ArtMatters Newsletter July

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

ArtMatters Newsletter | July 2020

Saturday and Appointment Shopping

Come to the Arts Center! Set an appointment to shop the ACCC Arts Center by sending an email to giftshop@artsofcarvercounty.org. We will not be open Saturday, July 4th. Enjoy your Independence Day celebrations! We are open on Saturdays for limited hours, depending on volunteer availability. If you see the door open, come on in!

Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook where we showcase items in the Arts Center for sale.

We are following CDC guidelines in maintaining a safe space. Please wear a mask and maintain social distance. We will provide a way to sanitize your hands and can have up to 6 people at a time in the shop. We hope to see you soon.

**Announcing Volume VI of The Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County CD**

The Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County, Volume VI CD is finished and we are waiting for the finished product from the duplicator. This year we have 24 songwriters featured. The first song on the CD was written by Grace Bury in 1942. Grace was a piano teacher in Chaska for many years. The recording of her song was done by her son John Bury and his trio featuring Sue Drude on vocals in the early 70’s. It still sounds fresh and hip today. A lot of the music on the CD was written in 2020 with artists from age 18 to 72. Watch our website and email for the official announcement of when and where you can purchase the CD. Thank you to Steve Kelzer for your continued work to produce this valuable ACCC project. We all are looking forward to hearing the recordings! Steve Kelzer, music@artsofcarvercounty.org.

View past CDs

ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal

Have you been writing, creating music or visual art during our time of sheltering at home? We’d love to help you share your work with a larger audience. To participate, all you need to do is to send your work, following the guidelines for submission, to the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal, an interdisciplinary collection of Music, Literature, and Visual Art.Take a look at the wonderful contributions we have already published on our website and send us your inspiration today. The guidelines for submission can be found on our website.

Haikus for Healing

#Haikus4Healing

For those of you who are “sometimes writers,” we’d love to have you submit a haiku for our ACCC Facebook page, use #haikus4healing on your post. Have some fun with this one. Write a haiku on your sidewalk, take a picture, and post it on https://www.facebook.com/Artsincarvercounty/.

Welcome New Board Member

We are excited to welcome Amy Stender to the ACCC Board. She will serve as Literary Liaison working with the Literary Committee to expand opportunities for writers in our area. Amy is a Minnesota Book Award-nominated author of Relic Chosen: Magic and Madness (North Star Press, St. Cloud), Through the Woods and Next Weekend (Lulu Publishing). She began writing at a young age and never thought to stop. She graduated from Concordia University, St. Paul, with a BA in Psychology but never strayed far from her artistic and literary passions. Amy is currently working on a rural cozy mystery series, the first book Farmed & Dangerous, soon to be released from Fox Pointe Publishing. A native Minnesotan who grew up in Chaska, MN, this “city girl” now lives with her husband, their daughter, a 15lb cat, & 100 dairy cows on their farm in Norwood Young America. Please join us in welcoming Amy Stender to the board.

Submit a Nomination or Application for the ACCC Board of Directors

Treasurer: Are you good with numbers and want to volunteer your time? We are seeking an ideal energetic candidate for Treasurer on our Board of Directors. This is a great way to get to do something you love, be immersed in art and are able to stay home while still being effective. If you feel you are a good fit, please apply online, link below. For questions, please contact Cynthia Anderson, info@artsofcarvercounty.org

Members at Large: Seeking artists and supporters of the arts interested in being on the Board of Directors to help navigate the new norms that challenge our organization and to bring focus on the arts. If you believe in the arts and want to help support artists, writers, and musicians in the county through the Arts Consortium, please apply today, or if you know someone who is passionate about the arts, please nominate them, and we will send them an invitation to apply.

Read about the Board of Directors

Hello Members

So many things have changed over the past few months, but art continues to unite Carver County through creative expression and engagement. Visiting the ACCC website and updating your Member Profile are two great ways to stay connected while we’re all apart. The ACCC is busy developing new ways of connecting you to newer audiences. Stay current and remember to renew your membership.

Want to join us? Learn more about ACCC Membership Benefits or reach out to Beth Billstrom at membership@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Membership Info

ArtMatters Newsletter June 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

ArtMatters Newsletter Volume 10 Issue 4 | June 2020

Greetings

The ACCC Arts Center Gallery and Gift Shop located here in beautiful downtown Victoria is going to reopen it’s doors on Wednesday June 3rd on an appointment basis. Connect with us. We can arrange for a pick-up or we invite you to come in person to our Gift Shop. Our volunteer base is currently limited due to CoVid-19 so we will accommodate opening as much as possible during this time with pre-planning. If you would like to shop our store, please schedule an appointment, and as always, if our doors are open, we welcome you to come in. Send your request to giftshop@artsofcarvercounty.org.

We will be following the State of Minnesota’s Guidelines to Reopening Business. We will have masks, gloves, sanitizers and visuals to help keep you safe.

During the break we have created the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal, a place for you to share images of your works of visual art, short stories, poems, music and more. Please go to our website and submit your entries online. We welcome young to young at heart to take part in this year long expression of life as we feel it, see it and know it, in the new norm. We invite you to become part of the story. Join us.

Create on and Stay Safe,

Cynthia Anderson
President

Email your Gift Shop questions to GiftShop@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Promoting You on Social +

The growing consumption of information and the increased screen time many are experiencing has led us into bringing more visuals of the artwork available for sale at our gallery and gift shop to the public platforms. We continue to promote our Artists and their artwork via Facebook and Instagram. We have space to accept in new work which enables us to promote new and exciting finds for our followers. If you would like to add to the interest and have your work featured in our posts, please let us know about your new creations and how we can work together. Each month we will also showcase artist members through articles in the local newspapers. Contact us at giftshop@artsofcarvercounty.org.

ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal

Have you been writing, creating music or visual art during the pandemic? Would you like to share your work with a larger audience? We’d love to have you submit what you have created for the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal, an interdisciplinary collection of Music, Literature, and Visual Art. We are accepting submissions in written, photo, song or video form. Take a look at the wonderful contributions we have already published on our website and send us your inspiration today. The guidelines for submission are on our website.

Janet Brose Masks Ted Hajnasiewicz

#Haikus4Healing

For those of you who are “sometimes writers,” we’d love to have you submit a haiku for our ACCC Facebook page, use #haikus4healing on your post. Have some fun with this one. Write a haiku on your sidewalk, take a picture, and post it on https://www.facebook.com/Artsincarvercounty.

Submit a Nomination or Application for the ACCC Board of Directors

The ACCC is seeking a writer to serve as Literary Liaison on the Board. If you are interested, please complete a board application on our website, link below. If you have questions, please contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin, literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Treasurer: Are you good with numbers and want to volunteer your time? We are seeking an ideal energetic candidate for Treasurer on our Board of Directors. This is a great way to get to do something you love, be immersed in art and are able to stay home while still being effective. If you feel you are a good fit, please apply online, link below. For questions, please contact Cynthia Anderson, info@artsofcarvercounty.org

Member at Large: Seeking artists and artists at heart interested in being on the Board of Directors to help navigate the new norms that challenge our organization and to bring focus on the arts. If you feel you are a good person to help create that change, we welcome you to apply today or nominate someone you know who might be interested.

ACCC Membership

Not an ACCC Member? Consider joining! Our Membership page lists all the benefits and opportunities we offer our Members.

If you are a Member, please take a minute to log into your ACCC account and review your Membership. You can see when you joined and when your Membership is up for renewal. We automatically send you reminder emails before your due date. Membership questions can be directed to our Membership Coordinator, Beth Billstrom at membership@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Go to our Account page to access your Membership info as well as your Directory Listing. Keep it up-to-date. Be sure to include your social media accounts as we have been promoting our Member artists on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Volunteer Opportunities with the ACCC

The Arts Consortium of Carver County Volunteers are working diligently behind the scenes on some exciting new opportunities for 2020. Volunteer and work to bring the arts to the people of your community. We seek a wide range of strengths and talents, art experience not required. We are actively looking for additional Members for our Board of Directors to fill several positions and for people to serve on a committee, special project or participate in new initiatives. Volunteer Form.

ArtMatters Newsletter May 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletter, News

ArtMatters Newsletter Volume 10 Issue 4 | May 2020

Greetings to You

Every Arts organization is grappling with the situations we are faced with during this time of uncertainty. We are all reaching out to change our modes of operation and continue in other ways that we can connect. We have had to cancel many of our activities at the Arts Center and our events to come due to CoVid 19, but we are striving to bring a new breath of virtual programming to your table. With this in our minds we hope to add that much needed breath of fresh air to your day and look forward to the interaction between the artists, writers, musicians and members at large as we explore, express and document this change in normalcy and life as we know it. We are introducing the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal with this issue.

Our hearts go out to the people who have been affected by this unprecedented global health event that is currently unfolding before us. We appreciate the healthcare workers, communities, governments and those on the front lines, locally and globally working to best contain this pandemic. We keep this in our minds as we plan for the future.

We are set to reopen on the 20^th of May as the State of MN’s #stayinplace order is lifted. With this, I want to assure you we have also prepared ACCC set guidelines for our volunteers and our visitors to the Arts Center and are vigilantly monitoring the CoVid19 situation closely. We want to make sure we are diligent in keeping everyone safe and ensure a healthy environment for all. We also will continue social distancing at the Arts Center during phase one of reopening and we plan to follow the State guidelines for everyone’s benefit and safety.

Please take some time out of your schedule to visit us online and in person, join us virtually or submit your perspective of these uncharted waters as we make our way into the future. We have wonderful gift ideas for the special people in your life. We have plenty of space to roam our Gallery and Gift Shop in person. We can also curate gift items for you ahead of time virtually and deliver to you curbside for your convenience. Contact us at giftshop @artsofcarvercounty.com for help with your gift lists today. Just let us know how we can serve you through the Arts.

Stay Healthy and Be Well. Cynthia Anderson, President

Announcing the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal

Send us Your Literary Work, Images of Your Visual Arts, Your Music! The ACCC is creating a very special project called the ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal. This will be a collection of creative work from artists, writers, musicians and songwriters, and others in the region as well as an historical record of the abounding creativity in Carver County during these uncertain times. We will add to it over the course of 2020 as we adjust to these times.

We invite all Visual Artists, Writers, Songwriters, and Musicians, young and young at heart to submit your responses to the COVID- 19 pandemic. Your work will be published on the ACCC website as part of our ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal page. Your creative expression will become part of a collective work expressing your thoughts, emotions, inspirations, etc. throughout the year. The journal will provide an artistic perspective on what is happening during this time. See our Call for Submissions for instructions.

This is a FREE opportunity. If you would like to support activities like this and other activities of the ACCC, please consider making a DONATION today. Thank you for your support.

Lots of Literary News

2020 Poetry Contest Results Announced: Check out our website to read and hear the winning poems. Entries were reviewed by six local poets and winners were chosen by Minnesota Poet Laureate and Carver County resident, Joyce Sutphen. Thank you to all the judges. The decisions were difficult because there were so many good poems submitted. Thanks to all of you who participated.

In this round of the contest we discovered that poetry can be a family undertaking.There are winning entries from the Van Hefty, Yidnekachew, and Awes families. We also especially appreciated the teachers who submitted their students’ work this year. They included Virginia Jackson, Amy McGinnis, and Jennifer Williams.Thank you! Entries were primarily from Carver County but came from as far away as Florida, Texas, and England. Congratulations to all the winners and to those who took Honorable Mention. Each one of you inspires us!

Here are the names of winners and Honorable Mentions: Students Grades K-2: Charlie Van Hefty, Award of Excellence. Students Grades 3-5: Alex Van Heftey, First Place; Mackenzie Jensen, Second Place; Tatum Luedke, Third Place, Reese Marie Slechta, Honorable Mention; Teshan Liyanage, Honorable Mention. Students Grades 6-8: Adonai Yidnekachew, First Place; Yabsera Yidnekashew, Second Place. Students Grades 9-12: Jade Evans, First Place; Henry Awes, Second Place; Reeti Thakkar, Third Place; Robert Jensen, Honorable Mention. Adult Carver County Residents: Angela Hunt, First Place; Jen Anderson, Second Place, Maria Awes, Third Place; Rob Luke, Honorable Mention; Jillian Van Hefty, Honorable Mention. Adult Non Residents: Tim J. Brennan, First Place; Vicky A. King, Second Place; Jeannie L. Piekos, Third Place; A. Carol Scott, Honorable Mention; Laura L. Hansen, Honorable Mention.

Call For Writers: Would you like to share the poetry and literary prose you have been writing while you shelter in place? We are starting an ACCC Pandemic Arts Journal, and we encourage you to submit your work in written, video or audio form. In fact, we would especially encourage you to make a video of you reading your work, upload it on YouTube, and submit it as directed on the website. If you don’t know how to do that, there are many places on the internet to find out. Check out the website for details on how to submit. Use #ACCCPandemicArtsJournal if you post it on your social media accounts.

Haikus for Healing: Want to lighten someone’s day? If you write a haiku in chalk on a sidewalk (where permitted) or post a haiku in your yard, take a picture and post it on the ACCC Facebook and Instagram pages along with #ACCCHaikus4Healing. A haiku is three lines of poetry with 5, 7, 5 syllables on the first, second, and third lines respectively. Wouldn’t it be fun to make someone smile reading poetry!
ACCC Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Artsincarvercounty/
ACCC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artsofcarvercounty/

Literary Liaison: Are you interested in serving on the board of the Arts Consortium as the next Literary Liaison? You will be working with an active literary committee and helping to elevate the visibility of literary work as one of the thriving arts in our county. If you are interested, please fill out an application for the board, indicating your interest in becoming the next literary liaison. If you have questions, you may contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin at literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Music News

The latest Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County CD is being completed and will include 20+ contributions. We think this is the best one so far! We will have CDs and the songs available for download on the Bandcamp website along with all of the previous CDs. The CD Release Concert is set for June 18th at 6:30pm, but is pending further notice from The City of Chaska. We will keep you updated. Send your ACCC Music questions to Steve Kelzer at music@artsofcarvercounty.org. Visit our CD page.

Barn Quilts of Carver County MN Offers Support During COVID-19 by Barb Hone, Janet Fahey and Suzanne Thiesfeld

The Arts Consortium of Carver County, a 501c(3) nonprofit organization, was the fiscal agent for the Barn Quilts project in Carver County.

What began in 2011 as a community-wide, public art project – continues as one during this unprecedented time. This year, the project celebrates its 10 Year Anniversary. Throughout this time, barn quilts have represented Carver County’s heritage and families. While the 10 Year celebration has been postponed due to COVID-19, the project has stepped up to help our community: Families, teachers and students. Barb Hone, Janet Fahey & Suzanne Thiesfeld, all original members of the Barn Quilt Project, have come together to offer unique ways to stay connected – yet apart.

We invite you to see the Barn Quilts from different perspectives. We have created barn quilt education, ideas for Independent Study related to art, literature, history, math and agriculture. Free resources, self-guided tour map and curriculum for teachers, students and citizens are available on the Barn Quilt MN website. Visit BarnQuiltsofCCMN.com to learn more.

Welcome New Board Members

Jean Kubes-Werremeyer

Mary Williamson

The Arts Consortium is pleased to announce that Jean Kubes-Werremeyer and Mary Williamson have joined the board as new members. Those who have been to the Arts Center will know Jean, who has been an active volunteer and has recently taught a class for us. A former elementary teacher, she current works in the field of art retail. Mary has been active in the arts in the county for many years and has served in local government and on other boards. She has her own studio and gallery and is passionate about involving young people in the arts. Please join us in welcoming both of them. Read more about Jean and Mary on our Meet the Board page on our website.

Submit a Nomination or Application for the ACCC Board of Directors

Our ACCC Board Members are actively involved in all aspects of the ACCC including events, classes, festivals, the Arts Center, community initiatives and more. They serve on the board and work on projects or committees with other volunteers.We are seeking board members with the skills and talents mentioned in the qualifications below. SUBMIT

Commitment to the arts (visual, literary, musical, performing) as an artist or supporter
Membership in the Arts Consortium of Carver County
Previous involvement with ACCC activities a plus
Skills or experience in one or more of the following areas: social media, education, program coordination, theatre arts, finance, fundraising, marketing, other nonprofit boards
Willingness to contribute your time and talents to our projects

ACCC Membership

Not an ACCC Member? Consider joining! Our Membership page lists all the benefits and opportunities we offer our Members.

If you are a Member, please take a minute to log into your ACCC account and review your Membership. You can see when you joined and when your Membership is up for renewal. We automatically send you reminder emails before your due date. Membership questions can be directed to our Membership Coordinator, Beth Billstrom at membership@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Go to our Account page to access your Membership info as well as your Directory Listing. Keep it up-to-date. Be sure to include your social media accounts as we have been promoting our Member artists on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

Volunteer Opportunities with the ACCC

The Arts Consortium of Carver County Volunteers are working diligently behind the scenes on some exciting new opportunities for 2020. Volunteer and work to bring the arts to the people of your community. We seek a wide range of strengths and talents, art experience not required. We are actively looking for additional Members for our Board of Directors to fill several positions and for people to serve on a committee, special project or participate in new initiatives. Volunteer Form.

ArtMatters Newsletter April 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

ArtMatters Newsletter Volume 10 Issue 4 | April 2020

Hello! Thank you for opening our April ArtMatters Newsletter as we keep you informed about everything the ACCC has to offer. Please watch our website for updates on classes and events to see if the current health crisis necessitates we cancel or postpone.

ACCC Annual Meeting Statement

For those of you who missed our ACCC Annual Meeting March 10th, you can view the ACCC 2019 Annual Statement on our Membership page on our website at any time.

Mark Your Calendar

Saturday, April 25 Block Printing Class from 12-2:30pm
Friday, May 1 New Song Collective (to be determined)
Saturday, May 2 Mobile Phone Photography I Class 9-12pm
Saturday, May 16 Work in Progress Workshop 9-11am
Saturday, June 20 Viking Knit Bracelet Class10am-3pm
Saturday, July 18 Saami Bracelet Class 9am-3pm

Check our online Calendar for more events, classes and opportunities!
Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery Hours Wed-Sat 9-5 (subject to volunteer availability)
Open extended hours for classes and special events
Per the MN Governor’s order to “Stay at Home” the ACCC Arts Center is closed until April 10, 2020. We anticipate opening Saturday, April 11, 2020 if allowed.

Upcoming Events

Literary Arts

First, we are pleased to announce that the Flash Fiction Contest winners are published on our ACCC website. Please read and enjoy! Link to the stories. Several winners pictured.

Our 2020 Poetry Contest is closed, and poems are being reviewed for awards. At this time, we are postponing the Poetry Celebration scheduled for April 28 in the Arts Center and Ruby’s Roost. We do not yet have an alternative date but hope to do something in May at which all those who entered will be invited to read, and ribbons will be awarded to winners. Joyce Sutphen, Minnesota Poet Laureate and other judges will also read. Questions? Contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin at literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Interested in joining the Board of ACCC as the next Literary Liaison? Please fill out a Board Member Application on our website.

Sprig of That Presents, Metro Blend – Twin Cities Composer Commissions May 22

Sprig Of That is a Minneapolis-based trio consisting of Isabel Dammann on violin, Kissy Bergmark on Tabla and llan Blanca on acoustic guitar. Performing both fresh arrangements of folk favorites and lush original works at the ACCC Arts Center on May 22 from 8-9pm. Tickets available at the door, $5, $10, $15, $20 Pay as you can afford. Steve Kelzer, Music Liaison, music@artsofcarvercounty.org. www.sprigofthat.com

ArtStock Art, Wine & Music Festival July 11 & 12

Join us at ArtStock Art, Wine & Music Festival and help us celebrate it’s 10th Anniversary! Held at Parley Lake Winery in Waconia, enjoy wine, live music and nature as you experience unique works of Art. Artists may apply at www.Zapplication.org. Email your questions to Barb Hone at festivals@artsofcarvercounty.org.

New Downloadable ACCC CDs Available

The Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County are proud to release all 5 Volumes of the Songwriters CD on Bandcamp. This site enables you to download these collections of original music from Carver County. The proceeds will be used to promote the music scene in Carver County. You can purchase a physical CD at the Arts Center or via our website and we will mail it to you. Visit our CD page for details. Steve Kelzer, Music Liaison, music@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Two New Board Members

Kristin Lebben

Barb Hone

Please welcome back Barb Hone, helping out as our Festivals Liaison. Barb has served three terms as ACCC President and is looking forward to celebrating the 10th anniversary of ArtStock this July along with the 10th anniversary of the ACCC Barn Quilt project! We also welcome Kristin Lebben to the Board, she will be filling the role of our Press/Publications Liaison and working to highlight the ACCC, Artist Members and their artwork. We thank and appreciate our newest volunteers to the Board. If your’e interested in becoming more involved, please apply to be on the ACCC Board of Directors today.

Artist Membership Volunteer Benefit

The Board of Directors approved a new commission split for all artist members volunteering in the Gallery/Gift Shop! As of 3/12/20, any artist member with artwork for sale at the Arts Center and who volunteers 6 hours or more in a given month at the Arts Center, will earn 70% commission on the sale of their work for that month. Win. Win. Visit us at artsofcarvercounty.org and sign up to volunteer today! We are always excited to add new artwork to our mix. See our How to Submit Art page for our Gift Shop or the Exhibitions at the Arts Center page to register for future shows.

We so appreciate our members and continue to plan creative ways to connect your art with our supportive community. Please watch your email for renewal notices and be sure to keep your membership current so can continue to serve you. Thanks so much! Email your membership questions to Beth Billstrom at membership@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Volunteer Opportunities with the ACCC

The Arts Consortium of Carver County Volunteers are still working behind the scenes even though the Arts Center is temporarily closed until April 10, 2020. Volunteer and work to bring the arts to the people of your community. We seek a wide range of strengths and talents, art experience not required. Join Us!

Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for reading our ArtMatters Newsletter April 2020 issue

Be safe everyone!

ArtMatters Newsletter March 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

ArtMatters Newsletter March 2020 Vol. 10 Issue 3

Hello! Welcome to the ArtMatters March Newsletter. It’s full of information, invitations, opportunities and more. We are thankful to all of our followers, members, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and arts advocates! Please share this newsletter with a friend. Enjoy!

ACCC Annual Meeting March 10

You are INVITED to attend the Arts Consortium of Carver County Annual Meeting to celebrate all we have accomplished! As our 10th year comes to a close, we are thankful to have had such diligent board members, volunteers, class instructors, donors, sponsors, members, business and organization advocates.

We serve the communities of Carver County and beyond and we continue to make a difference by bringing art to the people and people to the art. We look forward to telling you about our year and welcome you to be a part of our event.

Tuesday, March 10, 2020
6:30-8:30pm
ACCC Arts Center
7924 Victoria Drive, Studio Level
Victoria MN 952-443-3200

Directions and Parking Link

Mark Your Calendar

Poetry Contest Deadline midnight tonight, March 1
Portraits & Family Exhibit ends March 13
Flash Fiction Readings and Awards March 5, 6:30pm Social/7pm Program
New Song Collective – Salute to Women Composers March 6, 7-8:30pm
ACCC Annual Meeting All Welcome Tuesday, Mar 10, 6:30-8:30pm
District 112 Youth Art Show March 18 to April 3
Student Artists’ Reception for District 112 Youth Art Show Thurs, Mar 19, 6:30-8:30pm
Poetry Contest Celebration, Tues, April 28 at 6:30pm

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery Hours
NEW! *MARCH OPEN HOURS Wed-Sat 9-5* (subject to volunteer availability)
Open extended hours for classes and special events
Check our online Calendar for more events, classes and opportunities

At the Arts Center

Portraits and Family Exhibit through March 13

Come see the stunning artwork on the walls of the Arts Center. Choose your favorite! The exhibit continues through Friday, March 13th. Watch your email for the next Call for Artists for our next show called Reflections and Abstractions which runs April 8th – May 29th.

Visit our retail Gift Shop with items for every occasion artist-made by ACCC Members. Check out our variety of books, ACCC music CDs, and a wide selection of wearable and functional art as well as paintings, sculpture, drawings, carvings and more. Greeting cards too!

Flash Fiction Awards and Readings March 5

Everyone is invited to our 2020 Flash Fiction Contest winner announcement night. All submitting authors are invited to join us at the ACCC Arts Center on Thursday, Mar. 5, 2020 at 6:30pm for Social Time, Program starts at 7pm. Winners will be announced, and there will be an opportunity for everyone to read submissions. Contact Jim Kane with questions at flashfiction@artsofcarvercounty.org.

A Salute to Women Composers March 6

Join us for our next New Song Collective, focusing on women composers. We will have a gathering of songwriters performing their own compositions and talking about them. Come and meet Holly Halldorson, Yvette Nelson, Sam Fleitman, Tanecsha Jones, Tori Evans and Andrea Lyn. We will serve wine, pop, water, and snacks. Listen and learn from the participating songwriters and musicians. March 6 at 7pm. Steve Kelzer (ACCC Music Liaison)

Youth Art Show District 112

District 112 Youth Art Show Starts March 18

Explore Young Minds and the creativity showcased at the Artists’ Reception for the District 112 Youth Art Show on Thursday March 19, from 6:30- 8:30PM. Beverages and snacks provided. Our gallery will be filled with artwork from the many talented students of District 112. Art will be on display at the Arts Center March 18th to April 3rd, be sure to stop in and take a look!

SIGN UP for Art Classes

ACCC Membership Benefit – Members, be sure to get the current Discount Code from your ACCC Account before you register. Discount Code saves you 10% on all ACCC Classes.

Registration deadlines are typically 2 days prior to the class start date. There are minimum and maximum students allowed. All details are on our Classes page on our website or click the Registration button below for details. If you’d like to teach a Class or participate on our Classes Committee, please email Cindy Anderson at classes@artsofcarvercounty.org or view our How to Submit a Class page.

Watercolor Painting
Wednesdays, Mar 4 & 11, 9-11:30am. Register for 1 or both.

Kids Art Camp, The Artist’s Eye
Saturdays, Mar 7 & 14, 10am-1pm. Register for 1 or both.

Mandala Drawing Class
Tuesday, Mar 31, 6:30-8:30pmHank Williams Hillbilly Shakespeare Series
Tuesdays, April 14 & 21, 9:30-11:30am

Block Printing
Saturday, April 25, 12-2:30pm

Needle Felting 2D
Sunday, May 3, 3-5pm

Call for Songwriters and Musicians by March 31

If you are a songwriter who is currently living in Carver County, or has resided in Carver County in the past, we are taking submissions to be included in a compilation called, The Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County, Volume VI.

Express your interest by March 31, 2020 to our ACCC Music Liaison, Steve Kelzer, music@artsofcarvercounty.org, 952-465-2384. CD RELEASE CONCERT is planned for Friday, June 19, 2020 from 6:30-9pm at Chaska City Center Park in downtown Chaska, 300 North Chestnut St. If you’d like to volunteer to help coordinate the CD, the Concert, or other music events and programs, please contact Steve or visit our Volunteers page.

You can purchase any current CD at the ACCC Arts Center or Vol. 2-5 on our website. Limited supply.

Poetry Contest Celebration, April 28

We will celebrate Poetry Month and the winners of this year’s Poetry Contest on April 28 in the Arts Center and Ruby’s Roost beginning at 6:30 pm for a Social Time in the Arts Center followed by a 7 pm Poetry Reading in Ruby’s Roost. All those who submitted poems will be invited to read along with the preliminary judges and Joyce Sutphen, Minnesota Poet Laureate. Please mark your calendars for what promises to be a wonderful evening of poetry. Questions? Please contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin, Literary Liaison

ACCC is Seeking new Board members

The Arts Consortium of Carver County is seeking new board members eager to contribute to the future of the arts and creative expression in Carver County. The Board serves over 250 ACCC members, including visual artists, writers, musicians, performers, business patrons, and community supporters of the arts. We have sponsored events such as ArtStock, Victoria Fine Art Fair, community concerts, art exhibitions, and author events since 2009. Our board members are actively involved in these events and as volunteers in the new Arts Center in Victoria. They serve on the board and work on projects or committees with other volunteers. We are seeking board members from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We hope to bring a diversity of new talents to the board. If you are interested, please do apply. If you know someone who should consider this opportunity, please nominate them and we will reach out to ask them to apply.

To nominate someone for this position, please send their name and contact information (email and phone) to Susan Coultrap-McQuin, literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

APPLY OR NOMINATE by March 20th, thank you!

Volunteer Opportunities with the ACCC

The Arts Consortium of Carver County needs you! Volunteer and work to bring the arts to the people of your community. Opportunities exist often and new and engaging ways to become connected are available. We seek a wide range of strengths and talents, art experience not required. Join Us!

Please fill in the form on our website. We will contact you, thank you!

ArtMatters Newsletter March 2020

ArtMatters Newsletter February 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

Hello! Welcome to the ArtMatters Newsletter February 2020. It’s full of information, invitations, opportunities and more. We are thankful to all of our followers, members, sponsors, donors, volunteers, and arts advocates! Please share and enjoy the newsletter!

Mark Your Calendar

Portraits and Family Exhibit Feb 5 – March 13
Artists’ Reception for Portraits and Family Thurs, Feb 6, 6:30-8:30pm
Poetry Contest Entry Deadline March 1
Flash Fiction Readings and Awards March 5, 6:30pm Social/7pm Program
New Song Collective March 6, 7-8:30pm
ACCC Annual Meeting – All Welcome Tuesday, Mar 10, 6:30-8:30pm
Student Artists’ Reception for District 112 Youth Art Show Thurs, Mar 19, 6:30-8:30pm
We have multiple Classes in February, March and April, see below!

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery Hours
FEBRUARY OPEN HOURS Wed-Fri 12-5pm; Sat 9am to 3pm
NEW! *MARCH OPEN HOURS Wed-Sat 9-3*
Open extended hours for classes and special events
Check our online Calendar for more events, classes and opportunities

Apply or Nominate for Board or Committee

Hello! The ACCC is seeking to add to our Board and Committees. If you’d like to nominate someone or share your talents in a leadership role, or learn more about us by serving on a Committee, please reach out to us. Help us further our mission by supporting the arts in Carver County. Board Member applications are due by February 20th. We accept Volunteers every day. Thank you for considering!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
BOARD APPLICATION INFO

At the Arts Center

Portraits and Family Artists’ Reception Feb 6

Come see our new exhibit at the ACCC Arts Center! Join us and meet the artists at the Artists’ Reception on Thursday, February 6th from 6:30-8:30pm. Enjoy the art with wine, beverages, and hors d’oeuvres while you mingle. To participate in an upcoming exhibit as an artist or if you would like to help volunteer on our Visual Arts Committee, please visit our Volunteer page or contact our Visual Arts Liaison, Mary Strother, at visualarts@artsofcarvercounty.org or 952-448-4432.

Visit our retail Gift Shop with items for every occasion artist-made by ACCC Members. Check out our variety of books, ACCC music CDs, and a wide selection of wearable and functional art as well as paintings, sculpture, drawings, carvings and more. Greeting cards too!

Flash Fiction Awards and Readings March 5

Everyone is invited to our 2020 Flash Fiction Contest winner announcement night. All submitting authors are invited to join us at the ACCC Arts Center on Thursday, Mar. 5, 2020 at 6:30pm for Social Time, Program starts at 7pm. Winners will be announced, and there will be an opportunity for everyone to read submissions. Contact Jim Kane with questions at flashfiction@artsofcarvercounty.org.

New Song Collective March 6

Join us for our next New Song Collective, focusing on women composers. We will have a gathering of songwriters performing their own compositions and talking about them. Come and meet Holly Halldorson, Yvette Nelson, Sam Fleitman, Tanecsha Jones, and Tori Evans. Maybe more! We will serve wine, pop, water, and snacks. Listen and learn from the participating songwriters and musicians. March 6 at 7pm. Steve Kelzer (ACCC Music Liaison)

District 112 Youth Art Show coming in March

Explore Young Minds and the creativity showcased at the Artists’ Reception for the District 112 Youth Art Show on Thursday March 19, from 6:30- 8:30PM. Beverages and snacks provided. Our gallery will be filled with artwork from the many talented students of District 112. Art will be on display at the Arts Center March 18th to April 3rd, be sure to stop in and take a look!

SIGN UP for Art Classes

ACCC Membership Benefit – Members, be sure to get the current Discount Code from your ACCC Account before you register. Discount Code saves you 10% on all ACCC Classes.

Registration deadlines are typically 2 days prior to the class start date. There are minimum and maximum students allowed. All details are on our Classes page on our website or click the Registration button below for details. If you’d like to teach a Class or participate on our Classes Committee, please view our How to Submit a Class page.

Needle Felting Valentine’s Project *SOLD OUT*
Sunday, Feb 2

Block Printing
Saturday, Feb 8 or April 25 12-2:30pm. Register for 1 or both.

Continuing Watercolor Painting
Wednesdays, Feb 19, 20, Mar 4 & 11, 9-11:30am. Register for 1 or both.

Acrylic Painting
Thursdays, Feb 20, 27, Mar 12 6:30-9pm, package price

Kids Art Camp, The Artist’s Eye
Saturdays, Feb 22, 29, Mar 7 & 14, 10am-1pm. Register for 1 or more.

Mandala Drawing Classes
Tuesdays February 25 or March 31. Register for 1 or both.

Shakespeare – Hamlet Series
Tuesdays, Feb 25, Mar 3, 10 & 17, 9:30-11:30am

Hank Williams Hillbilly Shakespeare Series
Tuesdays, April 14 & 21, 9:30-11:30am

Poetry Contest Deadline March 1

The ACCC is accepting entries for the 2020 Arts Consortium of Carver County Poetry Contest until midnight March 1, 2020. Please send us your best poem on the theme(s) “Quiet Ones/ Wild Ones.” The theme may be interpreted broadly to include poems about something quiet or something wild or something both quiet and wild. Let your imagination roam. All poets who submit work and the judges are invited to read their work on April 28 at 7pm at the Arts Center in Victoria. We look forward to both adult and student submissions! Questions? Please contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin, Literary Liaison

Call for Songwriters and Musicians by March 31

If you are a songwriter who is currently living in Carver County, or has resided in Carver County in the past, we are taking submissions to be included in a compilation called, The Songwriters and Musicians of Carver County, Volume VI.

Express your interest by March 31, 2020 to our ACCC Music Liaison, Steve Kelzer, music@artsofcarvercounty.org, 952-465-2384. CD RELEASE CONCERT is planned for Friday, June 19, 2020 from 6:30-9pm at Chaska City Center Park in downtown Chaska, 300 North Chestnut St. If you’d like to volunteer to help coordinate the CD, the Concert, or other music events and programs, please contact Steve or visit our Volunteers page.

You can purchase any current CD at the ACCC Arts Center or Vol. 2-5 on our website. Limited supply.

Tips for Writing Your Membership Profile Description

Beth Billstrom, ACCC Membership Coordinator, has written a post on our website with tips to help Artist Members create or modify their Membership Profile Description. Read her full article here. Email Beth your membership questions to membership@artsofcarvercounty.org or plan to visit her on a day she’s volunteering at the Arts Center to talk about Membership in person.

ArtMatters Newsletter January 2020

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2020, News

ArtMatters Newsletter January 2020

Mark Your Calendar

Youth Art Show-IAA (Integrated Arts Academy) January 8-31
Artists’ Reception for Youth Art Show – IAA Thurs, Jan 9 6:30-8:30pm
Next Step Fund Grant Workshop by MRAC Wednesday, Jan 8 4-5:30pm
New Song Collective – Friday, Jan 10 7-8:30pm
Portraits and Family Exhibit Feb 5 – March 13
Artists’ Reception for Portraits and Family Thurs, Feb 6, 6:30-8:30pm
We have multiple Classes in January and February, see below!

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery Hours* open Wed-Fri 12-5pm; Sat 9am to 3pm
Open extended hours for classes and special events
Check our online Calendar for more events, classes and opportunities
*We will close the Arts Center for bad weather when District 112 closes their schools and activities.

Arts Center in January

Integrated Arts Academy Youth Show and Artists’ Reception Jan 9
Enjoy the creative designs of student art from Integrated Arts Academy in District 112. Integrated Arts Academy is a public high school located in Chaska, founded on research linking academic success to the arts and hands-on learning experiences. Their curriculum embeds culinary, horticulture, visual arts, and floral and textile design into core subjects such as math, science, English, and social studies. The rich arts-integrated instruction, small school size (~125 students grades 9-12), and strong community partnerships offer students a true personalized high school education. The show runs January 8-31.

Join us for the Artists’ Reception on Thursday, January 9th from 6:30-8:30pm to meet the student artists and find out the secrets behind the art. Everyone is invited. Savor light appetizers and beverages as you enjoy the music and art of the evening. Free to attend.

Next Step Fund Grant Workshop Jan 8
Wednesday, January 8th from 4-5:30pm

The Next Step Fund, funded by the McKnight Foundation, provides project grants up to $5,000 to artists in any discipline for the purpose of career development and artistic achievement. This is a free workshop held at the ACCC Arts Center, Registration is required through the MRAC (Metro Regional Arts Council) website. Limited to 30.

New Song Collective January 10

The Night of the Troubadours, our next New Song Collective, is coming up Friday, January 10th at the Arts Center. We will be serving wine, pop, water, and snacks. Listen and learn from the participating songwriters and musicians: Clark Machtemes, Stephen Smith, Ted Hajnasiewicz, David Falbo, Jackson Atkins, and Steve Kelzer (ACCC Music Liaison)

Sign Up for Classes

ACCC Membership Benefit – Members, be sure to get the current Discount Code from your ACCC Account before you register. Discount Code saves you 10% on all ACCC Classes.

NEW! 3 Mandala Drawing Classes Offered
Tuesdays January 14, February 25 or March 31. Register for 1, 2 or all 3.Class 1: Creating Circles of Beauty (color pencil on small black paper with gel pen embellishments)
Class 2: Healing Hands Mandala (white color pencil on large black paper)
Class 3: Using Symbols in Mandala Making (color pencil on black paper with gel pen and permanent marker embellishments)
Instructor: Jean Kubes-Werremeyer

How to Get Started Writing a Book Jan 18
Saturday, January 18th from 11am to 1pm.
Even if you don’t know what you want to write about, you will find out in this class, and get started simply, with step-by-step instructions in this two hour workshop. Instructor: Debbie Johnson

NEW! 7 Sonnets Jan 21 & 28
Tuesday, January 21 and 28 9:30-11:30am
The class will explore the history of sonnets, their structural and metrical art. It will study several Shakespearean sonnets, look at a sonnet as expressed in a modern setting, and, yes, write a sonnet. Instructor: Barb Hone

NEW! 2D Needle Felting: Valentine’s Day Project
Sunday, February 2, 2020 3:00-5:30pm
Create a beautiful Valentine’s Day picture with the magic of using the simple tools of a barbed needle and wool! Instructor will provide techniques to create this 2D picture framed by an embroidery hoop, and how to create similar projects.
Instructor: Stephanie Friant

NEW! Shakespeare – Hamlet Series starts Feb 25
Tuesdays, Feb 25, Mar 3, 10 & 17 from 9:30-11:30am
The class will include a brief history of drama, the world view as the Middle Ages tumbled into the Renaissance. Instructor: Barb Hone

Class Details and Registration with button below

Board Application Deadline February 20

The Arts Consortium of Carver County is seeking new board members. The Board serves over 250 ACCC members, including visual artists, writers, musicians, performers, business patrons, and community supporters of the arts. We are seeking board members from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We hope to bring a diversity of new talents to the board. Qualifications and Submission details

Flash Fiction Contest Deadline Jan 31

Get your creative juices flowing for the 2020 Flash Fiction contest. The theme is IN THE BEGINNING, and entries must be 600 words or less. Deadline for submissions is Jan 31, 2020. For Young Adult (ages 13-18) and Adult (19 and older). Submission information is on our website, link below. All submitting authors are invited to an event scheduled for Mar. 5, 2020 at the Arts Center in Victoria. Winners will be announced, and there will be an opportunity for everyone to read submissions. Please send questions to flashfiction@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Call for Artists – Portraits and Family Exhibit Deadline Jan 27

We look into your face and we can see your soul… Do you ever have that happen? When you take a picture or sculpt a persona of someone or when you paint the likeness of those familiar to you or someone you capture on the path through life yet never meet. We are looking for your Interpretations of Portraits and Family at the ACCC Gallery.

Entry deadline is by midnight on Monday, January 27, 2020. Full instructions are on our website on the Portraits and Family Post. You can direct your questions to our Visual Arts Liaison, Mary Strother, at visualarts@artsofcarvercounty.org or 952-448-4432.

Announcing the 2020 Poetry Contest

The ACCC is accepting entries for the 2020 Arts Consortium of Carver County Poetry Contest from January 1 through midnight March 1, 2020. Please send us your best poem on the theme(s) “Quiet Ones/ Wild Ones.” The theme may be interpreted broadly to include poems about something quiet or something wild or something both quiet and wild. Let your imagination roam. Your poem will be judged anonymously according to age and resident categories by a group of local poets. Winners will be chosen by Joyce Sutphen, Carver County resident and Poet Laureate, Minnesota. All poets who submit work and the judges will be invited to read their work on April 23 at the Arts Center in Victoria. We look forward to both adult and student submissions! Link to more information.
Questions? Please contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin, Literary Liaison

Literary Arts

On Dec. 5 the Literary Arts Committee hosted Writers Read Their Books. We had a more formal agenda than usual, introducing each author and giving them time to tell us about their books and read a “tantalizing” passage. It was great fun to hear from such a variety of authors. Those who presented included Sarah Collins, Barb Hone, Jim Kane, Sheri Kramer, April Munson, Doug Munson, Dan O’Brien, and Heidi Skarie. The writers were very pleased to sell quite a few books. For those who missed out, their books will still be available for sale in the new year.

As the new year begins, we wish to remind everyone to consider entering the Flash Fiction Contest (deadline Jan. 31) and the Poetry Contest (deadline March 1). The committee has also completed planning for 2020 events. Our schedule will include 2 collaborative activities: one with the visual artists and one with musicians. Watch for more details about these exciting opportunities in the new year. Happy New Year to all.

ArtMatters Newsletter Dec 2019

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2019, News

ArtMatters ACCC Newsletter – December 2019 issue, Enjoy!

End of Year Donations Accepted

We rely on donations, sponsorships, memberships, grants, and contributions to support our initiatives and programs throughout the year. We work to fulfill our mission of elevating the arts within our communities. If you’d like to make a year-end donation, we have open arms for your support. We accept donations from individuals, families, charitable funds, estates, charitable organizations, businesses, schools, government agencies and nonprofits. You don’t need to be an artist to support the ARTS!

As a 501(c)3, the Arts Consortium of Carver County is a registered charitable organization. Your Donation should be 100% tax deductible. Please verify with your accountant. Thank you for your support! Donate TODAY on our website. Join us by becoming a valued Member.

Mark Your Calendar and Shop the Holiday Gift Show

Writers Read Their Books Thursday, Dec 5, 7-9pm
Holiday Gift Show open until Saturday, Dec 21
Youth Art Show-IAA – January 8-31
Artists’ Reception for Youth Art Show – IAA (Integrated Arts Academy) Thurs, Jan 9 6:30-8:30pm
Next Step Fund Grant Workshop by MRAC Wednesday, Jan 8 4-5:30pm
New Song Collective – Friday, Jan 10 7-8:30pm
Class – How To Get Started Writing a Book Sat, January 18, 11am-1pm (Registration required)

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery open until December 21, 2019 Wed-Fri 12-5pm; Sat 9am to 3pm
Open extended hours Saturday, Dec. 7, 14 & 21 9am to 5pm
Please check the website for additional hours and special event openings

Arts Center will be closed December 22 – January 7, 2020.
Check our online Calendar for more events and classes

Arts Center in December

Writers Read Their Books

Do you like to give a good book as a present or buy one for yourself? Come hear Carver County writers tell you about their books for sale in the ACCC Arts Center on December 5 at 7-9 pm. Writers Read Their Books will include short presentations by authors S. Collin Ellsworth, Barb Hone, Jim Kane, Sheri Kramer, Doug Munson, April Munson, Dan O’Brien, and Heidi Skarie. They work in a variety of genres and have written mysteries, children’s books, historical fiction, magical realism, science fiction, books on Barn Quilts, and much more. You will have a chance to talk with each of them and have them autograph any book that you buy. Refreshments will be served. The Holiday Gift Show will be in process. Do join us on Dec. 5 for Writers Read Their Books! Questions: Contact Literary Liaison Susan Coultrap-McQuin at literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Holiday Gift Show

Shop for some of the most unique gift ideas of the season! Bring your friends and relatives and help to promote the Arts in Carver County! We have transformed the Arts Center into a Holiday Market with over 50 artist’s works featuring paintings in watercolor, oils and acrylics, mixed media, pottery, jewelry, photography, textiles, unique gifts, wood, blown glass, kiln formed glass, sculpture, ornaments,metal, local authors books, felted wool, greeting cards, local musicians music CD’s and more. Delight yourself in the spirit of the Holidays while you shop for your special loved ones. Enjoy the Season!

January Gallery Exhibit

Enjoy the creative designs of student art in both 2D and 3D work. This is the first annual show for the IAA with the Arts Consortium and it will certainly be an impressive group of work. The show runs January 8-31. Join us for the Artists’ Reception on Thursday, January 9th from 6:30-8:30pm to meet the student artists and find out the secrets behind the art. Everyone is invited. Savor light appetizers and beverages as you enjoy the music and art of the evening. Free to attend.

Register For Workshop

Next Step Fund Grant Workshop by MRAC
Wednesday, January 8th from 4-5:30pm

The Next Step Fund, funded by the McKnight Foundation, provides project grants up to $5,000 to artists in any discipline for the purpose of career development and artistic achievement. Applicants may be at any stage of their career, but must demonstrate achievement in their artistic field and have a history of public presentation or community contribution. This is a highly competitive program and potential applicants are encouraged to attend a grant workshop to learn about this grant opportunity and the program intent.

MRAC brings these workshops out into the community in an effort to reach as many artists, makers, and creatives as possible. This is a free workshop held at the ACCC Arts Center, Registration is required through the MRAC (Metro Regional Arts Council) website. Limited to 30.

Register For Class

ACCC Membership Benefit – Members, be sure to get the current Discount Code from your ACCC Account before you register. Discount Code saves you 10% on all ACCC Classes.

How to Get Started Writing a Book with Debbie Johnson
Saturday, January 18th from 11am to 1pm. If inclement weather, backup date is Sat Jan 25th, same time.
Even if you don’t know what you want to write about, you will find out in this class, and get started simply, with step-by-step instructions in this two hour workshop by best-selling author, editor, publisher, and award-winning filmmaker, Debbie Johnson. Appropriate for fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenplays and teleplays, workbooks, tech-manuals, whatever!

What students said who participated in this class in November:
“I thought it was a great class with very useful information, I would love to take more in the future.” G Seiffert, Victoria MN
“I got direction and feel like I can move forward.” and “Very informative.”

Register on our Classes page.

Agriculture Photography Contest Winners

In November the Arts Consortium of Carver County held their 5th photography contest. The subject of this year’s contest was AGRICULTURE and the entries fell into 5 categories by grade, resident and nonresident. Artists/photographers explored all seasons of agriculture from winter through harvest. Images were made of people, animals and the business of agriculture. Most of the images were in color, some images came close to black and white and a few were black and white. Award night participants were able to see the work and listen to a critique of photo composition. This year’s judge was Mary Strother, ACCC Visual Arts Liaison. After the announcement event, attendees shopped the Holiday Gift Show at the Arts Center.

Photo Contest Winners
Grade K-4
Blue Ribbon Charlie Szybnski, East Union Elementary
Red Ribbon Benjamin Szybnski, East Union Elementary
Yellow Ribbon Charlie Szybnski, East Union Elementary

Grade 9-12
Blue Ribbon Disha Thakkar, Chanhassen High School
Red Ribbon Disha Thakkar, Chanhassen High School
Yellow Ribbon Disha Thakkar, Chanhassen High School

Adult 18+ Carver County Resident
Blue Ribbon Bret Bailey
Red Ribbon Rebecca Willette
Yellow Ribbon Steve Kelzer

Adult 18+ Non-Resident of Carver County
Blue Ribbon Kyle Peterson
Red Ribbon Jeff Hillis
Yellow Ribbon Kyle Peterson

View winning photos on our 2019 Photo Contest Winners page

Literary Arts

The ACCC Literary Committee is looking forward to an exciting 2020, and we are hoping you will join us at several of our events. In the first part of the year we are sponsoring contests in Flash Fiction and Poetry, and we will host celebrations for each to which the public will be invited. All those who submit to the contests will have an opportunity to read their own works at the celebrations and to hear the announcements of the winners. The Flash Fiction contest is now open with a closing deadline of January 31 and a celebration date of March 5. The Poetry Contest will open in January with a closing date of March 1 and a celebration date of April 23. Later in the year we will host open readings as well as collaborative projects with artists and with musicians. We look forward to seeing you in 2020. Literary Liaison Contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin, literary@artsofcarvercounty.org.

Attention Writers! The 4th Annual ACCC Flash Fiction Contest Opens

Get your creative juices flowing. The 2020 flash fiction contest sponsored by the Arts Consortium of Carver County (ACCC) begins Dec. 1, 2019. The theme is IN THE BEGINNING, and entries must be 600 words or less. That three-word theme does not have to appear in the body of the story. Deadline for submissions is Jan 31, 2020. For the first time our contest will have two categories: Young Adult (ages 13-18) and Adult (19 and older). Submit your work in the body of an email sent to: flashfiction@artsofcarvercounty.org. Include your name, phone number, age category and story title with your entry. Attached files and handwritten entries will not be accepted. Judges will determine the top three winners in each category. All submitting authors are invited to an event scheduled for Mar. 5, 2020 at the Arts Center in Victoria. Winners will be announced, and there will be an opportunity for everyone to read submissions. You can consult the website for more details and to read winning entries from previous years 2019, 2018, and 2017. Please send questions to flashfiction@artsofcarvercounty.org.

ACCC is Seeking new Board Members

ACCC is Seeking new Board members
The Arts Consortium of Carver County is seeking new board members. The Board serves over 250 ACCC members, including visual artists, writers, musicians, performers, business patrons, and community supporters of the arts. We have sponsored events such as ArtStock, Victoria Fine Art Fair, community concerts, art exhibitions, and author events since 2009. Our board members are actively involved in these events and as volunteers in the new Arts Center in Victoria. They serve on the board and work on projects or committees with other volunteers. We are seeking board members from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. We hope to bring a diversity of new talents to the board.

Qualifications:

Involvement in the arts, whether visual, literary, musical, or performing, as a practitioner or as a supporter of the arts
Willingness to contribute your time, talents, and passion to our many projects
Skills or experience in one or more of the following areas: social media, education, program/festival coordination, business, finance, and/or marketing.
Membership in the Arts Consortium of Carver County
Volunteer involvement with ACCC activities, the Arts Center, or service on other non-profit boards a plus

To apply:
Please fill out the application form on line at https://artsofcarvercounty.org/about/meet-boardstaff/ to describe your background (work and volunteer) and qualifications and to provide the names of two people we can contact as references for you. Please complete the application beginning now through January 15. Review of applications will begin immediately.

Membership News

Welcome!
The holidays are upon us and our group continues to grow. Please join me in welcoming new members Andrea Merboth and Stacy & Christopher Kelly. We’re happy to have them join our community!

Get Noticed!
One of the biggest artistic challenges is getting our work (and info about ourselves) noticed by potential buyers and admirers. Your ACCC membership offers you an ideal opportunity to get yourself in the public’s eye by filling out your Artist Profile on the ACCC website.

Many of our members do have their profiles filled out (kudos to you!), but for others it’s a challenge. I’ve learned some members aren’t sure what info to include in the description or they don’t have decent images of their work. A few members also said they’ve been meaning to get it done but haven’t had the time. (I can relate!) As we move into 2020, ACCC will be exploring more ways to help our member artists connect with buyers. Having your Artist Profile filled out will be essential to participating in this process. So over the next few weeks I’ll be writing some short blog posts with tips to help you get your Artist Profile completed. I’ll email links to the posts as they’re published.

In the meantime, I’d love for you to check out a few of the Artist Profiles currently on the ACCC website. Some great examples are Cynthia Anderson (sculpture), Jackson Atkins (songwriter/musician), Andrea Merboth (painter/children’s book author), and Waconia Center For Dance Arts. You’ll find each artist approached their profile in the way that suited their art and their personal style in a way that felt comfortable for them. If you haven’t filled out your Artist Profile yet, I’d love to help you get that done in 2020!
Beth Billstrom Membership@artsofcarvercounty.org.

ArtMatters ACCC Newsletter – December 2019 issue

ArtMatters Newsletter November 2019

in ArtMatters Newsletter, ArtMatters Newsletters 2019, News

ArtMatters Newsletter Volume 9 Issue 11 | November 2019

Mark Your Calendar

Holiday Gift Show Nov 6 to Dec 21
Holiday Gift Show Artists’ Reception Thursday, Nov 7, 6:30-8:30pm
New Song Collective Friday, Nov 8, 7-8:30pm
Class – How To Get Started Writing a Book Tuesday, Nov 12, 6:30-8:30 (Registration required)
Photo Contest Ribbon Award and Workshop Thursday, Nov 14, 6pm
Class – Glass Paint Pour Wednesday, Nov 13, 7-9pm (Registration required)
Writers Read Their Books Thursday, Dec 5, 7-9pm

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery open Wed-Fri 12-5pm; Sat 9am to 3pm
We will extend hours for special events and community events.

Check our online Calendar for more events and classes

Arts Center in November

Holiday Gift Show Artists’ Reception
Please join us on Thursday, November 7th as we welcome in the 2019 Holiday Shopping Season. Meet our talented local artists and enjoy beverages, wine and light fare as you mingle and explore. Doors open at 6:30PM! ENJOY!

New Song Collective

Join us for an evening of original instrumental music. Enjoy beverages, wine and light fare. Friday, November 8th 7-8:30pm.

FEATURED MUSICIANS
Bob Mueller
Tom Bright
Jacob Whalen
Tom Sedio
Steve Kelzer

Agriculture Photography Contest Entry Deadline is by midnight November 5th

The top three winners in each category will be awarded a blue, red or yellow ribbon with our appreciation at the Photography Workshop on Thursday, November 14th at the Arts Center. All are welcome to attend. This year’s Photo Contest theme is “Agriculture” and photographs can include any aspect of agriculture and rural life. Ribbons will be awarded in the following categories: K-4th grade, 5-8th grade, 9-12th grade, Adult (18+ years of age) resident of Carver County, Adult (18+ years of age) non-resident of Carver County. The application deadline is midnight November 5. Check our website for submission instructions.
Shown is the 2018 Adult Resident Blue Ribbon winner Rebecca Willette.

Register For Classes

ACCC Membership Benefit – Members, be sure to get the current Discount Code from your ACCC Account before you register. Discount Code saves you 10% on all ACCC Classes.

How to Get Started Writing a Book with Debbie Johnson
Even if you don’t know what you want to write about, you will find out in this class, and get started simply, with step-by-step instructions in this two hour workshop by best-selling author, editor, publisher, and award-winning filmmaker, Debbie Johnson. Appropriate for fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenplays and teleplays, workbooks, tech-manuals, whatever!
Class Details and Registration
Debbie Johnson is the bestselling author of Think Yourself Thin published originally by Disney’s publisher, Hyperion. She has ghost-written as well as edited books for her clients for three decades. Johnson is also the author of a dozen other books, including her latest tween novelettes, and is an award-winning screenwriter.

Glass Paint Pour with artist Katie Trent
Create a swirling mix of colors using enamel paint on glass! You will learn how to combine and mix paints on glass to create a plate or bowl that will become a treasured work of art! During the class you will choose colors and learn how to swirl and drag them across a clear glass base to create a one-of-a-kind design. Outside of class, the instructor will fuse this piece onto colored glass and then slump it into a mold to create a plate or bowl that you can pick up at the Arts Center in a week or two.
Class Details and Registration
I have been working with glass for more than 20 years. Fusing glass is my latest passion, though I still love to work on commissioned traditional stained glass pieces. I keep experimenting with new techniques and ideas. I really love to teach, and look forward to sharing my expertise with the Carver County community. My classes are for anyone interested in glass as an artistic medium. Typically NO prior experience with glass is required. All you need is an inquisitive spirit and a willingness to climb outside of your box.

Jim Hillis just finished teaching Watercolor, Acrylic and Drawing Classes in October and plans to schedule more classes soon! As soon as they are scheduled, we will let you know!

Would you like to teach a class at the Arts Center? Start by going to our How to Submit a Class page on our website for step by step instructions on how we can partner with you to support the Arts in Carver County.

Writers Read Their Books

Calling all those who have books for sale in the Holiday Show! The Literary Committee would like to feature you at a public event Writers Read Their Books on Dec. 5 in the Arts Center, Victoria. Do come and tell the audience about your work, read a little of it, and autograph your books for sale. The event will begin at 7pm. Refreshments will be served. If you are interested, please contact Susan Coultrap-McQuin for more details and to let the committee know you plan to participate. Email Susan.

Literary Arts

Writers Read Art, held on Oct 17, was a delightful event. We heard stories and poems from ten writers inspired by the works of artists and writers in the Member Show. After each reading, the artists present told us about what they had in mind in creating their own works. In pairs the artists, writers and audience members drafted haikus about other works of art in the show, which we then shared aloud. Artists received copies of the writings about their own work. It was an enjoyable evening of sharing art, literature, and inspiration. In 2020 we are planning a whole show featuring the collaborations of artists and writers. Watch for more details in the new year.

Writers, please don’t forget that you can submit your literary work to any of the shows in the Arts Center. If you have a one-page piece that is printed in at least 16 or 18 font and framed for hanging, you may enter it in a show, using the same theme, procedures, and deadlines as the visual artists. Your piece must be for sale, as are the works of art.

New Membership Coordinator

Hello! I’m Beth Billstrom.
I’m glad to volunteer as the new ACCC Membership Coordinator. I joined ACCC in spring of 2017 and have met many talented artists who love to share their work and inspire others to create. It’s the artists and supportive business/organizations that are at the heart of ACCC. We currently have 251 members! I feel lucky to be a part of such a vibrant community.

As the Membership Coordinator I’ll be helping current and new members manage all the details of their membership: initial registration, membership renewal, setting up membership profiles, answering questions, and being a liaison with board members and chairpersons as needed. Members needing assistance can email me at membership@artsofcarvercounty.org or stop by the Arts Center when I’m volunteering.

I’m looking forward to getting know more of our members. If you see me at an exhibit or ACCC event, please introduce yourself. Last, but not least, if you’re a new member or just haven’t had a chance to get your ACCC membership profile set up on our website, I’d be happy to help you. It’s a great way for all our members to promote their work and share what they love to do.

2 Specific Volunteer Opportunities

ACCC seeks a volunteer to help spread the word about us on social media. You will work in collaboration with our webmaster and board members to advertise all the good events and activities of the ACCC. This would take only a few hours a month from your own home on your own schedule. Interested? Fill out a volunteer form on the website and fill in your interest in being Social Media Coordinator.

ACCC seeks two volunteers who would like to coordinate ArtStock and Victoria Fine Art Fair. Working together under the mentorship of those who have done these festivals before and have the process in place, each of volunteer would take responsibility for one of the festivals. If you are interested in volunteering to work with a small group on festivals and to lead one of them, please fill out a volunteer form on the ACCC website and indicate your interest is Festivals—ArtStock or Festivals—Victoria Fine Art Fair.

End of Year Donations Accepted

We rely on donations, sponsorships, memberships, grants, and contributions to support our initiatives and programs throughout the year. We work to fulfill our mission of elevating the arts within our communities. If you’d like to make a year-end donation, we have open arms for your support. We accept donations from individuals, families, charitable funds, estates, charitable organizations, businesses, schools, government agencies and nonprofits. You don’t need to be an artist to support the ARTS!

As a 501(c)3, the Arts Consortium of Carver County is a registered charitable organization. Your Donation should be 100% tax deductible. Please verify with your accountant. Thank you for your support! Donate TODAY on our website. Join us by becoming a valued Member.

ArtMatters Newsletter November 2019

ArtMatters Newsletter October 2019

in ArtMatters Newsletters 2019, News

ArtMatters Newsletter Volume 9 Issue 10 | October 2019

Current and Upcoming Events

Writers Read Art October 17 at 7pm
Members’ Show Exhibit continues until November 1
Holiday Show Nov 6 to Dec 21
Holiday Show Artists’ Reception Nov 7, 6:30-8:30pm

Arts Center Gift Shop and Gallery open Wed-Fri 12-5pm; Sat 9am to 3pm

Check our online Calendar for more events and classes

Arts Center in October

Writers Read Art
You are invited to attend the event “Writers Read Art” on October 17 at 7 pm in the Arts Center in Victoria. Local writers have been composing written responses to the art in the Members’ Show and during this evening will read one of their works of prose or poetry to the public. Our event will include not only the readings, but also a time for artists and writers and the public to socialize with each other and to discuss possible future collaborations between artists and writers. We look forward to seeing you at this exciting new undertaking by the Arts Consortium of Carver County. Direct your questions to Susan Coultrap-McQuin, literaryarts@artsofcarvercounty.org or call the Arts Center at 952-443-3200.

Call for Artists for the Holiday Gift Show

We INVITE ALL ARTISTS to enter the 2nd Annual ACCC Holiday Gift Show at the Arts Center. We look forward to showcasing our extremely talented local artists. We are seeking a wide selection of one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted gifts, CDs, books and more for purchase for the holidays. Submission deadline is Oct. 22, 2019. Show is Nov 6-Dec 21. Sell your art in Victoria! Visit our website for submission details.

Agriculture Photography Contest

The top three winners in each category will be awarded a blue, red or yellow ribbon with our appreciation at the Photography Workshop on Thursday, November 14th at the Arts Center. All are welcome to attend. This year’s Photo Contest theme is “Agriculture” and photographs can include any aspect of agriculture and rural life. Ribbons will be awarded in the following categories: K-4th grade, 5-8th grade, 9-12th grade, Adult (18+ years of age) resident of Carver County, Adult (18+ years of age) non-resident of Carver County. The application deadline is midnight November 5. Check our website for submission instructions.

Art Wander Studio Tour 2019

Thank you to all who did the Art Wander Studio Tour and visited with our local artists throughout Carver County. You can learn more about the artists on ArtWander.com. We look forward to showcasing more of their work at the Arts Center during the Holiday Gift Show and into the new year!

We Are Gearing Up For Holiday Shoppers!

Seeking additional Volunteers to work alongside our experienced Volunteers in anticipation of our increased shoppers during the holidays. The ACCC Arts Center is one of the ways we support local artists, by offering them a venue to sell their beautiful work. We rely 100% on Volunteers to run the Center. We are seeking Volunteers to fill shifts that are 2 or 3 hours on Wednesdays – Saturdays. NO RETAIL EXPERIENCE NECESSARY, we will train you, it’s really quite simple to catch on and it’s so fun to talk with the customers as they browse the Center. If you are interested, please fill out the Volunteer Form.

QuickBooks Bookkeeping Volunteer
We are also seeking a Volunteer with QuickBooks experience to help us keep our finances in order. Indicate what you are interested in and your skills when you fill out the Volunteer Form, link above. Thanks!

Thank you for your support of the Arts Consortium of Carver County!

Join. Donate. Sponsor.

We rely on donations, sponsorships, memberships, grants, and contributions to support our initiatives and programs. We work to fulfill our mission of elevating the arts within our communities. We receive donations throughout the year from Members and Nonmembers. Sometimes we have a special donation drive when we have the opportunity to receive matching funds. We accept donations from individuals, families, charitable funds, estates, charitable organizations, businesses, schools, government agencies and nonprofits. You don’t need to be an artist to support the ARTS!

As a 501(c)3, the Arts Consortium of Carver County is a registered charitable organization. Your Donation should be 100% tax deductible. Please verify with your accountant. Thank you for your support! Donate Today. Join us by becoming a Member.

ACCC Member Directories

Hello ACCC Members! Thank you to those Artists, Businesses and Organizations who have completed their online Directory Listing on the ACCC website. If you haven’t logged into your new ACCC Membership Account for the first time yet, please start on our Account page by requesting your password. Contact Michelle Aspelin with any Membership questions at admin@artsofcarvercounty.org.

View Visual Artist Directory
View Music Artist Directory
View Literary Artist Directory
View Theater & Dance Directory