Art in April!
Happy April, Happy Spring! There are many fun things to do this month, including a free virtual art day at the Duluth Art Institute (registration closes 4/3), a new exhibit opening at the Nordic Center (in person & virtual options available), and outdoor concerts at UMD. Scroll down for details and links!
Poetry – up to 3 poems
Short-Short Fiction – 1 or 2 submissions of up to 500 words
Short Fiction – a single submission of 1,500-2,500 words
Creative Nonfiction – a single submission of 1,500-2,500 words
"First-place winner in each category will receive a prize of $200 and publication on the Lake Superior Writers website. Runner-up in each category will receive a prize of $50.
"The theme is “Lockdown.” We are looking for submissions that explore this theme, and writers can interpret it as broadly as they wish. You might write about the tension found in everyday experiences or the profound struggles faced by people, resulting in a feeling of being in “Lockdown” or actually being in Lockdown. Click link for submission guidelines."
Zentangle on Zoom!
Wednesdays, April 7, 14, 28, 6-8:30 p.m.
Zentangle on Zoom! Foundations
"For the month of April, we will be making Lace Oatmeal Cookies! You can find the recipe we will be using on the Sons of Norway website. RSVP (members) or purchase a $5 ticket (non-members) to receive a Zoom link to the event."
Wednesday, April 21, 6:30 p.m.
Sign Painters
Faythe Levine & Sam Macon, 2015, 65 min
"At a time when most American cityscapes are dominated by computer created mass-produced signage, Sign Painters takes a close look at the past, present, and hopeful future of the hand painted sign industry in the USA. There is some mild language. Watch here"
The Last Ice Merchant
Sandy Patch, 2014, 14 min
"For over 50 years, Baltazar Ushca has harvested the glacial ice of Ecuador’s Mount Chimborazo. His brothers, both raised as ice merchants, have long since retired from the mountain. This is a story of cultural change and how three brothers have adapted to it. Watch here"
High Steel
Julian Biggs, 1965, 14 min
"This short documentary offers a dizzying view of the Mohawk Indians of Kahnawake who work in Manhattan erecting the steel frames of skyscrapers. Famed for their skill in working with steel, the Mohawks demonstrate their nimble abilities in the sky. As a counterbalance, the viewer is also allowed a peek at their quieter community life on the Kahnawake Reserve, in Quebec. Watch here"
Zinema 2.0 Virtual Cinema
"Himmeli, ceiling mobiles, were originally created in Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Estonia, and functioned as good luck charms that were hung from the ceiling in homes to ensure good crops and the fertility of fields. This exhibition and programming at the Nordic Center will shed light on an ancient craft tradition that has survived the ages and that is now flourishing in the spirit of a Nordic craft revival especially in Northern Minnesota, among the Finnish-American community."
"The 1786 Tignon Law of Louisiana was enacted to oppress affluent women of African descent, to decrease their beauty and thereby diffuse their allure to white men. Under the administration of Governor Esteban Rodriguez Miro, women of African descent were forced to cover their hair as an effort to control them, their affluence, beauty and intelligence. However, the headwrap became a symbol of rebellion as women donned their hair with exquisite, colorful scarves, adding jewelry, ribbon and other fine material. The Tignon was and is embraced by women of African descent, proving an occasion to showcase one’s creativity and adaptability."
Ann Magnusson: Personal, Duluth Art Institute, Corridor Gallery, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Painter Ann Magnusson renders portraits that capture her subject’s personalities. Meaningful expressions, genuine smiles, and active postures result in authentic portrayals. Magnusson gravitates to the stories people share, their history, and information from their everyday and treasured objects. From such investigation stems companion pieces revealing their personal space. By focusing on details and examining what people display, Magnusson builds their story."
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.
Calling all Writers!
Lake Superior Writers 2021 Writing Contest: Deadline - Monday, April 12
"Lake Superior Writers is accepting entries in multiple genres for our annual writing contest in the following categories:Poetry – up to 3 poems
Short-Short Fiction – 1 or 2 submissions of up to 500 words
Short Fiction – a single submission of 1,500-2,500 words
Creative Nonfiction – a single submission of 1,500-2,500 words
"First-place winner in each category will receive a prize of $200 and publication on the Lake Superior Writers website. Runner-up in each category will receive a prize of $50.
"The theme is “Lockdown.” We are looking for submissions that explore this theme, and writers can interpret it as broadly as they wish. You might write about the tension found in everyday experiences or the profound struggles faced by people, resulting in a feeling of being in “Lockdown” or actually being in Lockdown. Click link for submission guidelines."
Need a Face Mask?
Mask Force, by Zeitgeist Arts
Buy a Mask / Donate a Mask: "The Zeitgeist Community Mask Force Program allows people who are financially able to purchase masks, while providing mask donations to local organizations using a “buy one, give one” model. The makers are using the mask pattern recommended by Essentia Health, employing a variety of fabrics to keep up with demand. All masks are reusable and machine-washable. A children’s size is also available.
"Donations are headed to local organizations such as the Damiano Center and the American Indian Community Housing Organization. Cost: $10 to buy a mask and donate a mask or donate 2 masks." [Note: Thank you Zeitgeist Arts, Sasha Howell and all the mask makers for making this effort possible.]
Draw with me in April!
Mondays, April 12, 19, 26, 6-8:30 p.m.Zentangle on Zoom!
Wednesdays, April 7, 14, 28, 6-8:30 p.m.
Zentangle on Zoom! Foundations
Wednesday, April 21, 6:30-9 p.m.
Details on all events, and more, below!
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All events are listed in chronological order, where possible. Click on colored text throughout to link to more information.
All events are listed in chronological order, where possible. Click on colored text throughout to link to more information.
Thursday, April 1 - Saturday, April 10, times vary
Easter Egg Paperweight Class, Lake Superior Art Glass, 357 Canal Park Drive
"Lake Superior Art Glass offers two weeks of Easter-egg paperweight classes in their Hot Shop. Create a blown-glass Easter egg from April 1-10. Many times available per day. Prices vary."Wednesdays, April 7, 14, & 21, 12-1 p.m.; 3-4 p.m.
UMD Department of Music Outdoor Concerts, UMD Lot A near the Marshall W. Alworth Planetarium
"Musicians from UMD’s Department of Music return to the live stage in a series of outdoor concert events in April, featuring a variety of instrumental and vocal ensembles.
"Strict venue capacity limits have been established. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. The deadline for pre-registration will be two hours before the event. If space is available, walk-up registrations will be accepted. Full schedule, rain dates, parking details and COVID-19 requirements can be found at tickets.umn.edu."
Friday, April 9, 6-8 p.m.
From Finland to Minnesota: Himmeli with Mary Erickson, Alison Aune, and UMD Art Education Students, The Nordic Center, 23 Lake Avenue
"Strict venue capacity limits have been established. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged. The deadline for pre-registration will be two hours before the event. If space is available, walk-up registrations will be accepted. Full schedule, rain dates, parking details and COVID-19 requirements can be found at tickets.umn.edu."
Wednesdays, April 7, 14, 28, 6-8:30 p.m.
Zentangle on Zoom! Foundations with certified Zentangle (R) teacher Esther Piszczek
For those who are new to the Zentangle method of pattern drawing or who would like to explore the foundations of this method in more detail or who just love to draw on Wednesdays. RSVP required the Monday prior to each class. Class limited to 8 screens. Zoom link will be sent out on the day of class to all registered students.
Cost: Financial Ability: $15-$40; Financial Strain: $0-$15; Click link for a secure payment option PayPal.Me/eternalpossibility
Zentangle on Zoom! Foundations with certified Zentangle (R) teacher Esther Piszczek
For those who are new to the Zentangle method of pattern drawing or who would like to explore the foundations of this method in more detail or who just love to draw on Wednesdays. RSVP required the Monday prior to each class. Class limited to 8 screens. Zoom link will be sent out on the day of class to all registered students.
Cost: Financial Ability: $15-$40; Financial Strain: $0-$15; Click link for a secure payment option PayPal.Me/eternalpossibility
From Finland to Minnesota: Himmeli with Mary Erickson, Alison Aune, and UMD Art Education Students, The Nordic Center, 23 Lake Avenue
"Join the Nordic Center for either a virtual or in-person viewing of our new exhibition, Himmeli: From Finland to Minnesota. Masks and social distancing are required if you choose to join us in person. Virtual viewing will be available on our website." On View: Friday, April 9-Saturday, May 1
Saturday, April 10, 1-3 p.m.
Himmeli: Zoom Workshop with Mary Erickson, Alison Aune, and UMD Art Education Students
"Himmeli making was brought to Minnesota by Finnish Immigrants. In this class you will learn the basic shape used to construct the Keski Pohjanmaa himmeli style which is common on the Iron Range.
"Mary Erickson and Alison Aune will share their knowledge and skills of this artistic tradition in this zoom lecture and workshop. Students will view a slideshow about the history of the himmeli in Finland, and innovations of it today, and then construct a simple himmeli. Click Link to Register and view suggested materials list. Ages 14+; Registration Cost: $25 Nordic Center members, $30 non-members"
Himmeli: Zoom Workshop with Mary Erickson, Alison Aune, and UMD Art Education Students
"Himmeli making was brought to Minnesota by Finnish Immigrants. In this class you will learn the basic shape used to construct the Keski Pohjanmaa himmeli style which is common on the Iron Range.
"Mary Erickson and Alison Aune will share their knowledge and skills of this artistic tradition in this zoom lecture and workshop. Students will view a slideshow about the history of the himmeli in Finland, and innovations of it today, and then construct a simple himmeli. Click Link to Register and view suggested materials list. Ages 14+; Registration Cost: $25 Nordic Center members, $30 non-members"
Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Marketplace, Masonic Lodge, 4731 Gladstone Street (Lakeside)
"At the Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Market you'll be treated to lively music and a friendly atmosphere. Browse a collection of handcrafted clothing and bags, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, photography, personal care products, baby items and much more. Artists are on hand as personal shoppers to help you select just the right one-of a kind gift for every occasion.
Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Marketplace, Masonic Lodge, 4731 Gladstone Street (Lakeside)
"At the Nice Girls of the North Second Saturday Market you'll be treated to lively music and a friendly atmosphere. Browse a collection of handcrafted clothing and bags, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, photography, personal care products, baby items and much more. Artists are on hand as personal shoppers to help you select just the right one-of a kind gift for every occasion.
"We require everyone to wear your mask properly and maintain 6 feet of social distance. We have hand sanitizer available, sanitize our baskets between customers, and monitor to maintain safe capacity numbers. As local infection rates have decreased, we are going back to our central checkout. We will have a limited number of masks for sale if you need one. This location is handicap accessible. Guest Artists: Clover Valley Farms
Saturday, April 10, 3 p.m.
"Join Gudrun for a wee virtual journey to Shetland. Learn about the traditional Shetland Hap, an heirloom item that has been a jumping off point for many of Gudrun's shawl designs over the years. She will demonstrate how to start these shawls using the modern method and also share one of her favorite spit splicing tricks to start a new color exactly where you need it!"Gudrun will be showing you some of her available shawl designs based on hap constructions and she will share a preview of a soon to be released shawl pattern for which you will get a special discount coupon! On top of all that, Gudrun will also give us a sneak peek of her soon to be published book based on knitwear her mum designed in the 70s in Shetland." Cost: $20
Sunday, April 11, 1-3 p.m.
SunFUNday: Himmeli, a Free Live Online Zoom Class
"Learn about the ancient tradition of Himmeli from Finland! Get inspiration to create your own contemporary himmeli in a Zoom workshop! How many diamonds can you make? What materials can you use to add zazzle-dazzle to your unique himmeli mobile? Click the link for a list of suggested materials and RSVP to receive the Zoom link."Mondays, April 12, 19, 26, 6-8:30 p.m.
Zentangle on Zoom! with certified Zentangle (R) teacher Esther Piszczek
A more advanced class for those with some experience with the Zentangle method of pattern drawing or who just want to go for it. RSVP required the Friday prior to each class. Class limited to 8 screens. Zoom link will be sent out on the day of class to all registered students.
Cost: Financial Ability: $15-$40; Financial Strain: $0-$15; Click link for a secure donation/payment option PayPal.Me/eternalpossibility
A more advanced class for those with some experience with the Zentangle method of pattern drawing or who just want to go for it. RSVP required the Friday prior to each class. Class limited to 8 screens. Zoom link will be sent out on the day of class to all registered students.
Cost: Financial Ability: $15-$40; Financial Strain: $0-$15; Click link for a secure donation/payment option PayPal.Me/eternalpossibility
Wednesday, April 14, 6-7 p.m.
Superior Shares, a Free, Virtual Open Mic
"Lake Superior Writers hosts this virtual open mic. Ten 5-minute reading slots are available on a first come, first served basis, with priority given to members of Lake Superior Writers. Participants will be notified ahead of time if they’ve been selected to read.
"Readers are asked to limit adult content and language. Graphic violent or sexual content is prohibited. To register, email writers @ lakesuperiorwriters.org and indicate if you’d like to read. A Zoom link will be sent the day of the event."
Saturday-Sunday, April 17-18, 2 p.m.
Almost Maine, County Seat Theater, 2035 Highway 33 South (on frontage road), Cloquet
Almost Maine, Romantic Comedy, By John Cariani LIVE & On Demand"Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost not in the United States. It’s almost in Canada. And it’s not quite a town, because its residents never got around to getting organized. So it almost doesn’t exist. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend—almost—in this delightful midwinter night’s dream."
Saturday, April 17, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Free ArtDAI, an Online Live Virtual Workshop hosted by the Duluth Art Institute
"Are you ready for the next Free ArtDAI? It will be hosted over Zoom again, with supply kits provided ahead of time. Free ArtDAI includes two surprise art making activities and one movement activity which can be enjoyed by art makers of any age. Adult supervision and assistance is recommended for young participants. This event is free, but registration is required. Registration closes Saturday, April 3."
"Are you ready for the next Free ArtDAI? It will be hosted over Zoom again, with supply kits provided ahead of time. Free ArtDAI includes two surprise art making activities and one movement activity which can be enjoyed by art makers of any age. Adult supervision and assistance is recommended for young participants. This event is free, but registration is required. Registration closes Saturday, April 3."
Saturday, April 17, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Duluth Pottery & Friends: Empty Bowl 2021, Duluth Pottery, 1924 W. Superior Street
Sunday, April 18, 1-3 p.m.
Fika & Slojd: Lace Oatmeal Cookies, an Online Live Virtual Class"Join us for an informal afternoon of online Fika & Slöjd (coffee & crafts)! Follow along with our monthly themed craft, or bring your own. All crafters welcome!
"For the month of April, we will be making Lace Oatmeal Cookies! You can find the recipe we will be using on the Sons of Norway website. RSVP (members) or purchase a $5 ticket (non-members) to receive a Zoom link to the event."
Wednesdays, April 21-May 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Kumihimo: the Art of Japanese Braiding Online Course, an Online Live Virtual Class"Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese technique used to make beautiful cords. Learn a little bit of history about how the braids have been used with Instructor Traudi Bestler, then make two different cords which can end up as bracelets or necklaces. Students will learn how to braid on a kumihimo disk, ways to design and add beads, and how to make a closure without the need for jewelry findings. At the end of class students will have two finished bracelets and the knowledge to design and make more. Students will receive a booklet to download and a kit of materials by mail. This course is open to adults and to youth ages 10 and up registering with an adult. Cost: $110"
Wednesday, April 21, 6:30-9 p.m.
Zentangle (R) & Wine on Zoom!, with Esther Piszczek, Certified Zentangle Teacher
Stay home and draw pretty lines with me! RSVP required to me at episzczek@gmail.com by Monday, April 19, at 12 noon.
Cost: Financial Strain: $0; Financial Ability: $15-$40; Click link for a secure payment option PayPal.Me/eternalpossibility
DSFF and AICHO 2021 Indigenous Film Series, Free Virtual Online Event
"Duluth Superior Film Festival (DSFF), the American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO), and Zeitgeist Arts are happy to bring you this film screening event! Please join our event host Khayman Goodsky (Bois Forte Ojibwe Citizen and filmmaker) for a welcome, viewing of two films (see descriptions below) and discussion/Q&A with our host, Jonathan Thunder and AICHO's Dabinoo'igan Domestic Violence Shelter Director. Free and open to the community. Donations are accepted at registration.
"Duluth Superior Film Festival (DSFF), the American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO), and Zeitgeist Arts are happy to bring you this film screening event! Please join our event host Khayman Goodsky (Bois Forte Ojibwe Citizen and filmmaker) for a welcome, viewing of two films (see descriptions below) and discussion/Q&A with our host, Jonathan Thunder and AICHO's Dabinoo'igan Domestic Violence Shelter Director. Free and open to the community. Donations are accepted at registration.
"Film Synopsis: THE BODY REMEMBERS WHEN THE WORLD BROKE OPEN by Co-writer/directors: Elle-Máijá Tailfeather & Kathleen Hepburn.
"When Áila encounters a young indigenous woman, barefoot and crying on the side of a busy street, she soon discovers that this woman, Rosie, has just escaped a violent assault at the hands of her boyfriend. Áila decides to bring Rosie home with her and over the course of the evening, the two navigate the aftermath of this traumatic event. The film weaves an intricately complex story of a chance encounter between two indigenous women with drastically different lived experiences, navigating the aftermath of domestic abuse.
"TRIGGER WARNING: This film contains strong themes of domestic violence. There is no scene that shows physical violence. If you feel like this may be too difficult to watch, please join us in our Q&A after the film, at around 8:15 p.m., with Jennifer Davey, Director of AICHO's Dabinoo'igan Domestic Violence Shelter.
"The feature film will be preceded by local short film - MAAMAWI - an experimental film by Jonathan Thunder (Red Lake Nation Citizen). The film explores the inter-dimensional connections between a young man and unfamiliar relatives from a not so distant history. The content reflects a link between our current era and the era of the 1956 Indian Relocation act, which was a tool of the United States intended to get American Indians off tribal lands, and to assimilate into the general population of urban areas."
Ongoing Online Events
Banff Mountain Film Festival - online, virtual event
"This year, bring the adventure home! Fluff up your couch cushions, grab a snack of choice, and make sure you have good internet connection, because the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour is going Virtual! Travel to the most remote corners of the world, dive into daring expeditions, and celebrate some of the most remarkable outdoor achievements, all from the comfort of your living room!" On View: Thursday, February 4-Sunday, October 24Every Friday, the Duluth Art Institute uploads a fun online activity. Activities you can download include an I-Spy game, Word Search Puzzles, and a Coloring Sheet.
DAI: Art in Bloom: Send Love. Send Art.
"Connect to your friends and loved ones by sending original art. The Duluth Art Institute offers a unique opportunity to say "I'm thinking about you." DAI Art In Bloom is here to support artists and connection to each other until we can all be together again. Peruse our list of artist's websites with work ranging $20 to $150. Consider sending stunning artwork from these beautifully curated collections. You'll be supporting artists and giving a gift that lasts forever. 100% of the profits go directly to the artists. The artist will mail the original artwork to the recipient with a special note."
In This Place, Broadcast Premiere, WDSE-TV PBS North and live streaming on pbs.org and the PBS Video App.
"From First Nation to First Generation, follow the unique origin and immigration stories of northern Minnesotans as they explore their family histories in this documentary."Virtual Duluth (click Facebook link for a list of daily offerings from local creators)
"A place to post all the upcoming virtual events happening in Duluth by so many of our talented community members. Help us flood the web with helpful community content!"
Winter Virtual Film Festival, hosted by the Northouse Folk School
"Light a fire and snuggle up to some crafty films from around the world. Each week in January we offer up a selection of films from the web that may inspire and entertain."
"Light a fire and snuggle up to some crafty films from around the world. Each week in January we offer up a selection of films from the web that may inspire and entertain."
Sign Painters
Faythe Levine & Sam Macon, 2015, 65 min
"At a time when most American cityscapes are dominated by computer created mass-produced signage, Sign Painters takes a close look at the past, present, and hopeful future of the hand painted sign industry in the USA. There is some mild language. Watch here"
The Last Ice Merchant
Sandy Patch, 2014, 14 min
"For over 50 years, Baltazar Ushca has harvested the glacial ice of Ecuador’s Mount Chimborazo. His brothers, both raised as ice merchants, have long since retired from the mountain. This is a story of cultural change and how three brothers have adapted to it. Watch here"
High Steel
Julian Biggs, 1965, 14 min
"This short documentary offers a dizzying view of the Mohawk Indians of Kahnawake who work in Manhattan erecting the steel frames of skyscrapers. Famed for their skill in working with steel, the Mohawks demonstrate their nimble abilities in the sky. As a counterbalance, the viewer is also allowed a peek at their quieter community life on the Kahnawake Reserve, in Quebec. Watch here"
"Introducing the Zinema 2.0 virtual cinema! Though we cannot be in the theater together during this time, the Zinema remains committed to bringing you quality, thought provoking, independent film. Tune in each week to see what’s playing in one of five categories: new releases, social justice, arts, retro, and international. Your ticket purchase will directly support the Zinema, and you will have the freedom to watch on your own time. Rentals: $12 for 30 days."
Virtual Art Exhibits / Studio Art Tours
April 9-May 1
From Finland to Minnesota: Himmeli with Mary Erickson, Alison Aune, and UMD Art Education Students"Himmeli, ceiling mobiles, were originally created in Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Estonia, and functioned as good luck charms that were hung from the ceiling in homes to ensure good crops and the fertility of fields. This exhibition and programming at the Nordic Center will shed light on an ancient craft tradition that has survived the ages and that is now flourishing in the spirit of a Nordic craft revival especially in Northern Minnesota, among the Finnish-American community."
"Local filmmaker Allen Killian-Moore created this short art film as a complement to artist Tia Keobounpheng's temporary, outdoor, public art sculptural installation. UNWEAVING explores the ways tradition, culture, communities, and individuals are unwoven when we are disconnected from our foundation of ancestral history (i.e. when we don’t know our stories or when truths are suppressed or not acknowledged). A different unweaving can loosen us from perpetuating unconscious pattern behaviors, make sense of our position in the larger social fabric, and enable reweaving a more honest and equitable future. Keobounpheng is a fiscal year 2020 recipient of an Artist Initiative grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board."
"Online art exhibit of new work by mixed media artist Jeffrey Kalstrom created between March 7 and September 30, 2020, and hosted by The Nordic Center of Duluth. The works on exhibit are large scale mixed media wall panels combining mythic imagery and symbolic shapes in optically dazzling patterns."
James Woodfill: CODE Practice
CODE PRACTICE refers to a body of sculptural works created over the last year and was intended to be the subject of a solo exhibition physically installed at Joseph Nease Gallery starting this summer. The novel coronavirus instigated our shift to a virtual web-based platform for an exhibition of his recent stop frame animations and sound work HERE.
CODE PRACTICE refers to a body of sculptural works created over the last year and was intended to be the subject of a solo exhibition physically installed at Joseph Nease Gallery starting this summer. The novel coronavirus instigated our shift to a virtual web-based platform for an exhibition of his recent stop frame animations and sound work HERE.
Minnesota Black Fine Art Show
"Minneapolis based gallery Obsidian Art, Inc., brought together established and emerging Minnesota artists of African descent who created exceptional handmade craftworks, photographs, sculptures, drawings, digital images, and multi-media works. These works traveled in a juried 2019-20 exhibit appearing at Austin Area Arts, Duluth Art Institute, Paramount Center of the Arts in St. Cloud, Twin Rivers Council for the Arts in Mankato, and the exhibition culminated in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport."
"Minneapolis based gallery Obsidian Art, Inc., brought together established and emerging Minnesota artists of African descent who created exceptional handmade craftworks, photographs, sculptures, drawings, digital images, and multi-media works. These works traveled in a juried 2019-20 exhibit appearing at Austin Area Arts, Duluth Art Institute, Paramount Center of the Arts in St. Cloud, Twin Rivers Council for the Arts in Mankato, and the exhibition culminated in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport."
"An online exhibit provided by the Duluth Art Institute reflecting how artists are processing and observing effects of the Covid-19 pandemic."
Chesley Antoinette: Tignon
"Artist Chesley Antoinette is the creator and designer of Cantoinette Studios where she explores wearable art and sculpture. In Tignon, she presents a collection of unique turbans, exhibiting a vast range of color, form and wrapping techniques. The headwraps are accompanied by large scale contemporary photographs and essays providing visual and written historical context to the Tignon Law.
"Artist Chesley Antoinette is the creator and designer of Cantoinette Studios where she explores wearable art and sculpture. In Tignon, she presents a collection of unique turbans, exhibiting a vast range of color, form and wrapping techniques. The headwraps are accompanied by large scale contemporary photographs and essays providing visual and written historical context to the Tignon Law.
"The 1786 Tignon Law of Louisiana was enacted to oppress affluent women of African descent, to decrease their beauty and thereby diffuse their allure to white men. Under the administration of Governor Esteban Rodriguez Miro, women of African descent were forced to cover their hair as an effort to control them, their affluence, beauty and intelligence. However, the headwrap became a symbol of rebellion as women donned their hair with exquisite, colorful scarves, adding jewelry, ribbon and other fine material. The Tignon was and is embraced by women of African descent, proving an occasion to showcase one’s creativity and adaptability."
On View
April 1-May 3
Adam Swanson, Duluth Art Institute, John Steffl Gallery, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Adam Swanson uses bright colors in a soft palette to build vibrant subjects. His paintings create stories that feel playful and imaginary, while the combination of wild animals with technology evokes an environmental commentary."April 1-May 3
Clay Artists at the Duluth Art Institute, John Steffl Gallery, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Throughout the pandemic artist have continued to create new work, pushing beyond the current barriers of isolation and unrest, finding solace despite feeling thrown from normalcy. To celebrate ceramicists resiliency, tenacity, creativity and skill, the Duluth Art Institute is excited and proud to present a selection of work created by the DAI Lincoln Park Building Ceramic Artists."
April 1-May 30
Harrison Halker Heinks: The Visual Voice of Autism, Duluth Art Institute, George Morrison Gallery, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Minnesota artist Harrison Halker Heinks examines reflective surfaces in his photography. By capturing multiple planes with one image, Heinks builds an experience where viewers can simultaneously look through, at, and in front of the subject. Uniting a single image from several layers evokes emotion with Heinks who intends to express how it feels to live with autism."
April 1-June 1
"Painter Ann Magnusson renders portraits that capture her subject’s personalities. Meaningful expressions, genuine smiles, and active postures result in authentic portrayals. Magnusson gravitates to the stories people share, their history, and information from their everyday and treasured objects. From such investigation stems companion pieces revealing their personal space. By focusing on details and examining what people display, Magnusson builds their story."
March 26-June 26
A Warm Reset, Joseph Nease Gallery, 23 W. 1st Street
"A Warm Reset - a warm pallette, some quiet and introspective works, an easing into a better future. Includes: New and recent work by gallery and invited artists - Tara Austin, David Bowen, James Brinsfield, Cary Esser, Liz James, Matthew Kluber, Kathy McTavish, Allen Killian-Moore, and Tim White. Media: paintings, photographs, film, ceramics, digital animation, installation." Hours by Appointment Only: Thursday-Saturday, 12-4 p.m. Artist Talk: Saturday, April 10. Contact Joseph Nease Gallery for details.Winter 2021
Transitions, Duluth Art Institute, Depot Great Hall, 506 W. Michigan Street
"Transitions is a temporary installation of work for sale. Transitions offers you the unique ability to purchase artwork without waiting the length of the exhibition to take the work home. As work is purchased, new work will transition into the space left behind, making this exhibition dynamic and ever-changing. Transitions features artists recently and currently exhibiting in the Duluth Art Institute Galleries. Artists currently represented include Shaun Chosa, Michael Dahmen, Susanna Gaunt, Kristen Kaas, Sue Rauschenfels, Alyssa Swanson, and Blair Treuer. Come see work you will love on your walls. You can also view the work in our eStore.
"Transitions is a temporary installation of work for sale. Transitions offers you the unique ability to purchase artwork without waiting the length of the exhibition to take the work home. As work is purchased, new work will transition into the space left behind, making this exhibition dynamic and ever-changing. Transitions features artists recently and currently exhibiting in the Duluth Art Institute Galleries. Artists currently represented include Shaun Chosa, Michael Dahmen, Susanna Gaunt, Kristen Kaas, Sue Rauschenfels, Alyssa Swanson, and Blair Treuer. Come see work you will love on your walls. You can also view the work in our eStore.
Learn a Tangle!
Rayga, by Dutch CZT Anoeska Waardenburg, is a lovely band tangle that is easier to draw than it looks. 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.
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 my art in the Twin Ports:
Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior (ceramics, notecards, playing cards)
Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street (next to Starbucks) (full gallery)
Master Framing Gallery, 1431 London Road, Duluth (notecards)
Thank yous!
Art on the Planet, 1413 Tower Avenue, Superior (ceramics, notecards, playing cards)
Duluth Fine Pianos, 331 W. Superior Street (next to Starbucks) (full gallery)
Master Framing Gallery, 1431 London Road, Duluth (notecards)
Thank yous!
Thank you to Ed Newman for interviewing me for this article: Zentangle goes Zoom with Esther Piszczek, by Ed Newman, Ennyman's Territory, July 4, 2020.
Thank you to Amanda Hunter at Joseph Nease Gallery who put together 59 second videos for all participating artists of the Downtown Duluth Arts Walk's first virtual tour on March 27. Here is a link to the video she made of my work.
Thank you to Brian Barber of Perfect Duluth Day for featuring my artwork in January 2019: Perfect Duluth Day Selective Focus: Esther Piszczek
Other Places To Find Art
Where to find more local art events and profiles: Ed Newman's blog: Ennyman's Territory.
Connect with me on Facebook and stay updated on my classes/events on my web page, Eternal Possibility, and my Zentangle.com page, Esther Piszczek!
Thank you to Ed Newman, Perfect Duluth Day, and all others who contribute to this list.
Where to find more local art events and profiles: Ed Newman's blog: Ennyman's Territory.
Connect with me on Facebook and stay updated on my classes/events on my web page, Eternal Possibility, and my Zentangle.com page, Esther Piszczek!
Thank you to Ed Newman, Perfect Duluth Day, and all others who contribute to this list.