszczek

Zentangle Goes Zoom with Esther Piszczek

I'm guessing that if at the beginning of the year you asked Esther Piszczek if she imagined she'd be teaching Zentangle drawing classes online via Zoom, she very likely would have laughed. "What's Zoom?" she may have asked.

As we've all discovered, much has changed these past six months, both globally and locally. The craving to make art remains alive in so many of us. The creative spark or creative urge is something many feel innate, as part of being human. Hence, Leo Tolstoy more than a century ago said, "Without art mankind could not exist." 

As I read this month's Twin Ports Art blog I noticed that Esther Piszczek has continued her Zentangle classes, even with the lockdown. I reached out to learn more about how her classes were going.

EN: How long after the lockdown occurred before you discovered you could teach Zentangle online? 

Esther Piszczek: It took me one month to start teaching on Zoom. I taught my first official class on Wednesday, April 15, after a quick prep class with two Zentangle (R) teacher friends.

The lockdown occurred mid-March. I knew almost right away that other teachers were teaching online Zentangle (R) classes, but I'd never imagined I would be able to teach online with any success as I value the in person interaction a live class provides. When the quarantine happened in mid-March, I'd taught one of four Advanced Zentangle classes in person at Ordean East Middle School through Duluth Community Education. We decided to put the class on hold, hoping we'd be able to meet again in person to finish the class. So that class didn't spur me to begin teaching online, but my Zentangle (R) & Wine class was scheduled for April 15 and I didn't want to cancel it because that group of students has been drawing with me monthly for years. When I finally decided to teach online, I met with a teacher friend of mine in Madison, WI, who helped me get started on Zoom and set up a Paypal account to accept donations. Next, I created a website so I would have a place to advertise my classes and showcase my students' work. I'm so glad I decided to teach online. It has challenged me and delighted me in many ways.

EN: When you teach at the gallery you take 3 hours. Are your Zoom classes shorter or the same?

EP: My gallery classes and my Zoom classes are 2.5 hours long. Sometimes they run long, especially at the gallery where everyone has been drawing together for years, but the Zoom classes generally end on time or sometimes early.

EN: What were the biggest challenges?

EP: My biggest challenge initially was converting my drawing pad and easel set up where I stand to teach to a Zoom set up that limits my set up to the area where my webcam is located. I held an initial class with two Zentangle teacher friends in mid April using a standing set up before holding my first class on April 15. For the April 15 class, I was still standing to teach and the camera height required me to place my easel on a platform, which also required me to stretch to draw on the drawing pad. I was exhausted and experiencing physical pain by the end of the 2.5 hour class and knew I needed to tweak the set up. Next I set up a table in front of my computer / web cam and put a table easel on it that held a much smaller drawing pad than the one I use on my standing easel. That worked much better. My next challenge was lighting. I was using a shop light to light one side of my easel that a friend allowed me to borrow, but it wasn't a standing light. I propped it up with a hand held weight and leaned it against my drawing easel, but if I bumped my easel while drawing, the light would tip over and I had to scramble to catch it more than once. So I did some research on standing lamps and purchased a standing Ott Lite that never tips over and also lights my space.

Another challenge is creating the class mosaics you see on my website. When I hold a class in person, I arrange all of the student tiles into a class mosaic on a black piece of poster board and take a picture. I then email that picture to the class. My students love receiving the class mosaics where they can see all the class tiles together and study/learn from other students' drawing/shading choices. Now, students take their own tile pictures and send them to me so I can create a class mosaic. For my largest class so far, I had 11 individual photos to edit and place to create the class mosaic, plus a picture of my demo tile. When those pictures are well taken, the editing process is easy, but when the camera is misaligned or an edge of the tile is cut off, it becomes more difficult to edit the photo and have it look good. Fortunately, I have really great photo editing software that can fix quite a bit.

EN: Has it gotten easier?

EP: Yes! Now that my set up is figured out and I have a pretty consistent group of students, I'm spending less time sending out introductory emails talking about what supplies students will need for the class (all things you can find at home), and my set up is really quick now. And I am so grateful that I never have to worry about knocking over my light during class. I've also spent time educating my students about what makes a tile photograph easiest to edit, since then, the quality of the photographs has improved and now I spend less time editing each photo to create the class mosaic.

EN: Have you had students from other parts of the country or overseas participating? 

EP: Yes. I have a longtime friend, we met in India when I was a Rotary Exchange Student there in 1987, who found my classes on Facebook. She'd been looking for a new art class to explore and I was delighted when she emailed me from Oregon to sign up for the class. She's been taking classes, sometimes twice weekly, since May 27. Another longtime student lives in Ontonogan, MI, and invited her artist niece Lauren from Baton Rouge, LA to come to class. They both draw with me on Monday nights for my advanced class. Lauren invited her 13 year old stepdaughter to join my Zentangle Foundations class on Wednesday nights and they have been drawing with me weekly, as well. Another long time student is a nun from the St. Scholastica Monastery who got quarantined in Chicago and she joins us from there. I've also had classes with friends in ME and NH. I haven't had any international students yet, but friends of mine want to have a class with my friend's mother who lives in Romania, so I could have an international student sometime soon.

EN: The gallery space was compressed and had a feeling of intimacy that was special. If you were in a larger room, could you return to socially distanced Zentangle classes in person? 

EP: Yes, however, my students have expressed concern about meeting in public and have also said how much they enjoy the Zoom format. My community ed class that was put on hold in mid-March met for the second class of the four class series on Monday, June 29. I asked them whether they would like to meet in person at the school for the remaining two classes, as I was told by the coordinator that that is now possible, but they all said they are more comfortable meeting online.

Another benefit to Zoom is the number of students I am able to teach at one time. You mentioned the intimate feeling of the space at Master Framing Gallery where I have taught Zentangle & Wine classes monthly since 2014. That space holds 7 at capacity and it is a bit of a squeeze. My first official Zoom class was a Zentangle & (bring your own) Wine class on April 15 and there were 9 students in the class. I wouldn't have been able to fit 9 students in the Gallery at any time. My classes say they are limited to eight, but that reflects the number of screens. I regularly have a mother / daughter duo who draw together on their front porch in Lakeside. When they are on one screen, it means I can add a ninth student to the class. The largest class so far has been eleven with six of those students on only three screens.

NOTEWORTHY
The Duluth Art Institute is now Open.

Related Links
Esther Piszczek's Patterned Peace
Local Art Seen: First Lesson in Zentangle with Esther Piszczek
A Slideshow of Zentangle Drawings at EternalPossibility.com

Twin Ports Art Scene: January Calendar of Arts Events Courtesy Esther Piszczek

THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER
Let the sunshine in!

Here's a portion of what's happening in January here in the Twin Ports, beginning with...

Monday, January 13, 5-7 p.m.
"The Transformative Power of Public Television" Opening Reception at the Zeitgeist Arts Cafe.
WDSE•WRPT continues to celebrate our 55 years of connecting community. As part of the celebration, we turn our attention to the local arts scene! Please join us January 13th at Zeitgeist’s Café and Arts Center for the WDSE•WRPT art show: The Transformative Power of Public Television.

Several local artists will have artwork on display. Their inspiration drawn from any of WDSE•WRPT’s four channels: PBS North, Explore, Create and MN Channel, and from any of the programs that have been featured throughout the history of the station, including national shows such as Mister Rogers Neighborhood, Nature, Nova, Masterpiece, Antiques Roadshow, or local shows like Almanac North, Native Report, Making It Up North, Doctors on Call, Great Gardening and so many more. 

The evening will also highlight the work of local philanthropist and visual artist Julia Marshall. Julia was a major supporter of WDSE•WRPT. We are fortunate to have her beautiful body of work displayed in the atrium. In addition, for one night only, you will find our own Bob Ross painting on display! Facebook Link Here.

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, January 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).

Tuesdays, January 14, 21, 28, 6-8 p.m.

Celtic Song Circle, Wussow's Concert Cafe, 324 N. Central Avenue

"Musicians of all ages are invited to bring their instruments and voices to perform in a song circle, playing Celtic tunes and other classics."

Wednesday, January 15, 6:30-9 p.m.

Zentangle (R) & Wine with Esther Piszczek, CZT, 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.

You can read about one student's experience here: Local Art Seen: First Lesson in Zentangle with Esther Piszczek, by Ed Newman, Ennyman's Territory, August 18, 2019.

Thursday, January 16, 3-4 p.m.

Crafternoons for Kids, Blue Room, Mount Royal Branch Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle

"Drop in for a fun make-and-take craft project. No experience or sign-up required. Age Group(s): Preschool, Kids, Tweens"

Thursdays, January 16, 4 p.m.

Winter Farmer's Market, Duluth Folk School, 1917 Superior Street
"Community Action Duluth’s Seeds of Success program is partnering with the Duluth Folk School to host the Lincoln Park Winter Farmer’s Market. Come down on the first and third Thursday of the month, from November through March!"

Friday, January 17, 6-8 p.m.
Jazz@DFP, Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street
A night of jazz surrounded by pianos and the Zentangle (R) inspired artwork of Esther Piszczek, CZT. ($10 suggested donation to pay the musicians) I would love to see you at this event!
Musicians: Ryan Frane, Piano, Joey Pettit, Bass, Jennifer Parker, Vocalist

Friday, January 17, 7-10 p.m.
Art Opening: Metamorphose, 
Prøve Gallery, 21 N. Lake Avenue

"Local painter Sarah Brokke presents Metamorphose, her exhibition of new painting that extrude the sacred from dreams and everyday existence." On View: through February 21

Saturday, January 18, 7 p.m.

Short Shorts Film Festival 2020, 
The Underground, 506 W. Michigan Street

"The 15th annual Short Shorts Film Festival showcases videos that are less than five minutes in duration, with cash prizes awarded to the top three productions. It’s northern Minnesota’s only short film festival.

"This festival is open to local, national and international submissions from professional and amateur artists working in all genres. A panel of judges selects the top 15 finalists and a live audience picks the top three winners at the event. The night’s top three winners are awarded cash prizes: First place: $300, second place $200, third place $100. Tickets: $20"

Monday, January 20, 6-8:30 p.m.

Printmaking Club, Duluth Art Institute, Lincoln Park Building, 

"The Duluth Art Institute hosts a print-making club in their printmaking studio in Lincoln Park for its members. The club meets the first and third Monday of the month through March. All levels of experience are welcome. Attendees should bring their own supplies and reference materials including drawings, sketches and photos for ideas and inspiration. A $10 donation per session is suggested. This group meets on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month."

Wednesday, January 22, 6-7:30 p.m.
Soap-making Demo, Mount Royal Branch, Duluth Public Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle
"Leane Rhoads leads a soap-making workshop in the Blue Room of the Mount Royal Branch of the Duluth Public Library. Rhoads will demonstrate how to properly handle and store lye, test for trace, add essential oils for fragrance and follow recipes. Rhoads already has a lot of soap, so someone will be going home with some soap as a door prize."

Friday, January 24, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 26, 3 p.m.

Amahl and the Night Visitors By Gian Carlo Menotti, Masonic Temple, 4 W. 2nd Street

"LOON’s family-friendly favorite returns by popular demand! A vivid and accessible story originally created for television, Amahl and the Night Visitors features beautiful melodies, engaging characters and a heartwarming message that resonates with the themes of generosity and hope. Appropriate for all ages, and parents are encouraged to bring children.Tickets: General Seating $32, Premium Seating $42, Children and Students with valid student ID $12. Sung in English. Approximately 50 minutes long with no intermission." 

Saturday, January 25, 2 p.m.

Artist Talk: count. map. pulse. breathe., Joseph Nease Gallery, 23 W. 1st Street

"A solo exhibition of new work by Kathy McTavish. “A frayed thread”: Whether the split wires of a computer circuit board; a single line of code from a spooling cacophony of code-driven conversation; a thread of cello or wind in a digital fugue; one out of hundreds of layers of digital shapes - scrolling on monitors and through projections (grey, then black, then blue, red, yellow); a circle stitched into fabric and batting and pooled chording; the tied ends of a loom-woven shawl/covering/scroll – this is the metaphor that unites and runs through the body of Kathy McTavish’s multi-layered trans/media installations." On View: through February 29, 2020

Sunday, January 26, 5 p.m.

Beer & Hymns, Sir Benedict's Tavern, 805 E. Superior Street

"A gathering for beer drinking and hymn singing on the last Sunday of every month."

Sunday, January 26, 6 p.m.

Armory Dance Party, The Sports Garden, 425 S. Lake Avenue

"An evening of music and memories to celebrate the ongoing revitalization of the historic Duluth Armory, benefit its Music Resource Center program for teen musicians and relive the energy of that cold night in 1959 when Buddy Holly and his band graced the stage of the Duluth Armory during the ill-fated Winter Dance Party tour.
(EdNote: Read yesterday's blog post to learn more about the significance of Buddy Holly and his visit to the Duluth Armory.)

"Todd Eckart and His Band performs. Other activities: a silent auction, a dance contest and a 50’s costume contest. Doors open at 5 p.m., show at 6. Food and drinks available for purchase. Tickets are $15 online at Eventbrite and are also available at the Electric Fetus or Globe News. $20 at the door."

Monday, January 27, 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Recycle, Repurpose, and Restyle with Mary Mulari, Mount Royal Branch, Duluth Public Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle

"People interested in reusing household textiles and vintage linens, including Grandma’s doilies, are encouraged to attend this event in the Mount Royal Branch Library’s Blue Room. Turn tablecloths, T-shirts, and thrift shop treasures into contemporary heirlooms and useful accessories. Learn Mary’s laundering/whitening tips and how to create gifts with basic sewing skills or fabric glue."

Mondays, January 27-February 24 (no class February 17), 6-8:30 p.m.
z e n t a n g l e (R) Pattern Drawing, with Esther Piszczek, certified z e n t a n g l e (R) teacher, Ordean East Middle School, 2900 East 4th Street
Anyone can create beautiful, intricate line patterns “one stroke at a time” using the Zentangle method of pattern drawing. New patterns will be taught each class as we create beautiful art on 3.5" x 3.5" paper tiles using pen and ink. No previous drawing experience necessary. Relaxation is a common side effect. See www.zentangle.com for more information.

Class Cost: $45; Supply Cost: $20; Register online HERE or contact Julie Gandt, Coordinator, at 218-336-8760 x 1 or email: Julie.Gandt@isd709.org

Wednesday, January 29, 5-7:30 p.m.Save the Show! A Theatrical Escape Room, Mount Royal Branch, Duluth Public Library, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Circle
The Mount Royal Branch Library’s Blue Room is transformed into an escape room for this event. Synopsis: You, dear avid supporter of the arts, won a behind-the-scene ticket to the Royal Mount Theatre Company’s Annual Fundraiser Spectacular! However, when you arrived, no one greets you (strange). No one seems to be in the building at all (very weird). And apparently the entire cast and crew is dramatically trapped in the prop room (triple odd). Can you free the cast and crew before the audience arrives to an empty stage? Can you solve the zany antics of thespians? Can the show actually go on? This event is free!"

Thursday, January 30, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Teacher/Student Art Reception, UW-Superior's Holden Fine Arts Building, Room 2144, Catlin Avenue and 19th Street, Superior
"Students and faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Superior celebrate art teachers and their students with an exhibition that features both sides of the creative classroom." On View: through February 21

Friday, January 31, 5-9 p.m.

Backstage Experience with the Duluth Superior Symphony Orchestra, multiple venues
"This experience provides guests with an exclusive perspective and insight into the creative dynamic between orchestra and conductor. Start out the night with a craft-beer tasting at Hoops Brewing before sitting down for a gourmet dinner at Lake Avenue Restaurant. Then, it’s off to Symphony Hall, where guests can experience a backstage tour during the symphony’s dress rehearsal and an onstage interaction with the musicians and conductor Dirk Meyer. Tickets: $79"

For the Love of Trees, Zeitgeist Arts Cafe, 222 E. Superior Street

View painter and local artist Sue Rauschenfels' solo show as she honors her love of trees through artistic expression. "We have all heard the science as to why trees are life. But beyond that, trees have the power to impact people positively socially and mentally. Trees calm and rejuvenate our senses and refresh our souls in healing ways. I’ve painted a series of trees I hope will stir these senses when viewing." Sue Rauschenfels

The Journey Home--Chapter 2 

AICHO 5:30-7:30 pm, 202 W. 2nd Street, Duluth, MN
Indigenous First Art & Gifts Shop to Host First-Ever Art Opening Indigenous First Art and Gift Shop will host its first-ever art opening featuring Samuel J. Zimmerman's paintings. 
This exhibit is free and open to the public and refreshments will be served. The artist will also be doing a LIVE PAINTING of a traditional shawl dancer. Samuel’s work is created from his inspiration from his Ojibwe heritage, the strength and spirit of traditional jingle dress dancers and shawl dancers and the beauty of Gitchi-Gami. The Journey Home – Chapter 2 will be displayed at Indigenous First Art and Gift Shop through mid-February. 
Visit their Journey Home Facebook Event Page.


November 2019-mid-January 2020

Through Our Eyes: A collaboration with AICHO, various artists, Duluth Public Library, 2nd Floor, Computer Center, 520 W. Superior Street
"The exhibit consists of ten photographs created by Native American youth and is part of the Seven Teachings series representing the Anishinaabe Seven Grandfather Teachings: Wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility, and truth. AICHO hosted a five-day photography and digital storytelling workshop for Native American youth which allowed the kids to access traditional culture through a modern medium, resulting in the vibrant exhibit which is on display through mid-January."

December 18-January 

Dan Edmunds, Blue Cross Blue Shield Duluth Retail Center, 425 West Superior Street

Multi-disciplined local artist Dan Edmunds said, "I have always had a passion for creating, if it’s making pottery, working with wood with my father as a child, or being inspired by my grandmother who was a painter. Recently on my trips to New Mexico, I was inspired by the landscape of the desert. I like the simple division between sky and land that the desert has. This current body of work reflects that simple use of color seen in the desert southwest." 

December 6-February 2
Snow and Ice, Duluth Folk School, 1917 W. Superior Street
"Through painting, photographs, and other media, we will be exploring the world of snow and ice. Art by Jordan Sundberg, Michael Anderson, Alison Aune, Bryan French, LeAnn Oman, and Tara Austin."

December 20- February 9

Tommy Kronquist: Medium Control, Corridor Gallery, Duluth Art Institute, 506 W. Michigan Street"Local artist and business owner Tommy Kronquist began his design career on the winter slopes of Minnesota. Merging his passion for snowboarding with his interest in art, a company was born: Medium Control. Long before designing however, Kronquist joined a competitive winter sports circuit that included traveling with his snowboarding sponsors. Through them he was exposed to a market heavy with design fads. During this time, Kronquist gravitated towards working with sales representatives to present his design work. Eventually, the ebb and flow of multiple seasons brought with it the desire to create timeless designs, work that would be relevant for more than a season, or a year, or even a decade. Kronquist’s work presented in the DAI Corridor Gallery embodies his classic minimal designs." Opening Reception: Thursday, February 6, 5-8 p.m.

January 17-February 21

Metamorphose, Prøve Gallery, 21 N. Lake Avenue

"Local painter Sarah Brokke presents Metamorphose, her exhibition of new paintings that extrude the sacred from dreams and everyday existence."

January 30-February 21 

Teacher/Student Art Exhibit, UW-Superior's Holden Fine Arts Building, Room 2144, Catlin Avenue and 19th Street, Superior

"Students and faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Superior celebrate art teachers and their students with an exhibition that features both sides of the creative classroom." 

December 13-February 29
count. map. pulse. breathe., Joseph Nease Gallery, 23 W. 1st Street
"A solo exhibition of new work by Kathy McTavish. “A frayed thread”: Whether the split wires of a computer circuit board; a single line of code from a spooling cacophony of code-driven conversation; a thread of cello or wind in a digital fugue; one out of hundreds of layers of digital shapes - scrolling on monitors and through projections (grey, then black, then blue, red, yellow); a circle stitched into fabric and batting and pooled chording; the tied ends of a loom-woven shawl/covering/scroll – this is the metaphor that unites and runs through the body of Kathy McTavish’s multi-layered trans/media installations."
Artist Talk: Saturday, January 25, 2020, 2 p.m.

December-March
Laura Andrews & Paula Gudmundson: Integrated Vision, George Morrison Gallery, Duluth Art Institute, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Digital landscapes and meditative harmonies invite viewers to find respite and connect with the surrounding world in Integrated Vision, a collaborative exhibition by Laura Andrews and Paula Gudmundson. Large scale images of nature float on the walls of the Morrison Gallery, documenting the ever-changing state of our environment. Slow, thoughtful music projects a state of fluidity, transcending reality." Opening Reception: Thursday, February 6, 5-8 p.m.

January-March

Shaun Chosa: War Paint, John Steffl Gallery, Duluth Art Institute, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Pulling from popular culture, nature and his Ojibwe heritage, Shaun Chosa creates detailed pen and ink work that is evocative and at times whimsical. In War Paint, Chosa translates his ideas onto large canvas with acrylic, “War Paint is a social commentary on popular culture and its intersection in Indian country. Some blatant, some coded in ways only those people growing up on the Red road would understand." Opening Reception: Thursday, February 6, 5-8 p.m.; Artist Talk: March 17, 5-7 p.m.

January-March

Sharon Dawson, City Hall Mayor's Reception Room, 411 W. 1st Street

"Sharon Dawson’s work invites viewers to investigate with emotion, the forms encouraging viewers to linger and emerge with a connection outside of oneself. Pulling us in with depth, color and texture, the images reflect Dawson’s practice, “While creating art draws the internal world outward, awareness in meditation draws the attention inward”. Applying multiple layers of oil and acrylic before rubbing, scraping and carving into the surface, Dawson’s process becomes meditative. Her movements, visible as strokes on the canvas, promote stillness and harmony."

January-March
Our Neighbors: Exhibiting Artists from BAM, City Hall Rotunda, 411 W. 1st Street
"The Duluth Art Institute hosts the Birkenstein Arts Movement, a year-long program for middle school students based on the art and principles of Jean Birkenstein. Fifteen BAM students joined this movement to focus on growing their art and leadership skills, working towards communicating through drawing, ceramics, painting and mixed media."

Creative Education Class Opportunities in the Twin Ports

Featured Class: 

Sunday, January 26, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Gudbrandsdal Rosemaling with Tara Austin, Duluth Folk School, 1917 W Superior Street
"During this class you will be introduced to the Gudbrandsdal style of rosemaling characterized by twisting and folding leaves of the acanthus plant, a common design ornament. In class we will go over the basic technique and history of this decorative style. We will practice the fundamental painting process using oil paint on paper. All painting materials and basic Gudbrandsdal patterns will be supplied by the instructor. If you have your own rosemaling paints and brushes, you are welcome to bring them along. If not, we’ll have some available. Cost: $45 till 1/12; $55 after 1/12"

Learn a Tangle! 

Jobowtie, created by YuRu Chen, is a lovely grid tangle with many options for creative variation. Click the link to learn how to draw this tangle line-by-line. Add some simple shading or a touch of color and use it to decorate envelopes, birthday cards, and bills. You can learn how to draw this tangle and many more on Linda Farmer's, CZT, blog at tanglepatterns.com.

Book & Film

Patterned Peace, by Esther Piszczek, CZT, published by Whole Person Associates, Duluth. Available on Amazon.com 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 at YouTube.com.



Places to find Ed's art in the Twin Ports"
Goin Postal, 816 Tower Avenue, Superior
Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior

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

For more about Esther, see Brian Barber's piece at Perfect Duluth Day: Perfect Duluth Day Selective Focus: Esther Piszczek

Zenith News, E.P. Designs, is a semi-regular Zentangle (R) inspired art feature that appeared in this newspaper and is now available online.

TO RECEIVE Ennyman's Territory blog posts in your Inbox, TYPE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS into the Feedburner slot near the top right of this blog posts, then Confirm via email.
Connect with Esther on Facebook and stay updated on her classes/events, HERE!

Thank you to Esther Piszczek, Perfect Duluth Day, and all others who contribute to these listings possible.

Art In November: The Season Is At Hand

OK, kids. It's November and the variety of things happening continues to expand. Thank you to Esther Piszczek for assembling all these events and activities. For the record, this is hardly comprehensive, and no longer just visual arts. There are numerous art galleries with local artists' work that is on continual display, and public spaces as well, such as Red Mug, Wussow's, Pizza Luce and the like. As the holidays approach it's a good time to make time for checking things out.

From tomorrow through New Years there are arts and crafts fairs every weekend. I know this because a friend told me he and his wife have events scheduled for every weekend till the end of the year. And I believe he said that they will be at separate events part of the time. In short, there is a lot going on.

Book signings, comedy events, music events, theatrical performances and other kinds of activities may be inadequately catalogued but if you work you'll find a lot through various sources like the DNT Best Bets page and the Reader. If you have other recommendations feel free to let me know.

ALSO, I am going to be dropping my AdWords in order to make space for local advertisers at reasonable rates. If you wish to sponsor this blog for a month, or be featured in a blog post, great! And as we think about holiday giving, buy local as much as you can and give as much as you can. (By this I mean that there are over 300 local non-profit organizations doing good work in our community. Maybe this is the year you step it up a notch?)

AND NOW... Drumroll Please.

Mondays, December 2 and 9, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Zentangle (R) Pattern Drawing Meets Origami: Tangled and Folded with Esther Piszczek, certified z e n t a n g l e teacher, Lincoln Park Community School, 3215 West Third Street 

In the first class, you will draw patterns on a 3.5" square paper tile using pen, ink, and pencil shading. Esther will then use basic graphic design to turn your tile into a seamless repeat and print it creating your very own custom origami paper. In the second class, you will fold the paper into pretty origami flowers or stars and create lovely, unique origami ornaments. Class Limit: 10; Class Cost: $40; Supply cost: $5; Register online HERE or contact Erin Bates, Coordinator, at 218-336-8760 x 5 or email: erin.bates@isd709.org

Details on all of these events, and more, below!

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All events, including Esther's classes, are listed in chronological order. Click on colored text throughout to link to more information. Visit the Creative Education Opportunities page to find classes to explore and the Reoccurring Events page for events that happen routinely.

Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m.-2 pm.

Duluth Woman's Club Bazaar 2019, DWC Hartman House, 2400 E. Superior St.
"This seasonal event features Duluth Woman’s Club-member created gifts, original paintings, felted scarves and ornaments, book pillows, reusable gift bags and hot dish carriers, knitted items, framed jewelry art, baked goods and more. Fresh scones and coffee available."

Saturday, November 2, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Holy Rosary Craft Show, Stella Maris Academy, 2802 E. 4th Street
"50+ local vendors showcasing jewelry, art, sewn creations, homemade canned goods, syrup, and other types of handmade goodness. We will also feature a few direct sales people as well including part lite, pampered chef, creative memories, tastefully simple and more. Lunch available for purchase too."

My novel took 20 years. FWIW

Saturday, November 2, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

I Wrote a Novel in a Month – And So Can You, Duluth Public Library, Gold Room, 520 W. Superior Street
"As part of National Novel Writing Month, Duluth writer/director/producer/performer Brian Matuszak talks about his experience writing a novel in a month and invites attendees to break off into groups to talk about their plans, progress and stories. Those groups will be encouraged to stay connected throughout the month before meeting at the library again Dec. 3 to share their progress and learn about the long haul of editing."

Saturday, November 2, 5 p.m.

"Alien" . Ink on 1939 London Times.

Duluth Art Institute's Masquerade Gala, Duluth Depot Hall,
"The event celebrates contemporary art, artists and the community, and features an aerialist performance, a 3-course sit-down meal from Duluth Grill, a silent auction of items inspired by the neighborhoods and communities the Duluth Art Institute serves, a live auction, and a drag performance at the conclusion of the evening.

"Each gala attendee will go home with art made by a table host. This year’s hosts are Cheng-Khee Chee, Claudia Faith, Darren Houser, Kristen Kaas, Karen Keenan, Lenore Lampi, Adam McCauley, Juliet McLellan, Chris Monroe, Rita Morris & Barry Sands, Karen Nease, Ed Newman, Ann Price, Robb Quisling, Tom Rauschenfels and John Ulrich."

Schedule
5 to 6:30 p.m. – Cocktail Hour with Aerialist Show
6:30 p.m. – Dinner and Auction
9 p.m. – Drag Show

Tickets are $100 and can be purchased online or by calling our 218-733-7560.

Saturday, November 2, 7:30-9 p.m.
UWS Ragtime Recital with Jeff Madison and Alex Sandor, UWS Holden Fine Arts Building, 1805 Catlin Avenue, Superior
"Singer Jeffrey Madison and pianist Alexander Sandor will present a delightful evening of Fats Waller tunes, as well as some examples of 'classical' music that was influenced by music from the ragtime era." Tickets: Adults: $12; Seniors: $10; Students: $10

Saturday, November 2, 7:30-9:30 p.m.
Treasures Along the North Shore: A Belly Dance Show, Teatro Zuccone, 222 E. Superior Street"Join us as many talented local and regional solo and group performers present a variety of styles of belly dance from oriental to tribal to fusion making this a wonderfully treasure filled evening of diverse, unique, and fun entertainment! Tickets: $15 Adults; $12 Students & Seniors; $6 Children ages 4-11 available at the Teatro Zuccone box office."

Monday, November 4, 5-7 p.m.

Art Opening: Umbra, Zeitgeist Arts Atrium, 222 E. Superior Street
"This solo exhibition by Terresa Moses, Umbra, centers the intersectional experiences of Black womxn.* Inspired by her own experiences and the experiences of other Black womxn in the Duluth area, Moses was compelled to create work which validates and uncovers the institutional racism and sexism perpetuated in this community everyday. 

"Each piece delves into six themes which Moses has identified as gaze, control, savior, (d)anger, burden, and liberation. It is her hope that all individuals come to realize their contribution to these experiences– either as a perpetrator of harm or a healer. *Indigenous womxn and womxn of color may experience some, if not, all of the themes conceptualized in this exhibition." [NOTE: Cocktails & Conversation featuring black womxn artists immediately follows this event in the Zeitgeist Arts Cafe. See details below.]

Painting by Moira Villiard

Monday, November 4, 7-8 p.m.
Cocktails & Conversation: Black Womxn Artists, Zeitgeist Arts Cafe, 222 E. Superior Street
"Moderated by Sandra Oyinloye; local artists Terresa Moses, Kym E. Young, and Carla Hamilton will have a conversation about their work, perspectives, and experiences.

"This is a free event, and seats will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. The event will immediately follow the opening reception of ‘Umbra’ an art exhibit by Terresa Moses. This solo exhibition centers around the intersectional experiences of Black womxn, and we encourage participants to attend the reception before Cocktails & Conversation!

"Zeitgeist's Year of the Womxn is a 12-month series of programming throughout 2019 that highlights women’s stories, perspectives and experiences while showcasing that women can, and do, hold positions of power, leadership, and influence across our community. To learn more, and to view a full listing of their events visit: https://zeitgeistarts.com/yotw/."

Mondays, November 4, 11, 18, 25, 5:30 p.m.

Mapped Life Series. Kentucky.
Acrylic on Rand McNally Map

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, November 5, 12, 19, 26, 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).

Thursday, November 7, 5-8 p.m.
Roundabout Art Tour, Seven venues in North Carlton County. Carlton is thick with creative people and having watched the development of the Twin Ports arts scene in recent years, retired art teach Kris Nelson (The Chair Artist) has corralled seven venues for what is being called a Roundabout Art Tour. The venues include
Visit one or visit all seven roundabout locations between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7: the Pine Knot News office, Encore! Performing Arts Center and Gallery, Gateway Goods, The Historic Scott House, Dragon Fire Ceramics, Oldenburg House and the Fond du Lac Cultural Center and Museum. If you are NOT familiar with all these venues, Thursday will be a great time to BEGIN to get acquainted with what's happening in the arts in Cloquet, Carlton & vicinity. The Encore Theater is always looking for new artists to show their work (and you get a Free ticket to a show.) Contact Kris Nelson to get added to her mailing list (in the event I fail to get the word out for the various calls for art.) Oldenburg House and Scott House have a LOT of happening events. Expand you world. All these places are just down the road a piece. If you have kids, both these historic homes make fabulous wedding venues.

Enough said. Roundabout map is at the end of the page. Click to enlarge or download.
Thursday, November 7, 6-8:30 p.m.
Yoga and Writing Workshop, It Takes A Village Healing Collective, 114 W. Superior Street, 2nd Floor (Above Duluth Sign and Stewart Taylor Printing)

"This donation-based yoga practice and guided free-form writing workshop is generally held on the first Thursday of every month. It is intended to be an opportunity to slow down in order to reflect and reconnect through the use of yoga and prompted journal writing. Each month will have a different theme, with the goal of building self-awareness and appreciation.

"Materials will be provided, but attendees are asked to bring a journal (if they have one) and anything else desired for their comfort. This workshop is taught by Alyssa Johnson, RYT500. E-mail alyssa@blindspotcreatives.com with questions."

Friday, November 8, 5-8 p.m.
Closing Reception: Swedish Folk Painting: Revival in the Upper Midwest, Nordic Center, 23 Lake Avenue
"This exhibition will feature contemporary Swedish folk paintings by Judith Kjenstad, Pieper Fleck Bloomquist and Alison Aune.  These three artists have studied, and transformed, traditional Swedish dalmålningar from Dalarna, with its characteristic floral kurbits (fantastical gourd flowers), and decorative-figurative bonadsmåleri from the southern provinces of Småland and Halland into contemporary paintings.  Each artist will exhibit their paintings in the content of traditional Swedish folk painting and its recent revival in the Upper Midwest. $5 Suggested Donation." Viewing Hours: Fridays, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday and Sundays, 1-4 p.m.

Friday, November 8, 7:30 p.m.
Opera Studio: Love Scenes, UMD's Weber Music Hall, 1151 University Drive
"Opera Studio presents Love Scenes, with guests artists Marcus McConico, Jeffrey Madison and Ryan Deignan directing or performing alongside students in scenes from Pirates of Penzance, Hansel and Gretel, The Magic Flute, Carmen and others. Each scene will showcase a different aspect of love, including deceptive, unrequited, brotherly, infatuated, forbidden, first, and Godly love." Tickets: Adult $15; Senior/Veteran $10; UMD Faculty/Staff $8; Student $8; UMD Student - Free

Saturday, November 9, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
Coppertop Craft and Bake Sale, United Methodist Church, 230 E Skyline Parkway
"Featuring: Over 50 talented, local Crafters; Bakery & Gourmet Foods; Used Book Sale
Nam Lee’s famous Egg Rolls.

9:00 a.m. Warm Cinnamon Rolls & Paul’s Homemade Scones

11:00 a.m. Sloppy Joe Lunch

"Sponsored by First United Methodist Women; Proceeds to organizations that help women and children. Additional parking in MN-DOT lot with shuttle service provided."

Saturday, November 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Get Great Stuff Local Art & Gift Fair, Duluth Congregational Church, 3833 E. Superior Street

"It's the season and this event is a great place to pick up locally-made items right from the people who make them."

Saturday, November 9, 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." Guest Artists: Shari Johnson - headwraps, finger-less mitts, and other warm gear; Lynne Sather - fabric creations!

Saturday, November 9, 5-9 p.m.

Duluth All Souls Night, Duluth Depot's Great Hall, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Duluth's annual fall multicultural evening festival of interactive arts observing grief and the change of season with displays, ceremony, spectacle, funeral march, and fire. We are about honoring our ancestors, feeling our losses, naming societal ills (rotten ideas) that need to die, imagining and manifesting a better world. An incredible lineup of performers as usual, hope to see you there!!!"

Schedule of Events
5:00 Great Hall Displays accompanied by Richie Townsend, joined by Bella Yaga 

5:30 Train Museum: short tarot readings available w/ Dr. Crow Jon, Roadraven Bohemian Tarot & Bone and others, face painting

6:00 Great Hall welcome/ceremony, Jillian Forte (w/ Minneapolis folk) Bella Yaga ritual music and spectacle, introducing Daniel Polnau as Strombolli

7:00 Funeral March for Rotten Ideas around Downtown Library with Duluth's own brass band, Thomas Boys Back Home and Barebones stilters/puppeteers; Spiral Dance and reading/burning of society fails

7:30 Spin Collective Fire Dancers and drumming Renan Cruz model Guatemalan kite burning

8:00 Great Hall after party raising Maximus, giant skeleton marionette created by artists Chris Lutter, Mary Plaster and friends with more tunes by Thomas Boys Back Home

Saturday, November 9, 6-8 p.m.
A Goody Night, Teatro Zuccone, Zeitgeist Arts, 222 E. Superior Street

"A Goody Night is an artistic storytelling experience that aims to create a platform for people of diverse backgrounds to better connect within the community. A Goody Night seeks to establish meaningful connections among artists in cities across the country, through storytelling events that are coordinated at designated times and venues. We believe we can enhance and inspire our communities by focusing on the more objective meaning Inherent in the artists’ work, giving all the glory to God. Mediums such as music, painting, film, etc. are strategically combined in order to achieve our goals."

Musical & Visual Guests: "Annie Humphrey", "Di Jay", & "Flo Matamoros"

6:00 p.m. – Open Mic Sign Up
6:15 p.m. – Open Mic
7:00 p.m. – Event Begins

Sunday, November 10, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Demo: Psyanky, Duluth Folk School, 1917 W. Superior Street
"Duluth Folk School instructor Theresa Hornstein will be demonstrating Ukrainian egg decorating (pysanky)! Swing by to watch this ancient craft being done right before your eyes!" [NOTE: Hornstein is teaching a Ukrainian-Style Egg Decorating Class for Christmas on November 25, 6-9 p.m. Register Here!]

Sunday, November 10, 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. Cost: $5 at the door." Listen to previous Gag Me With A Spoon podcasts.
[NOTE: this is the last Gag Me With A Spoon event for 2019 and the last in this format. Gag Me With A Spoon will return in 2020 with two story telling event competitions. More details to come!]

Wednesday, November 13, 6:30-9:00 p.m.

Zentangle (R) & Wine with Esther Piszczek, CZT, 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.You can read about one student's experience here: Local Art Seen: First Lesson in Zentangle with Esther Piszczek, at Ennyman's Territory, August 18, 2019.

Thursday, November 14, 3:30-5 p.m.
Custom Leather Bracelet Workshop, Duluth Public Library, Mount Royal Branch, Blue Room, 105 Mount Royal Shopping Center
"Create your own custom leather bracelet! Join Minnesota artist Jen Anfinson for an introduction to leatherwork in jewelry making. Learn about leather tools and techniques and create something unique! All materials will be provided. Program for ages 13 and up. Paid for in part by the Minnesota Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund. Event Type(s): Arts & Crafts
Age Group(s): Tweens, Teen, Adults, Seniors"

Thursday, November 14, 6:30 p.m.
CHOICE, unlimited's Evening of the Arts, Lincoln Park Middle School, 
"CHOICE, unlimited hosts its ninth annual Evening of the Arts, featuring more than 80 artists performing and presenting original music, poetry, art, dance and film." Tickets: $5

Friday, November 15, 6-8 p.m.
Jazz@DFP, Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street
A night of jazz surrounded by pianos and the Zentangle (R) inspired artwork of Esther Piszczek, CZT. ($10 suggested donation to pay the musicians) I would love to see you at this event!
Musicians: Ryan Frane, Piano, Matt Mobley, Bass, Jennifer Parker, Vocalist

Friday, November 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Community Felt Rug Making Design Class with Mary Reichert, Duluth Folk School, 1917 W. Superior Street
"Felt rug making is an art of storytelling. This class is a continuation of the first 3 days in October and is when the design and hard work really begins to come together! We will be laying out the base layers, lightly felting them, and then adding our design on top of this base in preparation for the community felt making event the following day." Cost: $25; Register HERE. A bit about felt artist Mary Reichert.

Saturday-Sunday, November 16-17, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Community Felt Rug Making Design Class with Mary Reichert, Duluth Folk School, 1917 W. Superior Street
"The art of felt rug making has a long history of bringing people together and this event is inspired from the felt rug making traditions of Kyrgyzstan. The rug will begin about 8' by 10' with the design ready to go and together we will add soapy water and start walking on the rug with our bare feet. Over the course of two days, along with the help of live music, we will walk, stomp, sing, kick and roll the wool into a strong felt rug that will be a gift for the Duluth Public Library. All hands and feet welcome! You can drop by for 10 minutes or stay all day. No experience necessary. "

Saturday, November 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
A Very Merry Craft and Vendor Holiday Show, Edgewood Vista, 4195 Westberg Road
"A Very Merry Craft and Vendor Holiday Show is coordinated by Kathleen Wicklund of the Katz Meow Shows. There will be 25 vendors and 33 tables of mostly handmade items and a few direct sellers. Proceeds from the vendor fees will be going to the Alzheimer’s Association."

Sunday, November 17, 1-3 p.m.
SunFUNday! Art for Children of All Ages: Pepperkakebyen Prints ~ Gingerbread Greeting Cards & Wrapping Paper, The Nordic Center, 23 N. Lake Avenue

"Join art professor Alison Aune, her UMD art education students, and special guests. Pre-Registration is encouraged! Admission: $5 suggested donation; Contact: Alison Aune, aaune@d.umn.edu, with questions and pre-registration information.

Sunday, November 17, 2:30 p.m.

Victory Chorus: Button Up Your Overcoat, Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 835 W. College Street 

"The Victory Chorus, which is focused on uniting people living with dementia and community members to create joy through song, welcomes the community to their winter concert. The music of the Victory Chorus will be performed by people living with dementia singing alongside volunteer singers and features the Twin Ports Tenors and Frank Garcia as guest musicians. Free parking available. Questions: Contact Mimi Stender at mstender@thevictoryfund.org."

CLICK TO ENLARGE