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5.6. SR 07-15-2002ELK RIVER ALLIANCE Item 5.6. 400 Jackson Avenue · Suite205 · Elk River, MN · 55330 · Ph. 763.441.4725 · Fax: 763.441.4725 · elkriverart@sherbtel.net July 10, 2002 Elk River City Council Mr. Pat Klaers, City Administrator 13065 Orono Road Elk River, Minnesota 55330 Dear Mayor Klinzing, Council Members and Mr. Klaers: As you know, the Elk River Area Arts Council and the 2001 Arts Alliance combined forces this year to create the Elk River Area Arts Alliance. Together we are a larger, stronger organization with a broader scope and mission in service to the community of Elk River. We want to thank the City of Elk River for its ongoing support of the efforts of both organizations. We appreciate that City leaders recognize the arts are an essential part of our community's identity and economic vitality. In the past, the City contributed $5000 annually to the Arts Council in large part for its presence as an arts resource, for the Arts in Harmony national art exhibit and the Strings for Youth program. In addition the City has supported Elk River's community festival, ArtSoup, which was sponsored by the 2001 Arts Alliance. We request that the City of Elk River continue its support of the Elk River Area Arts Alliance by donating $10,000 annually to our new organization to cover its services to Elk River. These services include continuation and expansion of the Strings for Youth program, the Arts in Harmony and other arts exhibits held year round, our bi-monthly publication The Eddy, the Arts Alliance website, our new concert series, inter-generational motorcoach art trips, writers workshops, visual arts workshops, Artists Gatherings, and the ArtSoup Elk River Community Festival. Our programming has provided valuable resources to area residents and is drawing increasing awareness throughout the region of the vitality of the cultural life our community enjoys. Our budget this fiscal year is expected to be close to $120,000 with the large majority of those funds used for programming and the ArtSoup community festival. The lion's share of our funding comes from local donations, memberships, and grants. In our presentation Monday night, we plan to demonstrate how the Arts Alliance has grown as an important community resource. For example, with the new availability of performance space at the Elk River High School, the Arts Alliance is now collaborating with local arts groups and regional resources to offer exciting concerts and professional theatre experiences for our community. The positive economic impact of such events for Elk River is important in itself. The Arts Alliance is also continuing to work towards establishing our Family & Arts Center with a large community gathering space in Elk River. Our organization's goals are based on a strong commitment to community development: enriching the Elk River region through the arts. We look forward to telling you about our work and to sharing our vision to help make Elk River great. Sincerely, Elk River Area Arts Alliance Sharon Tracy, Executive Director Tony Darkenwald, Treasurer Fearfo futu alar artsworld r re ms Leaders: patrons seek ways to divvY up fe e d ll S'f0r larger po°l BY 'CYNTHIA BOYD St. Patti have cut Spen~g onthe ever ~tate of~e ,Arts .ga.thel~g~ Pioneer Press arts. Gov. Jesse Ven~a r~C~tly in Hopkins to try to g~ ~eau o,~ vetoed bondingd°iiargf0r:§eV~r' these trends~and to'fi~e our In a state that boasts more al arts organizationS~ inclU~g ~ways to work together more artists than its: famed: 10,000: the Guthrie Theater. :i::? effectively. IncreaSed cooperation lakes, where arts budgets hit $1.3 And there is a looming sti'ug- ~ and collaboration, they conclud- billion a year and 92 percent of gle between center~ciW and ~ub- ~ ed, would be essential if the Minnesotans believe art is cpu-' urban arts organizations for a state's arts organizations are to cial to quality of life, there's trou-, finite pot of money, continue to groTM and thrive. ble brewing. ~.~I:~ : More than 200 local arts lead- "We cannot be complacent. Corporate philanthropic i SUp:; ' ers and Patrons came together port is slipping. Minneapolis and Wednesday at Minnesota's first~ FUTURE OF THE ARTS~ fib WWW.TWINCITIES.COM · ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS FROM pAGE lB Future of the arts (continued) We find ourselves in a .para- dox,'' said Rip Rapson presi- dent of the McKnight Founda- tion, Minnesota's largest private arts benefactor. ?On one hand, we are bustling with activity from every vantage point. On the other hand ... there is a serious lack of appreciation for what it takes to keep the arts an active and engaging force in the lives of all Minnesotans. "'Few are clearer than our governor about .their belief that there is no difference between a tractor pull and a dance recital." The meeting was an oppor- tunity for arts groups to dis- cuss everything from Carolyn Bye's recent study, '~ New Angle: Arts Development in the Suburbs," to budget cuts. The Bye report documer' the proliferation of arts orgm_ izations in suburban cities that are home to 2 million peo- ple and raises questions about funding inequities, growth patterns and future atte~ dance at center city Yenues. "No one doesn't want arts · to flourish, whether in urban or suburban or rural areas," Bye said. "People want art and they want it close to home." Several attendees lamented what they see as the low prior- ity placed on arts and culture by public officials. "When Minnesota opinion leaders and decision makers are thinking about our future, they're not thinking about the arts. The arts simply aren't on their radar screen," Rapson said. But, he added, the arts should be a priority for a vari- ety of reasons: · The combined annual budgets of arts organizations in Minnesota is $1.3 billion, 30 percent higher than when the 'foundation last gauged the arts' economic impact in 1995. · 95 percent of Min- nesotans said arts are either essential or important te their children's education, accord- ing to a recent University of Minnesota survey. · Minnesota has more than 30,000 individual artists, yet more than 60 percent of them earn less than $7,000 a year from their art. Art telis others who we are, and differentiates one commu- nity from others, said Caren Dewar, deputy regional admin- istrator for the Metropolitan Council. But she expressed STATE OF THE ARTS · Minnesota has more than 30,000 individual artists. · 60 percent of the state%~ 1,268 nonprofit arts. organizations are o~utside the metro area. · Arts organizations spend more than $358 million a year. · In 1998, more people visited the state's five largest museums than attended professional sports events. · Five of the state's top 25 tourist attractions are arts institutions. Source: The McKnight Foundation concern about the lack regional perspective in arts developmenL Not all was doom and gloom at the gathering. A attendees offered examples recent successes. Bob Erickson, LakeviI)e city manager and a drivir~,g force behind the establish- ment of the Lakeville Area Arts Center, talked of a p~- vate-public arts partnership including schools and city gov- ernment. Lakeville's center opened last year just 29 months after a feasibility study. The Friends of the Lakevifle Area Arts Center raised more than $226,500 .in their first nine months. Vadnais Heights City Coun- cil Member Christine Alexan- der described a successful pub- lic art program that brought stained glass and silk art into the new City Hall to reflect citi- zens' love of nature. At first, residents took some convin~c- ing of the need for such ~.; now they show off their City Hall, she said. Jaci Guglielmi, from t~ Mounds View Community Theatre, summed up the day's theme: "Unless 'people in power see the arts community as a united voice, we'll be ~nothing-other than a bother- some gnat." Cynthia Boyd can be reached at cboyd@pioneerpress.com or (651) 228-2116. ELK RIVER ,~LLIANCE 400JacksonAvenue · Suite 205 · Elk River,/fin · 55330 · Ph. 763.441.4725 · Fax: 763.441.4725 · elkriverart@sherbtel.net July 10,2002 Elk River City Council Mr. Pat Klaers, City Administrator 13065 Orono Road Elk River, Minnesota 55330 Dear Mayor Klinzing, Council Members and Mr. Klae~s: As you know, the Elk River Area Arts Council and the 2001 Arts Alliance combined forces this year to create the Elk River Area Arts Alliance. Together we are a larger, stronger organization with a broader scope and mission in service to the community of Elk River. We want to thank the City of Elk River for its ongoing support of the efforts of both organizations. We appreciate that City leaders recognize the arts are an essential part of our community's identity and economic vitality. In the past, the City contributed $5000 annually to the Arts Council in large part for its presence as an arts resource, for the Arts in Harmony national art exhibit and the Strings for Youth program. In addition the City has supported Elk River's community festival, ArtSoup, which was sponsored by the 2001 Arts Alliance. We request that the City of Elk River continue its support of the Elk River Area Arts Alliance by donating $10,000 annually to our new organization to cover its services to Elk River. These services include continuation and expansion of the Strings for Youth program, the Arts in Harmony and other arts exhibits held year round, our bi-monthly publication The Eddy, the Arts Alliance website, our new concert series, inter-generational motorcoach art trips, writers workshops, visual arts workshops, Artists Gatherings, and the ArtSoup Elk River Community Festival. Our proglamming has provided valuable resources to area residents and is drawing increasing awareness throughout the region of the vitality of the cultural life our community enjoys. Our budget this fiscal year is expected to be close to $120,000 with the large majority of those funds used for programming and the ArtSoup community festival. The lion's share of our funding comes fi.om local donations, memberships, and grants. In our presentation Monday night, we plan to demonstrate how the Arts Alliance has grown as an important community resource. For example, with the new availability of performance space at the Elk River High School, the Arts Alliance is now collaborating with local arts groups and regional resources to offer exciting concerts and professional theatre experiences for our community. The positive economic impact of such events for Elk River is important in itself. The Arts Alliance is also continuing to work towards establishing our Family & Arts Center with a large community gathering space in Elk River. Our organization's goals are based on a strong commitment to community development: enriching the Elk River region through the arts. We look forward to telling you about our work and to sharing our vision to help make Elk River great. Sincerely, Elk River Area Arts Alliance Sharon Tracy, Executive Director Tony Darkenwald, Treasurer ELK RIVER ,4LLIANCE 400 Jackson Avenue · Suite205 · Elk River, MN · 55330 · Ph. 763.441.4725 · Fax: 763.441.4725 · elkriverart@sherbtel.net Elk River Area Arts Alliance Mission Statement Recognizing that the arts are essential to the quality of life and health of our community, we promote an environment which offers quality arts education, arts experiences, artist support, and appropriate facilities for arts expression. The Elk River Area Arts Alliance has developed practical and vibrant collaborations. Local organizations: Elk River Community Recreation ISD 728 Community Education Arts Magnet Program, Elk River Area Senior High School Sherburne County Historical Society River's Edge Downtown Business Association Operation ER Volunteer Bridge Three Rivers Community Theatre Community Band and Choir Central Lutheran Church United Methodist Church Allina Medical Clinic Salina SPA and Salon Creative Genius The Schroeder Studio Regional and State organizations: Central Minnesota Arts Board Princeton Performing Arts Center Visual Arts Minnesota, St. Cloud Myles Reif Center, Grand Rapids Edina Art Center Paramount Theatre, St. Cloud Together we provide community wide services that truly enrich the quality of life in Elk River. ArtSoup Community Arts Festival Strings for Youth The Eddy Arts in Harmony (national show) and year-round exhibits (local and state-wide artists) at the Sherburn¢ County Government Center Fiddling Contest (state-wide) Artist Gatherings (open to everyone) Workshops in writing and painting Professional art career development workshops Arts Explorations Motor Coach bus trips 9/11 Fundraising Program--Uncle Sam's Review Professional Concert Series (new for 2002-03) These programs and collaborations have put us in the role of "Elk River Art Am- bassadors.'' Our efforts have-along with those of many others-enhanced Elk River's reputation, and have brought additional good will to the area. Our pro- grams have represented Elk River's cultural vitality to other communities throughout the region and brought individuals, families, and business to town. The Elk River Area Arts Alliance presents: Diverse Artistic Interpretations of a Single Subject / What's the Difference? Diverse Artistic Interpretations of a Single Subject Sportsore& by the Elk River Area Arts AlBartce 400 Jacksort Avenue · Elk R4ver, MN 55330 763-441-4725 e-ma~]: e]krlverar t @ sllerbtel .net webslte: www.elkr~verart.org ELK RIVER AREA ARTS ALLIANCE Our Mission: "Recognizing that the arts are essential to the c[ua[ity of life and health of our community, we promote an am environment which offers quality arts education, arts experiences, artist support and appropriate facilities for arts expression." ERAA Board of Directors: Executive Director: ................................................. Sharon Tracy President ................................................................ Isobel Stander Vice-President: ............................................................. Carl Rock Secretary: .............................................................. Nancy Gongo11 Treasurer: .......................................................... Tony Darkenwa] cl Directors: ................................................................ Sara Hartrrtan Pat Hasslen Jean Loy-Swanson Cli~t:orct Lunclberg David Raymond. This activity is made possible by a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts Board, through funding provided by the Minnesota State Legislature. Welcome... Quite simply, the "What's the Difference?" exhibit will humbly, playfully illustrate to you the creative process of hventy-eight interdisciplinary antists and consequently, honor the potency of their individuality. Ranging geographically from Minneapolis to Saitit Cloud and selected from a wide variety of media, techniques and styles, our artists have created one work of ar~ each, specifically for this show. All of their works have been based on the same black and white photograph which was provided to them in September, 2001. Each were asked to loosely base their piece on its image, given six months to complete their work. This project is designed to demonstrate to you how these art/sfs "see" the same thing differently and how they use their chosen medium to express that unique perspective. In turn, you will discover "the difference': · ··enjoy your journey you wh t ma ]ine dg ot c e te wh t -George Bernard Shaw Acknowledgements Participating Artists Funding: The Central Hinnesota Arts Board Local Business Support: Salina Spa and Salon, Cindy & Les Sanborn, owners Coborn's Superstore, Elk River Elk River Northbound Liquor Flowers Plus of Elk River We Gratefully Acknowledge Creative Direction from: Dave Beauvais, Chad Br/ggs, Tony Darkenwald, Tami Duke, Nancy Gongoll, Paige LaDue Henry, Ken Kurlta (Videon ?roduct~on), Rana NestTud, Gene O[son, Glenn Qulst, Sharon Tracy, and Judy Westergard. Photo Models: Tami Duke, Amy Pence/daughter Rachel. Mae Spencer/son Wayne and grandson Brian, Julian Opificius/son Alex, Terry Brlggs/ daughters Chloe and Ashley, folks at the Annanda[e Fiddler's Contest, three generations of the Koenig family of Dayton, Mn. Graphic Design: Glenn Quis~ The Mounties (Exhibit Facilitators): Karen Aamodt, Tony Darkenwald, Nancy Gongoll, Sara Hartman, Cari Rock, and Casey Wes~ra. Technical Support: Rona Haus, Hugh lacobson CScie.ce Cliff Lundberg, A~to~ney. Mar), Jo Bartos, Minnetonka Barbara Biornson, New Brighton Miranda B]azevic-Krietzman, Minneapolis Ann Marie Ethen, Royalton Onna] ee Graham, Minneapolis Kevin Graves, Saint Cloud Laurel Gregorian, Rosevi[le lames Gross, Kimball Sara Hartman, Elk River Renu Haus, Saint Michael Susan Hendershot, Saint Cloud Paige LaDue Henry, Saint Cloud Gen Jansen, Saint Cloud Karen Kiefer, Zimmerman Marger~ Marturano, Corcoran ]eri Olson-McCoy, Saint Cloud Jean Paschke, Melrose Glenn Qulst, Elk River Cari Rock, Elk River Harvey Schroeder, Elk River David Sebberson, Saint Cloud Mae Spencer, Monffcello Isobel Stander, Monticello Melissa Stephens, Minneapolis Holly Stone, Minneapolis Trish Toro, Minneapolis l.dy Westergard, Minneap0lis Randy Winkler, White Bear Lake Acrylic Pastel Literatu re/Oil Graphite Watercolor Stained Glass Acrylic Metal Oil Music/Lyrics Graphite Mixed Media Wood Carving Oil Oil Weaving Literature Acrylic Clay Oil Oil on Wood Panel Clay Clay Monoprint Mixed Media Oil Pastel Oral Interpretation What's the Difference? Venues and Show Dates Premiere Showing Salina Spa and Salon 19262 Freeport Street (corner of F~eeport St. ~ lackson Ave.) Elk Park Center, Elk River 763-241-9604 Opening Reception: March 30, 7 to 9pm Myles Relf Center for the Performing Arts Lol~l~y 720 Conifer Drive (Off Highway 38, next to Grand Rapids High School) Grand Rapids 218-327-5780 "The Relf Arts Council, located in Grand Rapids, MN, is dedicated to "sffmula~ng arts in Northern Minnesota". The Rel] Center is a premiere preseni~ng faci[i~y, offering great performances, an acclaimed reglona[ art gallery, and an exceptional dance program in state-of-the-art dance s~dios: Opening Reception: May 3, 5:30 to 7pm Etllna Art Center 4701 West 64th Street (near Highway 100 and 62) Edlna 612-915-6600 "The Edina Art Center has creative visual and media arts experiences for all ages and abilities. There are classes, workshops, and exhibitions in palnt~ng, pottery, drawing, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and computer arts." Opening Reception: July 11, 5 - 8pm Paramount TheaEre Lol~t~y 913 West Saint Germaln Street Saint Cloud 320-257-3112 "The mission of the Paramount Arts District is fo create a downtown arts district, including the historic Paramount Theatre, in order to promote the culture and economic development of the Saint Cloud area. Its purpose is to provide opporFunitles for artls~ic production, creative exploration, arts education and the enjoyment of the arts for everyone in Central Minnesota" Opening Reception: September 5, 7 - 9pm For venue directions, please contact the Elk River Area Arts Alliance at 763-441-4725 or e-mail elkriverart@sherbfeLnet Program Notes The concept of this project began with a nerd-like desire to explore how the evolution of an artist's technique and st~le was revealing of their personali~ and life experiences. SclenSfic, it was. Down,Sbt clean. Reduce the variab[es...isolate the subject. What remains? An elementary quesHon: What's the difference? Yet, in truth, this otherwise clinical experiment has yielded a subtle, but undeniable synergy. The afflsts who have commiffed to this gentle challenge have, momentarily, allowed themselves to be themselves, among themselves. One artist actually classified their participation in the show as being 'fun". Preffy bold statemenL if you ask me. Ironlca[[y, with all artists working independently from one another, an unanticipated "peer challenge" emerged which inadvertently pressured them into creating their finest work possible despite the assurance that there were to be no judges. Having the luxury of wlfnessing their works in progress, one studio at a time, the genuine delight in my face must certainly have revealed to them the rea[ story...that our Fublic is in for a wonderfully rare experience. Could our visual artists allow themselves to "defer" to suggestion (the subject photo), llke actors to a script, dancers to a composition, musicians to a meFronome? Visual artists revel in their autonomy...and right[)/so. Could our writers, actor and musician be willing and capable of developing their works based on a vague photo image? The answer? Well, the term "flying colors" comes to mind. You...our neighbors, our frlends, our colleagues...wil[ gather insight as these i~ventz-eight extraordinarily creative individuals gently let their hair down. The keen observer will detect within their artwork the very essence of each of them. Nothing shiny, nothing amplified, the "What's the Difference./' exhibit will give to the viewer the freedom to breathe with the rest of us, without prejudice or pretense. Karen Kiefer WTD Project Director A Bimonthly PuM]cation of the Elk River Area July-August 2002 Edition Number 40 Family & Arts Center Plans Moving Along The Family & Arts Center is on track and we're ready to roll! In May, the lSD #728 School Board unanimously approved a resolu- tion which reaffirms its partnership with ERAAA in the regional Family & Art Center. It also formally commits to locating the center in the historic Handke School in Elk River, contingent upon the successful passing of a bond referendum for a new elementary school and city involvement. Handke has been closed as a school, but will continue to be used for the districrs Early Childhood & Family Education and Community Education programs (major components of the Family Center.) Originally, the Family & Arts Center was to be in a newly constructed building, but the school district began looking at other op- tions in an effort to conserve dollars and maximize the utilization of current space. Community Education has obtained a $500,000 grant from the State of Minnesota for their portion of the construction costs. The Family & Arts Center will be a regional facility with programs in- cluding Community Education, Early Childhood & Family Education, Head Start, two Sherburne County Human Services programs and the ERAAA Arts Center. It will have a large, beautiful multi-use com- munity gathering space with catering facilities. As a place for life-long learning, services to families, and a sense of community, the Family & Arts Center will provide classrooms, studios and offices for the above programs. The centerpiece of the Family & Arts Center will be an atrium, an aesthetically pleasing space for arts exhibits, informal performances & presentations, meetings, and daily visits with friends and family. Handke School has a particularly beau- tiful view of the historic Handke Stadium, which is currently being restored by the Rotary. Care would be taken to carry the creative and historic visual themes throughout the building. With the wide variety of programs and services provided, the Family & Arts Center will be like no other facility in our area: a vital, creative, inviting place for all ages. The ERAAA Arts Center Planning Committee is also exploring other sites, including space in Elk River's Historic Downtown. If the school district cannot release Handke as an elementary school, the commit- tee needs to identify other viable options. The plan is to conduct fea- sibility studies this summer so that we can embark on our construc- tion and capital fund raising plans this fall. We wantYOUR input: ERAAA's Arts Center Planning Committee ~embers are Tony Darkenwald, Harvey Schroeder, Lyla Aaland, John *"'"Kuester, Sara Hartman, David Flannery, Sharon Tracy, Nancy Gongoll, Chris Mettling and Isobel Stander. Feel free to visit with committee members to ask questions or give us your opinion. Call the ERAAA office 763-441-4725 for contact information. ~>ny D~r~enw~id page 2, Featured Artist, Rena Haus page 3, W,~at's the D/fference? Exhibit & Sb'ings forYou(h P~3e 4, Poetry Workshop with Olivia Gault p~ge 5, E~.AA Art Exhibits p~e 5, Community Ed. P~ans New Program and the LeffeI-McGre~ Workshop pa~e 7, Artists Ca~l and Even[s Calendar See the fnserted [tier ~or fn[ormatfon on an ERA~ members p~c~fc ~ter thfs summer. Three Rivers CommunityTheatre Invites New Members to Share in Planning Local community theatre members and well as anyone who appreciates drama, music, comedy, and dance, received an exceptional boost this year when the Elk River City Council voted to purchase the Elk River Area Senior High School Little Theatre. The City Council also generously opened the theatre's doors to the Three Rivers Community Theatre's yearly productions. This move will definitely help the community theatre group to revitalize itself as use of the theatre space previously had been needed from school use and student production. For several years community theatre members found it difficult and sometimes impossible to locate a stage in the Elk River area to put on performances. A meeting for anyone interested in becoming a part of this theatre resurgence was held June 20 and the turnout was tremendous. Plans are being made for a musical, The After Hours Cafe, which is being written by Elaine Anderson and will be performed the last two weekends in September. Anyone interested in being involved in this theatre revitalization or the upcoming musical may call Les or Elaine Anderson at 763-441-2612. ;ured tist of the onth: Rena Haus Folk and blues artist Rena Haus, who composed and performed the song What's the Difference? for the Elk River Area Arts Alliance's show of the same name, has re- cently returned to her home town, St. Michael, from Phoenix, Arizona. It is Phoenix's loss and our fortunate gain. Rena comes from a musical family. Growing up she sang in church and says that "we always sang around the house and harmonized all the time." Her mother was a professional musician who encouraged creativity in her entire family and helped Rena polish a vocal style which many compare with that of the late Billie Holiday. "1 love it when I get this one group of little old ladies who follow me around because they just love Billie Holliday. For them, the sassier the music, the better. So I tend to hit on that, just like the old blues women like Ma Rainey and Memphis Minnie. That style has a bit more of a 'strong woman' attitude behind it," she says. Singing and composing are not her only talents, Rena also plays guitar, mandolin and banjo. Influences on her style include Bessie Smith, Muddy Waters, Reverend Gary Davis, the Beatles, Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, and Joan Baez. She comments, "1 love the story telling ability of these artists and their simple musical forms which make the stories relevant to huge demographics of American society." She adds that they were civic minded, articulate, creative people who have been honored but remained humble. "When I listen to them, I know I'm not alone. These are my people." Rena has released a solo album, Beer to Go, which includes recordings of her work made over an eight-year period. Her single, Mechanics Tune was previewed on National Public Radio's Car Talk. Her tape Tales of the Desert features twelve original songs in a variety of styles ranging from rock and reggae to country and blues. While in Arizona she was featured on cable TV show Blues Spotlight, and performed with blues harmonica master Hans Olson and legendary blues drummer Chico Chism on KJXX's tenth anniversary broadcast of Those Low Down Blues. In addition, she guested on KZON's Studio Z in a one-hour special featuring her original music. Rena is also a visual artist who designed posters for Arizona's Earth Day celebrations. She works with air brush, pen and ink, and hand paints as well. She has also given lectures and demonstrations about the blues mots of popular music to school-aged students. Rena personifies new emerging solo artists like Tracey Chapman and Nancy Griffith who have something important to say and say it with style, originality, and soulful finesse. CD's of her piece What's the Difference? and other work are available for purchase, see page 3 for Rena's "What's the Difference" verse. WatchI [or the next issue of The £ddy for information resardin~ a fabulous three- part Concert Series planned in collaboration with the ERAAA, Central Lutheran Church, and the Arts Masnet Pro,ram in celebration of the ~ openin~ of the new 850 seat auditorium at Elk River Area High School!' Newsletter of the Elk River Area Arts Council, July and August 2002, Edition Number 40 pa~e 2 What's the Difference? Travels to Edina and St. Cloud If you missed the highly-praised What's the Difference? exhibit when it was here in Elk River, you still have oppor- tunity to see it. The show, which features works from 28 regional artists, will be open to the public at the Edina Art Center, 4701 West 64th Street, from July 11 through August 24 and will then travel to the Paramount Theater, 913 West St. Germain, St. Cloud from September 5 through September 30. What's the Difference? recently completed its second showing at the Myles Reif Center for the Performing Arts during May. The first was at Salina Spa and Salon in April. Using their chosen medium, each artist created an original work for the exhibit, loosely based on their copy of the same black and white photograph. The show features paintings in oil, watercolor and pas- tels, clay and metal sculpture, stained glass, mixed media, music, literature and drama. The Reif Center adjoins the Grand Rapids High School building, where the school's English and Art teachers were drawn to the educational nature of the exhibit. These instructors brought their students to study the artwork, comparing each piece to the "subject photo". Examining the differences, the students discussed how the personality or mood of each artist was revealed in their art. The teachers and David Marty, the Reif Center's Director, expressed to us that the value of the show was extraordinary for both the students and the many visitors at the center. Karen Kiefer, the exhibit's project director, and her "mounties" (the inexhaustible crew enlisted to move and hang the exhibit from site to site), have been receiving accolades on behalf of the show from many people who have seen it. Kiefer was even featured on Grand Rapids television and radio broadcasts, discussing the creative process and challenges the artists under- went as they created their works. They are proud of the acclaim the traveling show is bringing to Elk River across the region, encouraging YOU to engage in "the difference" and to offer your own creative insights. For additional information regarding the exhibits, call the ERAAA office at 763-441-4725. What's the Difference? Pickin' through the pieces of someone else's broken dream Finding all the common threads that bind these souls to me Reaching back into the past, a box of memories Every one a loving stitch in life's rich tapestry And yet, I hear it said around me every day Seems like every time I turn around, I hear someone say What's the difference, if I walk away from this? To know too much is painful, sometimes ignorance is bliss. How will I find the strength to carry all this truth with me somehow? The difference is here, the difference is now. Living in the present, learning from the past Dreams like dust slip through my hands, life slips away so fast. A higher voice is calling you, A higher truth in answer to Every wish and every prayer and every dream you've ever had And if we act like we don't care and we don't see How will the choices we make change the course of our life's history? What's the difference, if I choose not to respond To the gifts that rye been given when that crucial moment comes? Or could I choose to be a shining light for all the world to see? The difference is you, the difference is me. And if I put myself into your picture, we both might be surprised To find we share the same dream looking through each other's eyes. What's the difference, if I choose not to respond To the gifts that I've been given when that crucial moment comes? Or could I choose to be a shining light for all the world to see? The difference is you, the difference is me. The difference is you and me, right here, right now The difference is you and me, together we can be the difference. Strings for Youth Summer Camp Blends Play With Instruction __ There's still time to register for the second session of Strings for Youth Summer Camp which will be held August 5 through 9 from 9 AM to Noon. Students will have the opportunity to learn and play a variety of musical styles, including classical, folk, fiddle, and contemporary. This summer camp will also include some instruction in reading music, music theory, and the lives of composers. Participants will be able to listen to various recordings of string music and to view videotapes of musical performances. Tuition is $45.00, and the deadline for registering is August 1. Please call Cindy Soltis, instructor, at 763-441-7708 for information. sponsored by Elk Fl~w~r Recreation Wednesdays a[ Noon ~n Qrono Park and L~O~a Aii events ~;:re free. Poetry Workshop Of[ered with Loft Writer Olivia Gault The Elk River Area Arts Alliance is pleased to offer a workshop, Poetry Without Lines, conducted by Olivia Gault next October 15, 22, and 29. Gauit is a writer of poetry and nonfiction whose work has appeared in several literary journals. A writing consultant, Ms. Gault facilitates writing classes for adults and youth. She recently collaborated with visual artist Mark Tomlinson on Landmarks, a book of prose poems and drawings that kinesthetically interpret the path of a mindfully changing life. An example of Ms. Gauit's poetry appears in this newsletter. Poetry Without Lines will ask several questions. Can a poem be a paragraph? What makes a paragraph a poem? As Gertrude Stein opined, "What is poetry and if you know what poetry is what is prose? The prose poem shares elements of poetry and prose. Sometimes poets are prose writers and sometimes prose writers are poets. This class is for writers who enjoy writing and keeping definitions loose. Over three evening workshops, students will read poetry (e.g., Nathaniel Hawthorne, Sesshu Foster, Alison Townsend, Michael Ondaatje, Nikki Giovanni, Eavan Boland) and discuss what poetry entails--defining beliefs that either strengthen or weaken our work. We'll generate poetry of our own: freeform, Chinese bagu, and prose poetry. We'll consider facets of revision: theme, images, and metaphor, rhyme, line breaks and rhythm, language. Each workshop will include readings (photocopies provided by the instructor), discussion, and writing exercises. Participants will be encouraged to share work in class, but we will not critique one another's writing per se. The instructor is happy to provide feedback on work handed in. Everyone will be encouraged to read and write outside of the workshop sessions. The workshop will be open to high school students and adults. Be watching for registration forms in the September/October Eddy. This program is sponsored in part by the Loft Literary Center with funding provided by the Blandin Foundation and the Land O' Lakes Foundation. O! On the log bridge We find ourselves on the log bridge, dangling our legs above the water, a private reverie. It takes patience, a diligence to be still. We look into the teal-green water, allowing our inner rhythm to meld with the water flow. We are becoming ready, ready to release behavior and thoughts which have hurt us and with which we have hurt others. Either we let go, or we don't. We cannot have it both ways. Anyhing dropped in this swiftly moving water will sink and remain on the bottom to look up at us as if through a wavering liquid mirror, a constant reminder of what we have released. No, anything dropped into this water will be pulled downstream by the forceful current, away from our lives. Fearfully, we clutch our old ways. We are on the bridge, open to adventure, ready to make the commitment to cross, but not crossing. A breeze brings our ears the sudden out-of-season rustle of dry brown leaves. An oak held its leaves all winter and must loose them now, before new leaves can grow. We listen to its noise and hear our own, assumptions. When we are ready, change will occur. The water carries away what we release -- maybe all at once, an epiphany, or maybe bit by bit with each bridge we cross. Water runs. Trees fall down. Bridges appear. from Landmarks, Olivia Gault / Mark Tominson © 2002 Newsletter of the Elk River Area Arts Council, July and August 2002, Edition Number 40 page 4 Three Art Shows Will Add Luster to the Summer with works exhibited at the Sherburne County Government Center July 1- August 9 ..... Potters from Northern Clay Center and Michele Pope Mefina Several potters from Northern Clay Center will display their work. Artists whose work will be exhibited in- clude: Kristin Catt, Ray Dabasi, Catherine Gleason, Katharine Gotham, Cyntha Levine, Karin Muchemore, Matt Pogatshink, Jude Reiling, Eric Riess, Brenda Ryan, Barry Schaudt, Joe Singewald, and Andrea Sisel. Pieces on exhibit will be available for purchase from the individual potters. We are pleased to bring the work of these exceptional potters to our area and we are happy to announce that these and other potters from Northern Clay Center will be returning in September for a second show. Michele Pope Melina will present her artwork along with the artists from Northern Clay Center. Painting the emotion of light and atmosphere in a painterly style has become a recognizable attribute of Melina's work. She was born and raised in the picturesque Shenahdoah Valley of Virginia where the beautiful settings of rural farms, country manors, and rolling hills influenced her painting. Much of her current work includes the areas around her home in Hanover, Minnesota. Melina's work has been seen recently in shows with the Oil Painters of America in Chicago, Illinois and Carmel, California, at the Lake Country Pasted Society, the Minnesota Artists Association, and in our own Arts in Harmony show. August 12 - September 20 ..... ERAAA Members August Show A highlight of our art exhibition year is the Members Only Art Show. All Arts Alliance members are eligible to submit as many as five pieces to this non-juried show. All work conforming to the Government Center's concerns regarding appropriate subject matter will be hung. Artists should bring their work to the Government Center, 13880 US Highway 10, Elk River, on Monday, August 12 between 5:00 and 8:00 PM. Stands will be provided for pottery and small sculptures. Large floor standing pieces must be placed on a rug, mat, or plastic sheet. Artists will be responsible for hanging their own pieces and for providing their own labels. A one-page 8 1/2" X 11" resume or artist's statement may be put up along with the work. If work is for sale, artists must include a phone number on the label. Members have sold several pieces from this show each year. For this show the ERAAA does not charge commissions; artists will handle their own sales. Artists must return Friday, September 20 to take down their work between 5:00 and 8:00 PM. Members who cannot take down their own pieces must arrange for someone also to remove them at this time. Dave Beauvais Thank you, CONNEXU$ ENERGY TRUST, for the donation of $200 toward the purchase of a typewriter for the ERAAA office! We appreciate your committment to service, leadership, and community involvement. Newsletter of the Elk River Area Arts Council, July and AuEust 2002, Edition Number 40 pa$1e 5 Healthy Choices Through the Arts Note: The ER/~A we/comes Caro/e McNaughton-Comrners~ who wrote this article, b~k from her sabbatical leave, Cato/e, ~¢m wrote this article t~as bee~ a valuab/e contdbutor ~o cofta,~ borations between the ER~AA and Comrnu~ity Education, Research shows that the after school hours of 3-6 PM are high risk hours for youth, es- pecially those who may be unsupervised or uninvolved. After school activities enhance or enrich the school day curriculum and pro- vide opportunities for youth to make healthy choices during these hours. Middle school students need the freedom to explore new in- terests and choices while in a safe and ap- propriate setting. Sadly, only 19% of Elk River Area students in grades 7, 8, 10 & 11 spend three or more hours per week in creative activities (music, theater or other arts) and only 49% participate in sports, clubs or other organizations according to a March 2001 Search Institute Survey. In Spring 2002, District 728 Community Educa- tion gathered data from students and parents regarding their interest in after school activi- ties to be offered at the district's four middle schools. 83% of students responding cur- rently go home right after school while 46% participate in sports. With the discontinuation of the District's after school sports and other activities for the coming school year (due to budget constraints), Community Education is developing a new after school program for middle school students. Staff will be hired Upper left photo: Instructor, Sherrie McGraw, standing with painters Kathleen Drake, left, and Donna LaBean, right. Upper right photo: Painting the model are Mark Haglund and Paige LaDue Henry Lower left photo: Painter, Jan Johansen Comments: Before this workshop I thought I loved to paint. Now I really love to paint. I have learned to enjoy every beautiful brushstroke, the beauty of the object I am painting, and yes--even the joy of mixing co/ors. Grace Gisselquist Sherrie said something that created a shift in my thinking about painting--for the better. She said that 'the point and fun of (painting) is the result of the discovery while attempting to create something beautiful. Jan Smith Leffel says, 'All great paintings are unfinished in some way, like a conver- sation.' And a workshop. They leave, and we want more. This is a testament to their talent as both artists and teachers. I have discovered a new 'language', a different way to think about putting paint on canvas, the idea that paint is sculptural not linear. Dede Leitner who can offer enthusiasm, encouragement, and ideas to students in grades 6-8. These part time instructors will be scheduled for their choice of one or more 6 or 7 week sessions throughout the school year. The goal is to provide an array of choices in an affordable and non-threatening format that will entice students to become involved. Professional teaching experience is not required to share your knowledge of the numerous arts areas that appeal to kids: drama, writing, photography, cinema- tography, claymation, painting, sculpture, music, dance, etc. Ail community members can help build positive assets in today's youth by helping them find constructive activities, nurturing a commitment to learning, helping them develop social competencies, modeling appropriate behaviors, and nurturing and supporting a positive identity. Consider this opportunity to make a difference in the community. Youth in the Elk River Area need you! Community Education also offers enrichment for adults, elementary ages, preschoolers and families. For further informa- '--.' tion contact Carole McNaughton-Commers, Program Manager at lSD 728 Community Education, 763-241-3520. Email: communityed@elkriver, k12.mn.us Artists Fvents July 8 August 1 Z- September 20 August 19-23 Lyric Arts Auditions for "Harvey" 6-9 PM. Call Phil at 763-433-2519, ext. 105. Elk River Arts Alliance Members are invited to exhibit their work in the members show at the Sherburne County Government Center. See details on page 5. Minnesota Youth Symphonies Auditions for 2002-2003. Call 651-699-5811 or email mys@qwest, net for information. Visit the Alliance's website at www, e[kriverart,0r Elk River Area Arts Alliance Board Isabel Stander, Chair Cad Rock, Vice Chair Nancy Con,oft, Secretary Tony Darkenwatd, Treasurer Pat reit, Director Sara Hartman, Director Patricia Hasslen, Director Jean Loy-Swanson, Director Clifford Lundberg, Director David Raymond, Director Sharon Tracy, Executive Director 400 Jackson, Suite 205 Elk River, Minnesota 55330 phone: 763-441-4725 e-mail: etkriverart®sherbtel, net fax: 763-441-4725 The Eddy is published in part with a grant from the Three Rivers Community Foundation, an operating division of the Initiative- Foundation. The ERAAA is J:unded in part by a grant from the Central Minnesota Arts Board with funds from the McKni~ht Foundation. Editor of The Eddy ...... Sharon Tracy Layout and Design Editor. ..... Jean Loy-Swanson Through July 24 July 12-28 July l- August Julyl- August 9 July 1- August 9 August 12- September 20 July 21 Minnetonka Center for the Arts show featuring 13 Minnesota Artists. This show celebrates the opening of the Center's new facilities at2240 North Shore Drive, Wayzata. Call 952-473-7361 for information Bye Bye Birdie presented by Lyric Arts Main Street Stage. Adults $11.00, students and seniors $9.00. Call 763-422-1838 for information. "What's the Difference?' the Elk River Area Arts Alliance show featuring 28 regional artists at the Edina Art Center, 4701 64th Street, Edina. Call 952-915-6600. Northern Clay Center Potters at the Sherburne County Government Center, Monday- Friday, 8 AM-4 PM. Paintings by Michelle Melina at the Sherburne County Government Center., Monday- Friday, 8 AM-4 PM Elk River Arts Alliance Member Exhibit at the Sherburne County Government Center, Monday- Friday, 8 AM -4 PM. Art in the Gardens sponsored by Artists del Norte. 1- 5 PM, $3.00 per person, $5.00 per family. Tour of six private gardens in Baline and Coon Rapids. For infomration, contact Jan Jasselius at 763-757-1672. ERAAA to participate in Relay for Life As a member of the Volunteer Bridge, ERAAA will participate in the Relay for Life, an event that honors cancer survivors and raises funds for cancer research. Located at Elk River's High School track, the event will be held Friday, August 2nd through Saturday morning August 3rd. There will be a candlelight ceremony on Friday at 10 PM. Anyone interested in helping to fund our team walker, please contact the ERAAA office at 763-441-4725. Newsletter of the Elk River Area Arts Council, July and AuEust 2002, Edition Number 40 paEe 7 ELK tVER AREA ALLIANCE 400 Jsckson Avenue Suite 205 Elk R~ver, M~nnesots 55330 Pmrt Std U.S. Postage Paid Elk River, MN Permit No. 31 Phone: 763.441.4725 Fax: 763,441~4725 elkriversrt(¢,shenSteL net Membership Form If you are an artist, actor, mus~dan, dancer, teacher, consider becomh~g a memben Don't delay! Fill ~n the form below and send it ~n today~ ~ke checks o~t to E~AA and mai[ to: ERASe, 400 Jackson Street, Suite 205, Elk R~ve~; MN 55330. Name _Phone ~ddress City ~State .Zip, ,e-marl to become a member at the fal[owff~g leveh ............. ff'~div~duaL,.5 20 ............... HousehoId..S 30 ~ps are .............. Friend ...... ~ 50 .............. Parrot ...... $100 ,_~.,,,.5usta~ner..,, $200 Senefactor;.$500 ~nnu~y~ .............. Other my t~me to hap w~th the enclosed ~ax deduct~b{e donation ~n the amount o~ ............................................................................................ bdefly describe your arts ~nterest or actMty or person interested in the arts, Member Benefits Include: ERAAA's bimonthly news[otter, The Ed~/. Spec¢al not'ices and invitations for councff sponsored activit'ies such as the Strh'~s ~o~ Youth performances and art exhibit'ions. Members may participate any or att programs, Memberships are tax deductible. The Board of Directors of the Elk River Area Arts Alliance Isobel Stander, Chair: Isobei is a professional clay arlist and retired art teacher who, with her husband John, enjoys a studio and home in Otsego. Pdor to coming to the Elk River area, Isobel headed the Art Department in the Teipei American School in Taiwan, led cultural tours for the Wellesly College masters degree program, and has had many Artist in Residences in Minnesota, Costa Rica, and Hong Kong. She has been a member of the Boards of Northern Clay Center and the Minnetonka Center for the arts and has worked with architects to design new arts fad#ties which included theaters, classrooms, and galleries. Cad Rock, Vice Chair: Cad and husband Lee have been Elk River residents for nine years. A potter, sculptor, and mob~r of three, Cad is currently hosting her fourth foreign exchange student. Carl's work has bccn exhibited in several regional shows and galleries including in St_ cloud, White Bear Lake, and Elk River. She is a volunteer in various church and school organizations as well as the ERAAC. Her current art interests include mosaic, stone fkx)rs and walkways, and natural forms and glazes. Nancy Gongoll, Secretary: Nancy is a Iongtime resident of Elk River. She is an oil painter and a member of the Schroeder Studio. She has bccn a member of the ERAAC for 6 years, the 2001 Arts Alliance since its beginning in 1997, and of numerous civic, church, art, and music organizations. She passionately believes that the arts are essential to the health of our community. Tony Darkenwald, Treasurer: Tony has sewed as Chair of the 2001 Arts Alliance, was Festival Director for ArtSoup 1999 and a team member for Operation ER. She has worked with the Elk River Arts Magnet and is a past member of the Elk River Area Arts Council, past chair of the Sherbume County Alcohol/Drug Advisory Com.m. itte~, ,, .an~ ..WO~o~ with a family owned real estate business. She holds a BA from me un,ye smj Minnesota. Tony, her husband John, and their three children have ~n residents in the Elk River area for 30 years. She currently resides in Olsego. Pat Feit, Director: Pat is currently the vocal music director at Elk River Area High School; She also is on the board and faculty of the Voice Care Network, a nationally recognized igeaderraduate level course on the use of the voice. She was a professional entertainer and team of an interdisciplinary arts course sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Perpich Arts ~. She currently resides in Otsego. Her husband is a retired violist with the Minnesota Orchestra. Sara Hartman, Director: Sara has bccn involved in music, theater, and the visual arts since childhood. The empty nest period has allowed her to become more fully involved in the visual arts. She paints because it makes her happy, lifts her up, makes her aware and abel to express her joy in the beauty of life-and because it is fun! Pat Hasslen, Director: Pat is the past President of the ERAAC Board of Directors. Pat is an ardent art collector, paraculalry of watercolors. She has been actively involved in Arts in Harmony and is interested in visual arts exhibits as well as the other arts. She is President of Renaissance-Enviro Sales in Maple Grove. Jean Loy-Swanson, Director: After 34 years teaching and directing the Cultural Center at North Hennepin Community College, Jean was named Professor Emerita by her colleagues. Prior to coming to NHCC, she taught art at .Man_.kato. S~te U. niversity..a, nd Wichita State University and served on the College Foundation uoara, jean is a pracaclng artist working in metals, ceramics, plastics, and mixed media. Her jewelry, sculpture, and pictures have been shown in galleries all across the country and appear in several pdvate, imtibJIJoral, and corporate collections. Jean lives in Rogers. Clifford Lundberg, Director: A former mayor of Elk River and a local attorney, Cliff has bccn active in the Elk River Community Theatre for many years. He has served on the ERAAC Board of Directors intermittently since its founding and serves as its legal advisor. Cliff has bcc~n the driving force behind the River's Edge Mural in downtown Elk River. David Raymond, Director: David grew up in Minneapolis and spent his summers at the family cabin on Twin Lake in Bums Township. Throughout his school years Dave sang in several choirs and still performs with the Macalester College Festival Chorale. Since moving to Elk River in 1982 Dave has built sets for the Elk River Community Theatre and has sung with the Community Choir. He has chaired the Facilities Committee for ArtSoup 1999 and 2001 and is past Secretary and Treasurer of the 2001 Committee. Sharon Tracy, The Executive Director, holds an MA in english, a BS in Secondary educalJon, and a BA in HumanilJes from lhe University of Minnesota. Ms. Tracy taught Humanities and English classes for twenty-one years in Anoka-Hennepin School District 11 and was the gifted and Talented Program Advocate for several years. Recently retired from public education, Ms. Tracy joined the ERAAA staff in October, 2000. Cynthia Soltis, the Strings for Youth Director, received a BA in Music Education from Lawrence University. She has bccn string instructor for Mount Senario College in Ladysmith, Wisconsin and for Flambeauland Suzuki Talent Education Program in Rusk County, Wisconsin. She has taught privately and i.n the Strings f.or..Youl~h. ~og.r .a~n in.E!k River. Soltis has performed in Bluegrass, Folk-Contemporary, ano [:ountry-Hoct( Danos in the area and is first violinist in the Northeast Orchestra. She also performs in vadous community and church events.