Arts Events across the Region

LISTING OF EVENTS & ARTS OPPORTUNITIES

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Arts events and Activities in our Region

What: 2022 McKnight Fiber Artist Fellows Moira Bateman moirabateman.art and Blair Treuer Blair Treuer Textile Art at the Textile Center galleries in Minneapolis
When: Now through April 8, 2023. Treuer’s exhibit is from her series entitled “Becoming: The Transition from Childhood to Womanhood”
More Info: Blair is a storyteller from rural, northern Minnesota, who paints with fabric and draws with thread. 

Funding for this program is provided by the McKnight Foundation.

What: Diamond Knispel’s “Wild Whimsy of the Northwoods”
When: exhibit runs through April 28
Where: Watermark Art Center, 505 Bemidji Ave. N, Bemidji
More info: This event and exhibits at the WAC are free and open to the public. Set against the Northwoods background, her intricate, whimsical paintings invite you to experience a warm spring day in the hidden lives of the wild world’s flora and fauna.  Each piece of work comes with its own short story. And while these stories reflect on the subjects of each piece, they also dig deeper into Knispel’s human experiences that influenced every paint stroke and color choice. Visit WatermarkArtCenter.org for detailed event and exhibit information.

What: Glass on Glass on Mosaics Create It! Workshop
When: March 13, 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where: Clear Waters Life Center, Gonvick
Cost: $10.00
Registration: https://www.clearwaterslife.org/art-experiences.html

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Mini Musician Program for Children Ages 3-4 and their Grown-ups
When: Wednesdays, March 15 -May 17, 10:30-11:15 (no session April 5, 26 or May 10)
Where: Headwaters Music & Arts, 519 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Contact: info@headwatersmusicandarts.org | 218.444.5606
Who: For children ages 3-4 their grown-ups
Cost: $150/ child-adult pair, $75/ additional sibling. Financial assistance available.

What: Three Adult Pottery Opportunities through Headwaters Music and Arts
Where: Headwaters Music & Arts, 519 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji

Introduction to Ceramics for Adults, Thursdays 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., March 16 – May 4
Monday Adult Pottery Program, 6 – 8 p.m. Membership
Wednesday Adult Pottery Program, 5-7 p.m. Membership

Cost: Each program costs $100/month ($90 for Headwaters Members).
Register: https://headwatersmusicandarts.org/product-category/pottery-programming

What: Open Mic Night at the Armory Arts and Events Center
When: Thursday, March 16 at 7:00pm
Where: The Armory, 203 Park Ave South, Park Rapids
More info: Start the St. Patrick’s weekend where there’s sure to be a few Irish tunes. Performers – there are still a few 10 min slots left so gives AA&EC a call at 218-237-3722 and sign up to show your talent!

What: Music & Movement Spring Block- a group music class for ages 5-8
When: Fridays, 4:00-4:45 pm, March 17- May 19 (no session April 7, 28, or May 12)
Where: Headwaters Music & Arts, 519 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Contact: info@headwatersmusicandarts.org | 218.444.5606
Who: Children ages 5-8
Cost: $150 per child. Limited financial assistance is available.

What: Six Appeal Bemidji 2023
When: Friday March 17 & Saturday March 18
Where: Bemidji High School Auditorium
More Info: featuring Vocalmotive, La Boce Ballo, Jive, Pizazz
Tickets: $16.00 for adults, $14.00 for students, General Seating
Tickets can be purchased at Lueken’s North and South, at the door, or online at www.showchoirsofbemidji.com

What: Rug Making Demonstration Workshop: Learn to Make Standing Fabric Rugs 
When:
Demonstration– March 18, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Two-day workshop– Saturday April 8 & April 15 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 
Where: Watermark Art Center, 505 Bemidji Ave N, Bemidji
Cost: No cost for the demonstration on 3/18; Workshop fee is $40 for Watermark members or $45 for non-members. An additional materials fee of $25 for tools and materials will be payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Please visit the class webpage for complete information and registration: watermarkartcenter.org/product/standing-fabric-rug-making/
More info: Adults ages 15 and up are invited to explore the shirred rug-making technique with local teaching artist Starr Ann Lenz. Using wool fabric, students will learn how to incorporate rich textures, colors and patterns into this traditional style of rug-making. Over the course of the workshop, participants will create a sample-sized, mini reversible rug.

What: Aanikoosijigaade – “It Is Linked”
Where: In the Miikanan Gallery at the Watermark Art Center, 505 Bemidji Avenue N
When: Exhibit runs March 6 – May 20. The public is invited to a reception for the artists from 2 – 4pm Saturday, March 18. 
More Info:The connecting of stories; things old brought to new is an idea that is translated by two new and emerging artists Joan Kauppi, collage artist, and Shaawan Francis Keahna, cross-disciplinary artist and musician . Converging across generations, gender, and media they bring their observations about identity and current culture into dynamic visual metaphors. Using collaging humor, question, and poignancy they challenge the viewer to think more deeply about the world they are part of. Aanikoosijigaade pronounced: watermarkartcenter.org/aanikoosijigaade-it-is-linked/
Cost: Watermark galleries are free and open to the public Monday – Saturday from 10 to 5pm and located at 505 Bemidji Avenue N. in Bemidji, Minnesota, 218-444-7570. Visit WatermarkArtCenter.orgfor membership information, detailed exhibit, event and class information. 

This activity was made possible in part by the Blandin Foundation and the McKnight Foundation.

What: Warm Your Heart with a Little Art Workshops
When: February – March
Where: Gallery North, 310 4th Street NW; Bemidji, MN
More Info: Gallery North is offering 18 different workshops between February and March.  (go to http://gallerynorthbemidji.com/warm-your-heart-with-a-little-art for workshop list). Workshops typically run 2-3 hours; Members of the public at all skill levels who are 16 years and older are welcome to participate in these workshops.  Materials and supplies are provided.
Cost: Free
Registration: Pre-registration is required. Visit Gallery North in Bemidji to Register. Most classes are limited to 8 people, so sign up early. Participants may sign up for two classes and be added to the alternate list if more classes are desired.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Art and Vendor Event
When: March 18, 2023; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Bagley Public Library Community Room, 79 Spencer Ave NW, Bagley
More info: An incredible group of Artisans & Vendors with products & work to dazzle you!

What: Irish Lumberjack Folksongs with Brian Miller
When: 1:00 p.m. Saturday March 18
Where: Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Ave. Bemidji
More info: Join us as we listen to the songs and stories of the Northwoods lumber camps with Brian Miller. Brian will explain how the Irish influenced music in the Northwoods and tell the stories of prize-winning fiddler and singer Albert Hannah who worked on the railroad in Shevlin, and Hank “Cuckoo of the North” Underwood who would sing on the steps of the Kelliher Hotel and also performed at the unveiling of the Paul Bunyan statue in 1937. We will be livestreaming this event here on the Bemidji Library Facebook and also at the Cass Lake Library if you can’t make it in person!

What: “All Things Bookmaking” with DeeDee Narum (Warm Your Heart with a Little Art series)
When: Saturday, March 18, 10:30 – 4:30 (includes lunch break)
Where: Gallery North, 310 4th Street NW; Bemidji, MN
More info:  In this workshop students will be creating handmade books from scratch. Students will start with a basic cardboard structure (cereal or cracker box) and learn the basics of book construction. Students will learn the how to create a book cover and binding, how to create statement inserts and attach pages. Students will create two books. One will be a leather look cover and the second will be of the student’s choice once the basics are learned. Examples of other book covers such as, lace, cloth, and paper will be provided. Students will also learn the many ways to embellish, personalize and decorate their handmade books. We will make paper beads, book closures, pockets and other embellishments for a highly personalized finished book. 
Note: Students are encouraged to bring a hair dryer or heat gun if available but not necessary. Students are encouraged to bring a sack lunch. 
To register: Stop by Gallery North to sign up today! Call 218-444-9813

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund

What: Arts Action Week! Participate in Arts Action Week and help protect the arts funding you love.
When: March 20-24; virtual meetings throughout the week with legislators AND an in-person Rally for the Arts on March 21!
Where: Hybrid: Virtually and in-person at the State Capitol for those who can attend
More info: JOIN ADVOCATES ACROSS MINNESOTA TO RALLY FOR THE ARTS!
Minnesota’s premiere arts gathering will be going hybrid this year! You are needed to help “rally the troupes,” recognize this community’s resilience, and make our voice heard at the State Capitol and advocate for arts Legacy/General funds and our $100+ million bill for the arts.
With your action—in-person and as part of Zoom calls with legislators—we can help legislators understand the importance of the arts to guarantee funding at this critical time. We listened to your feedback and this year we are giving you multiple ways to advocate from letter writing and legislative Zoom Meetings to an in-person rally on MARCH 21st at 2:30.
MCA is a recognized national leader is arts advocacy. Arts Action Week helps to preserve our Legacy Amendment and state grant funds.
Register: https://artsmn.org/act/advocacy-opportunities/

What: Audition Call! Sign up at https://www.northernlightopera.org/little-shop-auditions 
And: FREE Audition Workshop with Northern Light Opera Company, 
When: Sun, Mar 19 2-4PM @ the Armory in Park Rapids–watch for sign up info soon!

What: Basket Making Class
When: Monday March 20 & Monday April 17. 12:30 – 3 p.m.
Where: Clear Waters Life Center, Gonvick
Cost: $10 per person
Registration: No registration required. All ages and skill levels welcome.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Tell Me a Story- storytellers Mary Moose and Joe Sutherland present traditional snow stories
When: Monday, March 20, 2023; 6 p.m.
Where: Bemidji Public Library, 509 America Avenue, Bemidji.
More Info: The Bemidji Public Library, Beltrami County Historical Society, and the Cass Lake Library are honored to present the series Tell Me a Story, an exploration of the art of storytelling. In Ojibwe culture, storytelling is an important art and tradition. Winter, especially, is storytelling season. Mary Moose is a first-language Ojibwe and Cree speaker from Nishnawbe-Aski Nation. She was raised in the bush where she learned Ojibwe knowledge and values. She and her son, Ogimaawap (Joe Sutherland), a storyteller and artist in his own right, dedicate their lives to passing on Ojibwe knowledge and values. 

What: Cory Medina and Brothers
When: Thursday March 23, 7 p.m.
Where: Armory Arts and Events Center
More Info: The Armory Arts & Events Center is very excited to announce a live concert at the armory with Corey Medina and Brothers Corey Medina & Brothers is a Blues Rock band based in Northern Minnesota. The concert will be a full 2-hour show performed by Corey Medina & Brothers playing a range of music from their two full-length albums, SOAK and Better Days, and more. 

Wine Not and Revel Brewing will provide alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Seating will be provided in addition to standing/dancing room.

This event is only possible thanks to our generous sponsors, Park Rapids Rotary Club, 2nd Street Stage, Park Rapids Walker Eye Clinic, Gartner Real Estate Team, and thanks to generous support from the Region 2 Arts Council.

Tickets will be available for purchase with cash or check only at Beagle and Wolf Starting March 6th. Or on the Armory Arts and Events Facebook event listing

What: The Art of Assemblage
When: Saturday March 25, 2023; 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Watermark Art Center, 505 Bemidji Avenue North
More Information: Learn about the art of three-dimensional collage, or assemblage, with former Watermark exhibiting artist, Karlyn Atkinson Berg. Assemblage is collage which has evolved into the 3-d form using found objects, a broad range of unusual odds and ends, shapes, trinkets, stamps, images, photos, postcards, old letters, beads, fabric, mementos, paper, paint, and collage materials. 
Registration:  https://watermarkartcenter.org/pro…/the-art-of-assemblage/

What: Movie Screening of THE WANDERING EARTH 2; Q&A with international and local actor in the film, Ning “Nick” Li 
When: Saturday, March 25th at 6:00pm.
Where: Park Theater in Park Rapids
About the film: After learning that the sun is rapidly burning out, humans build giant engines in a desperate attempt to propel Earth to a new solar system, leaving the fate of humankind in the hands of the few brave enough to accept the perilous mission. Based on the novella by New York Times bestselling author Cixin Liu.
NOTE: This film is presented in Mandarin with Chinese and English subtitles 
(Catch up before the event and watch THE WANDERING EARTH: PART 1 on Netflix)

What: Bemidji Symphony Orchestra Concert No. 5- Living Landscapes
When: March 26, 3 p.m.
Where: Bemidji High School Auditorium, Bemidji
More info: Flutist Hannah Porter Occeña is featured in this Minnesota premiere of Joseph Kern’s Shenandoah Variations for Flute and Orchestra. The BSO also performs Grofé’s Grand Canyon Suite and The Acadian Land by Romeo Cascarino.
Cost and ticket purchase: Adults $25; Senior Citizens $20; College Students $10, K-12 students: free.  https://www.bemidjisymphony.org

This activity is made possible by the voters of MN through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Mosaics Spring Garden Creations
When: March 27 – April 24, 2023; Monday Evenings 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Clear Waters Life Center, Gonvick
More info: Instructor Juleigh Prosser
Cost: $5 per person
Registration: https://www.clearwaterslife.org/art-experiences.html

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Open auditions for “Corresponding Lives” a play by local playwright Barbara Schlichting
When: Tuesday March 28nd and Wednesday the 29th from 5:00 – 6:30 pm 
Where: The Bemidji Community Theater’s Performing Arts Center, on Beltrami Ave in Bemidji
More info: The play is the poignant portrayal of the pen-pal relationship between two women over the course of 55 years. The roles will be double cast with two younger women to play the roles in their early lives and two mature women to play the characters in the later parts of their lives. This production is part of the Studio Works program at BCT where regional authors or directors are given a showcase to put new works on stage.

What:  Minnesota Stories with Kevin Kling
When: Wednesday March 29, 2023 6 p.m.; Thursday March 30 7p.m.
Where: Wednesday at the Bemidji Public Library; Thursday at the Armory Arts and Events Center in Park Rapids
More Info: Humorist, playwright and author, Kevin Kling is hailed as a Minnesota state treasure. His writing weaves his sense of humor and unique perspective together with the life challenges he has surmounted.  

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Learn the Art of Writing Grants! With Janet Brademan
When: March 30, 2023; 5 – 7 p.m
Where: Bagley Public Library
More info: Janet Brademan is a long-time grant writer in the arts.  She will offer information on upcoming grant opportunities that attendees may be interested in learning about 
Registration: no registration required

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Maker Meet
When: March 30, April 27, May 25
Where: Held in the meeting space at Cantabria Coffee Company, 211 2nd Street NW, Bemidji.
More info: Are you looking for a place to connect with and be inspired by other creatives? We welcome you to join us at Maker Meet, an informal gathering of diverse artists, crafters, and makers of all mediums. Come by to network, chat, or create. Bring a project you’ve already been working on or try our mini project of the day provided by Watermark (intro’d by a guest artist), or just hang out, have a coffee, and soak up some inspiration. No fee to attend, but donations are appreciated
Cost: No cost; donations accepted
Registration: no registration required

What: Great Thaw Craft Fest!
When: April 1, 2023 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where: Bemidji High School
More info: Showcasing over 50 local crafters and small businesses.  Admission is free.
Presented by Creative North

What: A PLACE ON THE EDGE OF BREATH, Short Documentary, 2022
When: Saturday April 1 at 7 p.m.
Where: Rail River Folk School, 303 Railroad Street SW, Bemidji
More Info: Watermark Art Center is honored to present the short documentary “A Place on the Edge of Breath.” Shaawan Francis Keahna, a producer of the documentary, has arranged to screen the film with the Bemidji community at no charge. He will be joined by co-producer Ava Aodha for a discussion following the screening. Keahna, a cross-disciplinary artist and musician, currently has additional video work on display in Watermark’s Miikanan Gallery in a joint exhibit with emerging collage artist Joan Kauppi entitled Aanikoosijiaade “It is Linked.” A reception for the exhibition artists is scheduled for this Saturday, March 18 from 2 – 4pm at Watermark.

Running Time: 29 minutes
Genre: Coming of Age, Documentary, LGBTQ, Short Film                  
Directed By Veronica Rutledge             
Produced By Shaawan Francis Keahna, Ava Aodha and Veronica Rutlege                               
Edited by Thomas Rivera Montes 
Cinematographer Nada Stjepanovic     
Composer Camilla Uboldi
Previous showings include the 2022 New Orleans Film Festival. 

What: 2023 GREAT AMERICAN THINK-OFF QUESTION Available for response:
“Which is more important to protect: the environment or the economy?”
Deadline to submit essays: April 1, 2023
More submission info: All are invited to submit an essay of 750 words or less for a chance to win $500 and the opportunity to argue your position in front of a live audience in June.
Learn more & submit your essay here: https://www.kulcher.org/2023-great-american-think-off…/About The Great American Think-Off: now in its 30th year, it is an annual philosophy contest held in New York Mills, MN (population 1,294), and produced by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center.

What: Reflections of Home; paintings by Gillian Bedford
When: Opening April 4 – closing May 5, 2023
Where: Bemidji State University’s Talley Gallery
More info: In this show, the artist shows the beauty of her surroundings of Northern Minnesota. This is work she has done in the last three years- inspired by the camping trips, and Plein Air experiences, and work in her studio inspired by photographs. 

What: Watermark presents STORY SLAM! 
Where: Bemidji Brewing, 211 America Ave NW, Bemidji, MN
When: April 4th. Doors and same day registration begin at 6:30. Performances at 7pm.
What: The theme for the evening is “SPARK.” SPARK calls to mind the beginning, the impetus, or the catalyst of change. Is it a sudden inspiration, a flash of emotion, a moment that ignites a blaze or an ember that fizzles into ash?
More information: Free to participate! Free to Watch! Featuring live music by John Henningsgaard. You are invited to share your personal stories with a live audience in this celebratory evening of connection and community-building. Performers will have a chance to win cash prizes up to $200.
To Register: Call Watermark if you’d like to pre-register for the SLAM 218 444-7570. Rules and competition guidelines online. 
Pre-Story Slam Workshop: Watermark is also offering a 2-day workshop prior to the Story Slam. Spoken word artists of all experience levels are invited to work with professional storytelling coach Ann Marie Newman at two-day workshops, set to be held the week before each performance. Through an interactive series of games, improv exercises, group work and constructive feedback, participants will learn practical techniques to create dynamic, engaging stories with an audience in mind. While workshop attendance is not required to take part in Story Slam events, participants will be guaranteed a space in that week’s Slam if they wish to perform. Cost for the two-day workshop is $10; register online at WatermarkArtCenter.org. Need-based scholarships are available; email lgrunzke@watermarkartcenter.org for more information.watermarkartcenter.org/product/storytelling-workshop/ 

What: Headwaters Open Mic and CoffeeHouse
When: April at 7pm
Where: Headwaters Music & Arts | 519 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Contact: jjhgaard@gmail.com or info@headwatersmusicandarts.org | 218.444.5606
Who: Open to the public
Cost: $3 per person or $7 for families
More Info: Debbie Center is a classically trained pianist with a passion for improvising psychedelic and classic rock songs, especially when jamming with other like-minded musicians. Among her favorite bands are The Grateful Dead, The Beatles, Jethro Tull, Led Zeppelin, Moody Blues, and Stevie Wonder, though she is inspired by many more. In addition to her solo piano gigs Debbie also performs with a number of other musicians throughout northern Minnesota and the Twin Cities. She enjoys composing piano music inspired by her gratitude for living in beautiful Nevis, Minnesota. Debbie will perform a variety of tunesCoffee and treats are available for purchase courtesy of Apple Blossom Village in partnership with Starbucks.

What: Good Morning Bedlam Live at the Historic Chief Theater
When: April 7, 2023. 7:30 p.m.
Where: Historic Chief Theater, 314 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji
Tickets: https://paulbunyanplayhouse.thundertix.com/events/210062?fbclid=IwAR144gqThHCPIzyKqKKRMlULt6W8-b9EAKKfDwEd4w2rIP1k_1296-driyM

What: Bagley Area Arts Collaborative presents Mono Print Transfers on Clay: Pottery Platters WorkshopWhen: April 10 – 14, 2023; 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Instructor: Kate Hammer
Location: Clear Waters Life Center – Gonvick
Cost: $100 which includes all supplies
More info: Images drawn and transferred using the mono print transfer technique. This is a 5 day workshop. Register at https://www.bagleyarts.org/classes.html

What: Marcie Rendon, author of Sinister Graves, Murder on the Red River, and Girl Gone Missing, to speak in Mahnomen
When: Thursday April 13, 6:00 p.m.
Where: Mahnomen Fire Hall
More info: Lake Agassiz Regional Library presents Marcie Rendon, who will speak about her most recent book Sinister Graves, a gripping mystery set in Minnesota in the 1970s, and her life and career as an author.  

This activity is made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota and the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Songwriters’ Showcase
When: Friday April 21- Doors open 6:30; Showtime 7:00
Where: Armory Arts and Events Center in Park Rapids
More info: Featuring FIVE Minnesota singer/songwriters performing their original songs in an intimate setting with Q&A from the audience!
Ted Hajnasiewicz performs with a magnetizing honesty and reflective tone that speaks to the very essence of the human spirit. Ted is a prolific writer that enjoys co-writing in various styles.
Kelley Smith is a guitar picker with an old-timey voice. Her authentic, rootsy sound, falling somewhere between country, folk, bluegrass and old time music, is a pitch-perfect vehicle for the themes she explores.
Sarah Morris, called a “country-leaning Norah Jones” (Star Tribune), wields a keen eye and a captivating voice; offering poignant, relatable songs with timeless melodies. 
Matthew French creates music to connect people through shared stories of love and loss. He has grown a loyal fan base through his engaging performances, wry sense of humor and warm, community-minded spirit.
Scott Jasmin crafts songs that pay tribute to the beauty and tragedy of everyday, ordinary Midwestern small-town life… its highs, lows, triumphs, failures, love, loss, and mundanity.

Emceed by the multitalented and irrepressible Debbie Center!

Tickets:  A limited number of $20.00 GOLDEN TICKETS will be available for pre-purchase at the Armory office, the bearer of which is entitled to FIRST CHOICE of seating (including the Armory’s unique and PRIMO selection of lounge chairs, loveseats and sofas!)
General Admission: $20 at the door
Refreshments will be available for purchase from Wine Not? and Revel Brewing of Park Rapids

The Armory Arts & Events Center, Scott Jasmin Music and Songwriters Showcase would like to thank their sponsors: Park Rapids Hardwoods & Milling & Wine Not? wine bar (Park Rapids)

What: Monroe Crossing in Concert with Headwaters & Friends
When: Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 7p.m.
Where: Historic Chief Theater,  314 Beltrami Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601
Contact: info@headwatersmusicandarts.org | 218.444.5606
Who: Open to the public
Cost: $30 Admission
Additional Information: Headwaters Music & Arts is excited to welcome back to Bemidji world-class bluegrass entertainers Monroe Crossing for Headwaters’ biggest fundraiser of the year. Opening for the band will be Headwaters & Friends, a lineup of talented instructors and students of Headwaters Music & Arts.

What: “Northern Lights” Native Nations Fashion Night in partnership with Fashion Week MN
When: April 25, 2023; 5 – 10 p.m.
Where: The Machine Shop, 300 – 2nd Street South East, Minneapolis
Tickets available at Eventbrite.com, “Northern Lights.” 
More info: “Northern Lights,” a unique fashion experience showcase the lifeways of the Yup’ik of Alaska & the Great Lakes Woodlands Anishinaabeg
This activity is made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota and the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.

What: Park Rapids Classic Chorale Spring Concert
When: April 28 at 7:30 p.m.; April 30 at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Riverside United Methodist Church, 1005 Park Ave North, Park Rapids

What: Watermark’s 2nd Story Slam
When: Doors open at 6:30, performances begin at 7 p.m. May 2nd
Where: Bemidji Brewing, 211 America Ave. NW, Bemidji
More Info: Watermark StorySlam events feature true personal stories, shared live from memory, in a friendly competition where anyone with a tale to tell is invited to take the stage. Performers are encouraged to consider the THEME of each event when crafting their story. StorySlam events are free to attend and perform at, and cash prizes are available! 
Registration: Storytellers are strongly encouraged to pre-register by calling 218-444-7570. Limited same-day signups may be available but are not guaranteed. Visit watermarkartcenter.org/upcoming-events/ for SLAM schedules, rules, and themes. 
Pre-Story Slam Workshop: spoken word artists of all experience levels are invited to work with professional storytelling coach Ann Marie Newman at two-day workshops, each set to be held the week before the performance. Through an interactive series of games, improv exercises, group work and constructive feedback, participants will learn practical techniques to create dynamic, engaging stories with an audience in mind. While workshop attendance is not required to take part in Story Slam events, participants will be guaranteed a space in that week’s Slam if they wish to perform. Cost for the two-day workshop is $10; register online at WatermarkArtCenter.org. Need-based scholarships are available; email lgrunzke@watermarkartcenter.org for more information.

What: Loon Bird Café
When: May 3, 5 – 8 p.m. d
Where: Table for 7, Beltrami Ave Bemidji
More info: In the spirit of the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, area songwriters and chefs are hosting a pop-up Loon Bird Cafe, where people gather for a meal and listen to songwriters Doyle Turner, Mary Overlie, Lance Benson, and Lisa Mattson trade original songs throughout the evening.  

While it’s an unproven fact, we have the highest number of musicians and songwriters per capita in the state. Our woods are teeming with songwriters tucked into pine stands and hollows, finding the words to give voice to the human experience. 

Each cafe features a rotating selection of local singer-songwriters who have honed their craft. There’s a localness to their storytelling, creating a deeper sense of place for listeners gathered. The evenings become yet another way to celebrate this abundant place we call home.

What: Bagley Area Arts Collaborative presents Getting the Right Focus with Lowell Wolff 
Note: This workshop is intended for dedicated camera users – not smartphone cameras. 
When: June 10 and 17, 2023; 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM each day
Where: Itasca State Park, Jacob V. Brower Visitor Center Classroom
Cost: $50
More Info: Photographer Lowell Wolff,will be leading the classes. His most recent collection, Reflections of Northern Minnesota, was featured at the Watermark Art Center and the Reif Gallery of the MacRostie Art Center.  Class size is limited to 15. Go to https://www.bagleyarts.org/classes.html for more info.

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Region 2 Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund

What: Indigenous Art Fair
When: May 13, 2023 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Where: Plains Art Museum in Fargo, ND
More info: The expanded event will feature 40 Indigenous artists from North and South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and from around the region
Exhibitors: Apply by March 31.  Go to https://plainsart.org/indigenous-craft-fest-submission-5-23/

What: Youth Drum at Northwest Indian Community Development Center
When: Mondays on-going.  Starts at 5, dinner at 6, ends at 7:00 p.m.
Where: 1819 Bemidji Avenue North, Bemidji
More info: Learn about the Big Drum from Kevin Mainville. Boys can sit at the drum and learn, girls can observe and dance. Questions? contact Jennifer.greenleaf@nwicdc.org. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

ON-GOING MONTHLY OPPORTUNITIES

First Friday Open House – 2PM to 5PM

Creative Café on the third Tuesday of every month – 4PM to 6PM [A fun event where artists will take you on a hands-on adventure into the arts]

Create it! Sessions: Once a month, learn something new! Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced skills of all ages are welcome. Second Monday of the Month

Community Art Studios: Studio mentors, Karen and LeAnne, are ready to help you with your project if you need assistance. All ages welcome, adult supervision is required for 12 and younger.

New monthly membership for CWLC’s Community Art Studios is here! For $30 a month you can use our Art Studio during open hours, whatever supplies you need and you get free admission to Create It! Sessions (excluding material fees). Check out our website for more details: www.clearwaterslife.org/art-experiences.

  • Headwaters Music and Arts– [Bemidji]

Headwaters Music and Arts – [Bemidji] After School Year Art Clubs. From September 2022 – May 2023, at Headwaters Music & Arts, 519 Minnesota Ave NW, Bemidji, MN 56601, club participants will be broken up by age participants and meet once a week for quality visual art experiences. Go to https://headwatersmusicandarts.org/youth-art-club for more information or contact info@headwatersmusicandarts.org | 218.444.5606.

COMMUNITY EVENT CALENDARS

Did we miss something you know about? Help us update the information by emailing laura@r2arts.org with your event information!