LRAC Funded Event

Filtering by: LRAC Funded Event
Jan
12
to Mar 12

LRAC EXHIBITION: "Tranquility & Turmoil" @ Main Gallery, Lake Region Arts Council, Fergus Falls

  • Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC) (map)
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EVENT LINK: https://lrac4.org/exhibit-schedule

FEE: Free and Open to the Public

LRAC EXHIBITION:
Tranquility & Turmoil

Lake Region Arts Council Main Gallery Opens New Exhibition
Tranquility & Turmoil

Opening: Monday, January 12, 2026
Closes: Thursday, March 12th, 2026
Location: Lake Region Arts Council Main Gallery
Joint Artist Reception: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 5:00–6:30PM
Artist Talks Begin: 5:30 PM
Reception held jointly with Solo Exhibition – Jammie Niemeyer

The Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC) Main Gallery is pleased to announce the opening of Tranquility & Turmoil, a new group exhibition opening Monday, January 12, 2026. The exhibition explores the dynamic tension between calm and disruption, revealing how growth, insight, and transformation often emerge from uncertainty as much as from intention.

Through ceramic sculpture, suspended installation, and painting, Tranquility & Turmoil brings together the work of Blayze Buseth, Desiree Logan, Sam Busko, and Kiley Busko—artists who examine fragility, pressure, and imbalance within both natural and emotional landscapes.

Blayze Buseth’s ceramic practice embraces experimentation and imperfection, pushing clay to the edge of cracking, remixing materials, and allowing flaws to become integral to the final form. His sculptural vessels take on organic, elemental qualities reminiscent of wood grain, tree bark, eroded earth, and landscapes shaped by time and pressure—embodying turmoil as a necessary force in creation.

Desiree Logan contributes sculptural elements that reflect human presence within imagined environments. Drawing visual parallels to traditional shan shui landscape painting, her forms suggest emotional terrains that bridge inner human experience with contemplative, otherworldly spaces.

In dialogue with these works, Sam Busko presents a suspended flock of ceramic birds that embody freedom, movement, and wildness. Some birds are partially or fully coated in a dark, toxic-appearing substance that weighs each form down differently. As the coating increases, the birds become distorted and unrecognizable, prompting the question: if a bird loses the ability to fly, can it still be considered free?

Kiley Busko’s watercolor paintings extend this conversation by exploring tranquility alongside vulnerability in the natural world. Her vivid depictions of birds capture moments of stillness and grace, inviting quiet observation. This serenity is unsettled by more confronting works—portraits of injured or deceased wildlife rendered through expressive inks and gestural washes—exposing loss, fragility, and environmental consequence.

Together, the works form a shared landscape where beauty and disturbance coexist rather than cancel one another out. Across ceramic vessels, sculptural forms, and painted imagery, Tranquility & Turmoil invites viewers to reflect on how imbalance, pressure, and fragility shape both the natural world and human experience.

Gallery Hours:
Monday – Thursday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed Friday – Sunday
(Please call or email in advance to ensure the gallery is open on the day of your visit.)

About the Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC):
The Lake Region Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and encouraging the vitality of the arts in west central Minnesota. LRAC provides grant opportunities, workshops, technical assistance, and publishes a monthly ArtsNews newsletter for artists and arts organizations in the counties of Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, and Wilkin.

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Jan
12
to Mar 12

LRAC EXHIBITION: "Solo Exhibition by Jammie Niemeyer" @ Office Gallery, Lake Region Arts Council, Fergus Falls

  • Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://lrac4.org/exhibit-schedule

FEE: Free and Open to the Public

LRAC EXHIBITION:
Solo Exhibition by Jammie Niemeyer

Lake Region Arts Council Office Gallery Presents
Solo Exhibition by Jammie Niemeyer

Exhibition Dates: January 12 – March 12, 2026
Location: Lake Region Arts Council Office Gallery
Opening Reception: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 5:00–6:30 PM
Joint Reception with: Tranquility & Turmoil (LRAC Main Gallery)

The Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC) Office Gallery is pleased to present a solo exhibition by artist Jammie Niemeyer, on view from January 12 through March 12, 2026. An opening reception will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 6:30 PM, in conjunction with the Main Gallery exhibition Tranquility & Turmoil. The reception is free and open to the public.

Jammie Niemeyer’s art practice is deeply rooted in lived experience. A self-taught artist, Niemeyer has been drawing since childhood, often using art as a means of focus, expression, and understanding. Later in life, discovering they are full-spectrum dyslexic further affirmed the importance of art and music as essential tools for learning, processing, and communication.

Niemeyer’s creative journey began with small painted scenes on blown eggs and hobby-based artwork, gradually expanding into murals in churches and private homes, including a large-scale doodle mural along the Riverwalk in Granite Falls, Minnesota. Their work has also included a doodle silhouette series honoring influential Black Americans, larger sculptural works such as Lake Goddess, and recent explorations in copper sculpture. Over the past three years, wood-burning and leather burning have become central to Niemeyer’s practice, alongside ongoing teaching in both doodling and wood-burning.

Stylistically, Niemeyer’s work balances freedom and precision. Doodling provides a spontaneous, expressive outlet, while woodburning and leather burning offer a meditative, disciplined process grounded in focus on pressure, pace, and patience. Together, these methods reflect both the energetic and contemplative dimensions of their creative voice.

In addition to visual art, Niemeyer engages in public speaking as a form of storytelling and social reflection. Drawing from experiences of growing up in an all-white community and family, they share narratives that address both joy and harm, offering space for honesty, understanding, and connection. Through art and words, Niemeyer gives voice to perspectives that are often left unheard.

For Niemeyer, art is not simply a practice—it is a way of life.

Gallery Hours:
Monday – Thursday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Closed Friday – Sunday
(Please call or email in advance to ensure the gallery is open on the day of your visit.)

About the Lake Region Arts Council (LRAC):
The Lake Region Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and encouraging the vitality of the arts in west central Minnesota. LRAC provides grant opportunities, workshops, technical assistance, and publishes a monthly ArtsNews newsletter for artists and arts organizations in the counties of Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Otter Tail, Pope, Stevens, Traverse, and Wilkin.

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Mar
6
7:00 PM19:00

LIVE MUSIC: "Robb Justice" @ Evansville Art Center

EVENT LINK: https://www.evansvilleartcenter.org/events/robb-justice

FEE: Free will donations accepted gratefully

Robb Justice — Evansville Art Center

Friday, March 6, 7-9 PM

Robb Justice will take the stage on Friday, March 6 opening up our First Friday Concert Series for 2026.

Musician and songwriter Robb Justice has always been inspired by a variety of musical styles—old country, blues, rock and Americana—almost as much as he has been inspired by the untrammeled landscapes he tends to surround himself with. Robb Justice’s music runs the gamut from rock to country and blues, always leaving room for a few pleasant surprises.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the music starts at 7:00 p.m.  Bring a treat to share at intermission if you wish.  Beverages will be provided.

There is no charge for this event.  Donations are always gratefully accepted. 

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Mar
14
7:00 PM19:00

LIVE MUSIC: "Jordan Messerole" @ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center

  • New York Mills Regional Cultural Center (map)
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EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Jordan Messerole

Saturday, March 14, 2026, 7-9 PM

From the depths of his midwestern roots, multi-award winning songwriter Jordan Messerole writes songs that vary as greatly as the wild flowers in the native tall grass. Messerole does frequently write about that flora, as well as the fauna of the region. Not to mention all of its wild life. Not one to shy away from subject matter, the songs can frequently meander across the lines between love and loss, success and failure, or life and death. Messerole masterfully blends the sounds of his guitars with thoughtful lyrics, an engaging stage presence, and often rack harmonica to tell gritty American tales that are bound to evoke emotion from all of his listeners.

Learn more: www.jordanmesserole.com

2026 Winter/Spring Concert Series

Enjoy original live music in a unique listening-room setting at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. This Winter/Spring Concert Series features a wide range of music styles in the Cultural Center’s gallery space, surrounded by visual art and excellent acoustics. Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Concerts run February–May 2026, with performances by Caitlin Robertson & Wildrose Fox, Jordan Messerole, Aaron Simmons, Zach Thomas, Clayton Ryan Duo, and more, plus special collaborations with New York Mills schools and Niijii Radio. Most concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7:00 p.m.), with general admission seating. Light refreshments and a cash bar are available at most events.

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Mar
27
7:00 PM19:00

LIVE MUSIC: "Aaron Simmons" @ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center

  • New York Mills Regional Cultural Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Aaron Simmons

Friday, March 27, 2026, 7-9 PM

Originally from Stewartville, Minnesota, Aaron Simmons is a country singer-songwriter known for energetic performances and heartfelt storytelling. With a down-to-earth style and strong work ethic, he’s spent the past decade building a loyal fanbase nationwide. In 2024, Aaron was named Male Vocalist of the Year by the Midwest Country Music Organization. Aaron’s songs capture the joys of love, the pain of loss, and the power of community. With strong small-town values and a close connection to fans, he continues to make his mark in modern country music. Wherever he plays, Aaron’s passion for storytelling and genuine connection with audiences set him apart.

Learn more: www.aaronsimmonsmusic.com/

2026 Winter/Spring Concert Series

Enjoy original live music in a unique listening-room setting at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. This Winter/Spring Concert Series features a wide range of music styles in the Cultural Center’s gallery space, surrounded by visual art and excellent acoustics. Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Concerts run February–May 2026, with performances by Caitlin Robertson & Wildrose Fox, Jordan Messerole, Aaron Simmons, Zach Thomas, Clayton Ryan Duo, and more, plus special collaborations with New York Mills schools and Niijii Radio. Most concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7:00 p.m.), with general admission seating. Light refreshments and a cash bar are available at most events.

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Apr
9
5:30 PM17:30

ARTIST LECTURE: "Plein Air Painting | Walking in the Footsteps of the Impressionist & Post-Impressionist Masters" @ Detroit Lakes Public Library

EVENT LINK: https://larl.org

FEE: Free

Plein Air Painting: Walking in the Footsteps of the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Masters

An Informational Lecture By Professional Artist Katie Lou Muzquiz

In this informative lecture, local oil painter Katie Lou Muzquiz will introduce herself, and speak about her experience painting the last 30+ years. She'll discuss a brief description of what plein air painting is, equipment needed, and talk about her time studying the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masters while abroad in Paris, Arles, Avignon, France and time spent studying in Amsterdam, Netherlands in 2024. She will include recent experiences of her time studying art in Rome, Pompeii, Florence, Ravenna, and Venice in Italy and Istanbul, Turkey in March 2026. Lastly, she will conclude with a brief demonstration oil painting.

This event is free and open to the public.



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Apr
18
7:00 PM19:00

LIVE MUSIC: "Zach Thomas" @ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center

  • New York Mills Regional Cultural Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Zach Thomas

Saturday, April 18, 2026, 7-9 PM

After debuting in New York Mills at Pickletoberfest 2025, ZACH IS BACK at the Cultural Center for a full ORIGINALS show! Hailing from the small town of Wendell, Minnesota, Zach Thomas is a musician whose powerful voice and honest lyrics resonate with fans across genres. A 2023 Midwest Country Music Organization “Male Vocalist of the Year” nominee, Zach’s passion for music is evident in every performance. With a spirit that can’t be tamed and a talent that won’t be held back, Zach Thomas is a name you won’t forget.

Learn more: www.zachthomaslive.com/

2026 Winter/Spring Concert Series

Enjoy original live music in a unique listening-room setting at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. This Winter/Spring Concert Series features a wide range of music styles in the Cultural Center’s gallery space, surrounded by visual art and excellent acoustics. Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Concerts run February–May 2026, with performances by Caitlin Robertson & Wildrose Fox, Jordan Messerole, Aaron Simmons, Zach Thomas, Clayton Ryan Duo, and more, plus special collaborations with New York Mills schools and Niijii Radio. Most concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7:00 p.m.), with general admission seating. Light refreshments and a cash bar are available at most events.

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Apr
23
2:30 PM14:30

COMMUNITY CELEBRATION: "We’ve Got You Covered | Rick Kagigebi & Eliza Klarer" @ Gizhiigin Arts Incubator, Mahnomen, MN

EVENT LINK: https://www.gizhiigin.org

FEE: Free

We’ve Got You Covered | Rick Kagigebi & Eliza Klarer

A celebration of the appliquéd mural blankets created during their apprenticeship year.

Thursday, April 23, 2026, 2:30 - 6 PM

Hosted by Gizhiigin Arts Incubator | 701 E Jefferson Ave, Mahnomen, MN

  • 2:30 PM Regional Arts Networking | snacks and beverages

  • 3-4 PM McKnight Fellowship Info Session

  • 4-6 PM Artist Reception

Indigenous Foods catered by Chef Edward Rodriguez

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Apr
30
7:00 PM19:00

LIVE MUSIC: "Clayton Ryan Duo" @ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center

  • New York Mills Regional Cultural Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Clayton Ryan Duo

Thursday, April 30, 2026, 7-9 PM

Minnesota’s  Clayton Ryan is made of a different kind of soil. With no streaming presence, label backing, or financial support, he has honed his powerful, homegrown voice in his own Midwestern way, building a fanbase one by one from stages and honkytonks across the country. Despite his flyover-state upbringing, the singer and songwriter has grown strong roots in the music industry, and his work as a writer, performer, and multi-instrumentalist in LA and Nashville has put his songs in TV and movies including NASCAR, Walker, NFL Sunday Night Football, and The Outdoor Channel, and landed the electric performer on stages with artists including John Morgan, John Michael Montgomery, Jo Dee Messina, Collin Raye,  Flatland Cavalry, and Liam St John. ​

Learn more: www.claytonryan.com/

2026 Winter/Spring Concert Series

Enjoy original live music in a unique listening-room setting at the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center. This Winter/Spring Concert Series features a wide range of music styles in the Cultural Center’s gallery space, surrounded by visual art and excellent acoustics. Thanks to support from the Lake Region Arts Council, all concerts are Pay What You Can, open to all, and no tickets are required.

Concerts run February–May 2026, with performances by Caitlin Robertson & Wildrose Fox, Jordan Messerole, Aaron Simmons, Zach Thomas, Clayton Ryan Duo, and more, plus special collaborations with New York Mills schools and Niijii Radio. Most concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7:00 p.m.), with general admission seating. Light refreshments and a cash bar are available at most events.

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May
20
10:00 AM10:00

COMMUNITY EVENT: "Celebrating Cultures" @ New York Mills Regional Sculpture Park

  • New York Mills Regional Sculpture Park (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Free

Celebrating Cultures

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Join us for the 6th Annual Celebrating Cultures, a vibrant, family-friendly event that brings together community members of all backgrounds for an evening of art, music, food, and cultural exchange! This community gathering is co-hosted by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center and Niijii Radio, White Earth.

Whether you’ve attended in years past or this is your first time, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, welcoming celebration of cultures in New York Mills.

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Feb
21
10:00 AM10:00

LIVE PERFORMANCES | VISUAL ARTS: "Fine Arts Day – NYM School Collaboration" @ New York Mills Regional Cultural Center

  • New York Mills Regional Cultural Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

EVENT LINK: https://www.kulcher.org/2026-winter-spring-concert-series-pay-what-you-can/

FEE: Free

Fine Arts Day – NYM School Collaboration

Saturday, February 21, 2026, 10 AM - 8 PM

Collaborative celebration of 25th anniversary of the New York Mills Public School Auditorium and many years of Cultural Center and School partnerships. Free to attend and all are welcome!

Planned schedule of events:

  • 10am-3pm @ NYMRCC: Elementary Art Display & Interactive Art Activities

  • 3-5pm @ NYMRCC: Performances by TBD school groups

  • 5-6pm @ NYM School: Meal & Art displayed at school

  • 6-6:30pm @ NYM School: Program welcome in Auditorium

  • 6:30-8pm @ NYM School Auditorium: Performances by NYMHS Choir & Band and Concordia College Band

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