ARTSpulse by Dayna DelVal

Published by

of the Red River Valley

M AY / JUNE 2 0 1 2

A GUIDE TO THE AREA’S ARTS A N D CULTURE

Endless

activities this summer at the FargoMoorhead-West Fargo Parks

BY LIBBY WALKUP hat are your plans this summer? Skip the air conditioning and the road trip to the lakes because the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Park Districts have plenty of activities and events for you and your children to take part in. Tara Ekron, Moorhead Parks and Recreation Special Events Coordinator, says, “Many of our events have free admission and are open to the public regardless of where you live.” There’s art, animals, fiber, music, movies, block parties, plays and food, so ‘get your park on’ this summer. Lacking in the arts and crafts abilities that might keep your children entertained and busy on hot summer days? I know I am. Moorhead Parks and Recreation features the Preschool Art Programs for children aged 3 to 5 and includes

More ENDLESS ACTIVITIES on page 6 Photo courtesy of West Fargo Park District

Above: Youth participating in Art Projects at West Fargo Parks special events. Right: Post Traumatic Funk Syndrome perform at River Arts In Moorhead. Far Right: Creating sun catchers at Community Play Day at Rheault Farm in South Fargo.

Photo by Tara Ekren

Photo courtesy of Fargo Park District Staff

The tri-city state of the arts A conversation with our Mayors

BY DAYNA DEL VAL recently sat down with the three mayors of Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo to talk about the State of the Arts in our greater community. I was really thrilled to hear each of these men talk about how the arts have been important for them in individual ways and to hear them all express their personal belief that the arts are not only important for children but necessary for the overall success of any community. The Arts Partnership’s largest financial contributions come from the three Cities. Our City Arts Partnership Grants, which are given to area nonprofit arts organizations who apply through a formal application process, comprises 60% of the funding we receive from the three Cities. We appreciate

More STATE OF THE ARTS on page 7 Photos by Britta Trygstad

Clockwise from Top: Mayor Voxland, Mayor Walaker, and Mayor Mattern all met to talk about the vibrant state of the arts in our community.

• INSIDE ARTSPULSE •

H I S T O R I C A L & C U LT U R A L S O C I E T Y F E S T I VA L S T H E B O T A N I C G A R D E N S T H E AT E R TA L E S R R V W A T E R C O L O R S O C I E T Y

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NEWS briefs Gooseberry Park Players announces auditions for How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying BY DANA HAAGENSON n its 30th year of providing quality, unique, educational theatre opportunities for youth in the Red River Valley, the Gooseberry Park Players invites students ages 11-18 to audition for its July 2012 production of the Tony and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical comedy, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Cast and orchestra auditions will take place May 16-18 with callbacks May 19 and 20. Advanced audition sign-up is required; call 218-299-3314 to schedule. Auditions will take place at the Frances Frazier Comstock Theatre on the campus of Concordia College, Moorhead. The production features several significant male and female roles. Cast auditions include acting, singing, and dancing. Interested participants should be available for rehearsals June 4â&#x20AC;&#x201C;July 16. Interviews for technicians ages 13-18 can also be scheduled during the audition time frame. How to Succeedâ&#x20AC;Ś is a charming satire of big business set in the early 1960s, when America was full of optimism and ambition, exploring new frontiers, and reaching for the stars. Brimming with unforgettable, high energy musical numbers, this big, bright production has been called â&#x20AC;&#x153;a classic, not-to-be-missed musical treat.â&#x20AC;? Public performances of Gooseberryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s production will take place July 17-22. Tickets go on sale June 4 at 218-299-3314.

NPBGS receives 100 cherry tree seeds BY JOHN ZVIROVSKI he Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, along with other botanic gardens and universities around the US, has been invited to receive 100 cherry tree seeds from the Cherry Blossom Tree Association of Japan. This is in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the US from the people of Japan. These cherry trees still line the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. The selection of seeds received for this most recent gift are Prunus sargentii â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Rehderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, better known as the Northern Japanese Hill or Sargent Cherry. This variety is hardy for our northern region and is considered a fast growing ornamental with its beautiful pink blossoms. The seeds will be grown on the grounds of North Dakota State University until they are mature enough to be transplanted to the Northern Plains Botanic Gardens, located at 1201 18th Ave. N., Fargo. When transplanting begins, these seedlings will make a perfect accent leading guests to the Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Japanese Garden of Mind and Soul, currently in development.

Master Chorale sings a spring concert BY LYNNE PENNEY r. RenĂŠ Clausen directs The Master Chorale of Fargo-Moorhead in a Spring Concert on Sunday, May 6, 2012 at 7 p.m. at Hope Lutheran Churchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South Campus, 3636 25th St. S., Fargo. The Chorale will perform John Rutterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gloria, Leonard Bernsteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chichester Psalms, and will also feature well-known selections of American folk and spiritual music, including Deep River, Ye Followers of the Lamb, Lord of the Dance, An American Hymn, My Faith Looks Up to Thee and more. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (over 65) and $8 for students and can be ordered by calling Lynne Penney at 701-205-0390. Copies of the Choraleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new CD A Choral Sampler will be for sale at the concert for $15 each. Tax-deductible donations can be made to The Master Chorale of FargoMoorhead, P. O. Box 732, Moorhead, MN 56560.

TAP develops a Rural Artist in Residency Program BY DAYNA DEL VAL ast year, The Arts Partnership unexpectedly received a Philanthropy and Youth grant Photo by Dayna Del Val through the Barry Foundation with the stipulation Ben Sung with the Kindergarteners and 1st that we had to spend it on youth programming. graders at Davenport Elementary School. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t traditionally do youth programming, so it required us to put on our thinking hats and figure out what we were going to do. Fortunately, I am friends with the incomparable violinist and FM Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster, Benjamin Sung; I was talking with him about it, and he suggested we bring him in to a rural school to do some workshops. Also fortunately, I know the music teachers at Kindred, ND. The Residency happened in April. Ben met with every elementary student, the 6th grade General Music class, the high school band, the junior high band, the high school choir and the junior high choir over the course of three days. I was uncertain how we would use the PaY money, but because we had to create some way to use it that fit the parameters, I am hopeful that we have actually developed an annual program to get artists out to our rural neighboring schools. It beautifully fits with our mission: cultivating the arts in our community. Thank you to the students, staff and administration at Kindred Public Schools, The F-M Symphony Orchestra for donating some tickets to their weekend concerts, the Barry Foundation for their Philanthropy and Youth program and, of course, to Dr. Benjamin Sung, without whom this might never even have happened.

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MAY/JUNE 2012 A guide to Fargo-Moorhead area arts and culture

Publisher The A r ts Par tnership

VIEW point Out of the fire

Executive Director and M anaging Editor Dayna Del Val Dayna Del Val

Co-managing Editor Kris Kerzman Publications Commit tee Eric Daeuber Lisa Farnham Pam Gibb Kris Kerzman Erin Koffl er Sue Spingler Design and Layout Shawn Olson Co-Founders John Gould Steve Revland Contact us 1 1 0 4 2 nd Ave. S., Suite 3 1 5 Fargo, N .D. 5 8 1 0 3 7 0 1-2 3 7-6 1 3 3 ar tspulse @ thear tspar tnership.net This publication was made possible by the cities of Fargo, M oorhead and W est Fargo through their allocations for ar ts & culture and members of The A r ts Par tnership.

Ar tsPulse is published six times a year by The Ar ts Par tnership. All rights reserved by Ar tsPulse. Reproductions of any kind without written permission are prohibited. The publisher and editor assume no responsibility for unsolicited material, manuscripts or photographs. All materials are compiled from sources believed to be reliable, but published without responsibility for er rors or omissions. A r tsPulse accepts adver tisements from organizations believed to be of good reputation, but cannot guarantee the authenticity or quality of objects, events, or services adver tised. Opinions and / or ideas expressed by authors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Let ters to the editor should include the author’s name, address and phone number. All let ters are subject to editing. Let ters can be submit ted to ar tspulse @ thear tspar tnership.net

Foundation and Institutional Suppor t • Cities of Fargo, M oorhead and W est Fargo • Nor th Dakota Council on the A r ts • Carol L. Stoudt Donor Advised Fund (II) of the Fargo-M oorhead A rea Foundation For calendar listings visit culturepulse.org and for The A r ts Par tnership infor mation visit thear tsparnership.net.

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Executive Director, The Arts Partnership

“The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May.” — Edwin Way Teale

urely those who live in this region work harder to get to May than nearly any other place on the earth. I’m not saying we didn’t have a pretty remarkable winter — easily the warmest in my lifetime — but still…Spring. While the word is gentle and lovely and fresh and hints at perfection, it’s a struggle to get there. When Arthur Miller wrote The Crucible in 1952, he chose the title because of one of the definitions: “A severe, searching test or trial.” Surely we all understand this better than most, temperatureand weather-wise. But I believe that artists understand this word all too well, too. It’s pretty rare that any art worth making, doing, creating, or experiencing didn’t have to go through a severe, searching test or trial. Actors struggle to memorize challenging lines and bring honesty to the stage; musicians sing or play a string of notes until their throats or fingers have nothing left to give; dancers move until their muscles collapse; artists work through version after ver-

sion of a piece, searching for that perfect and often illusive color, shape, texture, message. OK, moment of personal honesty here: I lost my beloved stepfather in February while putting together the March-April issue of ARTSpulse, keeping up the work of The Arts Partnership, and performing in surely the most difficult play and character I have ever taken on. I can honestly say, if I’m never put to such a severe, searching test or trial for the rest of my life, I’ll be content. But, here’s the thing: somehow, I survived. I mostly kept things going at work (because of the help of a lot of great people!); I mostly memorized my lines and played that character to a level I determined was successful; I mostly got the paper out and into your hands (again, with a lot of help!). And, when it was all over, and we had thrown out the last of the funeral flowers, the newspaper was in the stands, and the play was done, I felt a quiet sense of accomplishment and strength. Winter tests us, but so does art. It’s easier to go south for the harshest months; it’s easier to avoid the sometimes bitter work of art, too. Art asks a lot of both the creator and the audience. Sometimes it’s uncomfortable, sometimes even downright offensive, but oftentimes it’s also exactly what we need. Sometimes we need to go through the severe, searching test or trial. Nothing worth having comes without a price. I have to believe that we in the Valley appreciate spring more than others; we know what it took to get here. The same is true of art. This spring, challenge yourselves to head into a crucible of art. Go to an exhibit you don’t know anything about; listen to 20th century orchestral music; go to a play with a challenging topic; take a dance, painting, or art class. You’ll be stunned at how severe the test can be, but you’ll be even more amazed at how you are changed on the other side.

The meaning of the

“metacowboy”

BY MOON PUBLISHING STAFF he title of Fargo poet Rodney Nelson’s new book, Metacowboy, raises a question: What does “metacowboy” mean? “The cowboy and the Deadwood gambler and the Tombstone gunfighter are legendary,” Nelson says in a cover note. “The working cowboy lives on, but so does the metacowboy, without lariat or gun or poker deck and wearing strange boots.” Which partly answers it. Another clue is found in a quote on the acknowledgments page, attributed to one Pecos Andersson: “Him? Well, he wears the hat and knows Johnson County, and he’s never roped a calf to my knowledge.” “Him” being a wannabe wrangler in this case, it would seem. But the poems themselves are where the metacowboy arrives at full definition. This is the poetry of someone who knows outdoor life in the American West, though not per the cattle business. Those “strange boots” are made for hiking. Nelson also draws on the traditions of cowboy poetry — but without rhyme or parody — which is unusual for a contemporary American poet. Metacowboy Lets On to Cattle Kate is like a song. In frontier days, Kate was a ranchwoman on the way to becoming a legend. “Cupid’s cramp” is cowboy dialect for — guess — romantic affliction.

I did not have the word to tell me what you were and I mistook the cupid’s cramp for ache of age the day we met you got to fussing over me and I the same to you and how were we to know there is a word for what you left me in the rain another day at the cantina when we talked but if I wrote it out the two of us would laugh so I am belly through the brush up Kannah Creek Some may remember Nelson as the editor of Dakota Arts Quarterly and author of the novels Home River and Villy Sadness in the eighties. It’s too easy to confuse him with the well-known Rod Nelson of Almont, N.D. — “a true cowboy poet, unlike me,” according to this non-roper of calves. Metacowboy, with its portrait drawing by Moorhead artist and Forum cartoonist Trygve Olson, is available in paperback at the publisher, http://moonpublishprint.com/catalog. The book can also be found on Apple iBooks.

TAP’s annual meeting to be a potluck picnic BY TAP STAFF he Arts Partnership’s annual meeting and Arts Advocate Award event is scheduled to be held in the Main Shelter at Lindenwood Park (1700 5 Street S Fargo) on June 19. The annual meeting will be from 5:30-6, and the Award event will be from 6-7:30. This year, we are hosting a potluck picnic;

TAP will provide the drinks, grilled meat and vegetarian burgers, buns and dinnerware, and we invite you to bring along something to share. This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP to admin@theartspartnership.net or by calling 701-237-6133 by June 10. We hope to see you there!

MAY/JUNE 2012

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MSU Moorhead Straw Hat Players Summer Theatre

Straw Hat June 5 – 8 & 12 – 15, 7:30 p.m. Gaede Stage/Musical/PG

June 19 – 22, 7:30 p.m. Gaede Stage/Comedy/PG-13 for language

This exuberant “musical magazine” brings back the beautiful birds and smashing sounds that made England swing in the ‘60s. Follow the dawning liberation of women with the music of Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark, Cilla Black, and Lulu. While these female icons enjoyed independence and major careers, ordinary English and American women were redefining themselves in the face of changing attitudes about gender.

Return to the golden age of television, circa 1953, behind the scenes of “The Max Prince Show,” the hottest program on the air. Hilarity reigns as the harried writers frantically scramble to top each other with gags while competing for the attention of star madman Max Prince. Filled with nostalgia, classic Catskills humor, and colorful characters, Laughter on the 23rd Floor is bound to have you...well…laughing.

Lucky $tif f

Arsenic & Old Lace

June 26 – 29 Hansen Theatre/Musical/PG

July 10 – 13 Gaede Stage/Comedy/PG

Don’t miss this zany, offbeat murder mystery farce about Harry Witherspoon, an unassuming English shoe salesman forced to take the corpse of his recently murdered Atlantic City uncle on a week-long vacation to Monte Carlo. If Harry succeeds, he inherits six million dollars. If he doesn’t, the money goes to the Universal Dog Home of Brooklyn. With a tuneful score and a well-oiled plot, plus the ultimate happy ending, Lucky Stiff guarantees hilarity for one and all.

Older men take caution! Spinster sisters Abby and Martha Brewster are devoted to charity and family. But they have taken on another project as well – befriending lonely older gentlemen and then poisoning them with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. This comic farce is one of the most popular plays in the history of American theater. You’ll die laughing!

July 19 – 20 & 24 – 27 Hansen Theatre/Musical/PG

Buy Tickets now!

Based on Shaw’s play and Pascal’s movie Pygmalion, this is the musical by which all others are measured. Hear some of the greatest songs ever written: “Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?,” “With a Little Bit of Luck,” “The Rain in Spain,” “I Could Have Danced All Night,” “On the Street Where You Live,” “Get Me to the Church on Time” and “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face.” A great story and songs by Loerner and Loewe – it’s no wonder everyone (not just ‘enry ‘iggins!) falls in love with Eliza Doolittle.

Purchase online or call the MSUM Box Office at (218) 477-2271 M-F from noon to 4 p.m.

www.mnstate.edu/strawhat

Summer Theatre Minnesota State University Moorhead is an equal opportunity educator and employer and is a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system.

MAY/JUNE 2012

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Drawing in the crowds BY DAYNA DEL VAL the economy has diversified; people strong in the visual arts and the different subsections ole Carley has been a significant player in the growth and development of the Fargoof that. One of the interesting things in the last few years has been watching these indepenMoorhead community for over 20 years. As President and CEO of the FM Convention dent theatre groups get created and see how they are doing.” and Visitors Bureau, it has been Carley’s job to get people outside the area to pay attention For those coming from the outside, the arts and culture of this community is more often to this community, to bring their events than not a pleasant, and unexpected, surhere, and to come for what’s already prise. “People have seen the Trollwood going on. production and said, ‘Wow, we didn’t “When we pitch Fargo-Moorhead, expect that!’ Others have been here to see we try to pitch things that people don’t the concerts and the names we can pull expect us to have. In fact, for 10 years in. They are surprised that we could get our promise was ‘More than you expect.’ those people here,” Carley added. Then, we start saying, ‘For instance…’ Reflecting on his time with the CVB, and we talk about the daily jet service to Carley said, “There is a shelf life to this four hub cities, 20,000 college students, job. Sooner or later, you wear out your the Tech Park at NDSU and Microsoft, welcome, and it’s nice to leave before that the arts. People don’t know if we’re happens. I’ve got more yesterdays than making this up or how it could be posI do tomorrows. You start thinking, you sible. The arts are an ingredient in how know, let’s have a little time for us.” we can pitch FM as a great experience,” Thinking about the strengths of this Carley said. community, Carley noted, “I gave a talk Certainly sports, agriculture, and shopon quality of life and had to define it. ping bring people to our community, but For me, it has to do with having choices, the arts are a big draw as well. With our and the more opportunities you have, multiple theatres, museums and gallerthe better the quality of life. The more ies, dance companies and programs, a opportunities you have to be entertained, symphony, youth symphonies, opera, and to give back to the community, to enjoy three campuses producing arts, there’s the community or the more facilities you enough art to satisfy every interest in a have, is a strong precipitator of quality of significant way. life, and we’ve got a lot of that here.” Photo by Emily Klamm “One of the things I have always liked Cole Carley has been instrumental in Cole Carley and Dayna Del Val in front of the infamous wood chipper from the film Fargo. about this community is the diversity of helping get our community on the radar the economy, the fact that it’s largely a of a much broader audience, and the middle class town and the fact that it’s a university town. Those things tend to create an depth and breadth of the arts and culture we have right here have gone a long way towards atmosphere where they appreciate creativity, different kinds of thinking, and I think that’s making his pitch an easier one. Carley leaves the CVB in excellent shape for the next where an artistic community can really thrive,” said Carley. person to step in and continue promoting all the great culture that draws people to our He continued, “It’s nice to see how the arts have diversified much as the community and community.

“The ar ts are an ingredient in how we can pitch FM as a great experience,” Carley said.

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ENDLESS ACTIVITIES: Continued

from page 1

Photo courtesy of West Fargo Park District

drawing, collages, painting and construction projects and the Kids Art Program for children from 9 to 13 that includes activities that “explore their creative side while meeting new friends.” Participants will experiment with 2-D and 3-D art materials and make things inspired by the children as well as well-known artists. All classes run in August. Kim Wangler, West Fargo Park District Recreation Specialist, says she’s “looking forward to having the summer arts program begin. Youth will have the opportunity to use their creativity and take Clay Classes, Crafty Kids Art, Funky Junk Art, Little Picasso’s Painting & Drawing, Cartooning Class with Steve Stark, Scrapbooking and new this year is Jewelry Making.” These classes run throughout the summer. Catch them while you can and then rent a booth at the Fargo Street Fair to start your kids in their art career. Join the Fargo Park District for Park It! The park supplies the materials in this three hour come-and-go free art event. This event, for adults as well as children, allows you to make a project on your own or with the group and will take place in the warming houses so that bathrooms and shade are available. Don’t forget Moorhead’s RiverArts event in Memorial Park, featuring music, horse drawn carriage rides, handmade arts and crafts vendors and activities for kids. As long as you’re hitting up RiverArts, why not head to Fargo Parks Fiber Arts Fest? This event features work by local fiber artists and includes everything from shearing a sheep’s wool on the spot to weaving, sewing, knitting and crocheting. There’s also an opportunity for hands-on learning: the best way to have some fun and appreciate an artist’s talent. Once the kids are busy making art or splashing about in the pools, it’s time to give yourself a little fun. Try the block party nearest your house, the Big Screen Movie Matinee [bring a lawn chair!] or a little music: Carolyn Boutain, Director of

Photo courtesy of Fargo Park District Staff

Top: The 188th Army Band of the ND National Guard will perform at 7:00 Monday, July 30, at North Elmwood Park in West Fargo. Bottom: Poco Fuego performing at Island Park Show in downtown Fargo.

Cultural Activities, Fargo Parks District, says, “We are looking forward to hosting the 188th Army Band [of the North Dakota Army National Guard] in the park this summer!” They will perform July 30 at 7 p.m. in Elmwood Park for free. The Classical Music Fest is a necessary stop on the music. Local music groups, such as the FM Symphony play outside, so bring that lawn chair or a soft blanket and have a listen. Do you have a musical talent to offer the Fargo-Moorhead area? Fargo Park District will be hosting a new music event this year called Music Montage to take place in the Great Northern Bike Shop Plaza. Bring 15 minutes of talent to the open mic or enjoy the show Thursdays June 14, July 12, and August 9 from 6 to 8 p.m.. Last, but not least: all this summer fun will surely make you hungry! Watermelon Festival, July 19 from 2 to 4 p.m. in Gooseberry Park, Moorhead will sate your craving while your children play in the inflatable games from Games Galore, and enjoy face painting and balloon sculpting. Or for tasty items to take home, try West Fargo Park District’s Farmers Market and Beyond. Wangler says it opens Monday, July 9 with “fresh produce, herbs, breads, jams, jellies, flowers and home-based business products as well as hand-crafted items.” The market runs Mondays and Thursdays, July 9 to October 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. in South Elmwood Park. There are many more events to choose from at the Fargo-Moor-

head-West Fargo Parks this summer, including dog walking, a bandstand and much, much more. There’s no need to be bored this summer with all this wonderful outdoor and artsy fun. See www. fargoparks.com, www.wfparks.org and www.cityofmoorhead.com/ parks for more information and schedules.

For more info schedules go to and ...

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STATE OF THE ARTS: Continued

CulturePulse.org

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the long-standing relationship we have had with the three Cities and look forward to a continued positive relationship going forward. TAP: What arts experience(s) has had an influence/impact on you? Mayor Walaker, Fargo (MW): I couldn’t draw. I could draw a set of railroad tracks going into the distance, but my main draw is the beauty of the masters. I usually go to art museums in any city that I’m in, and the depth of the masters is absolutely amazing. Art is such that if you don’t like it that’s fine. There’s so much out there. Mayor Voxland, Moorhead (MV): I was in choir from early on. I’m not a good voice, but I’m a good blending voice. I got a good appreciation of music. I still like to go to choral things because I can still pick out parts. I could never draw, so I always appreciated art for art’s sake. Mayor Mattern, West Fargo (MM): I played the trombone for six years in grade school and high school. Unfortunately, when I went to college, I kind of dropped it, and I wish I could still play it. I should have kept going, but I didn’t. MV: When I first started being an electrician, Jim O’Rourke didn’t have any money, so I did work at the gallery for artwork. I have all sorts of things hanging in the house that I got from that time. Because of that, I collect old maps. MW: We have a significant amount of photography [in our house]. TAP: Measure 2, if that passes, how will that affect an organization like The Arts Partnership, which will, in turn, affect the Partner organizations in our community? MM: I don’t know if anyone knows how it would affect us. All we hear back is the legislature will take care of it. There’s no doubt it would be a negative impact. MW: We set aside one mill for all of the nonprofits, and every year they compete for funding. We don’t pretend that we fund everything. There was some movement that we should suspend the payments until the middle of the year. The non-profits right now are suffering anyway, so we decided to fund one half until after the vote. TAP: What kinds of positive returns do you see from the Cities’ investment in the arts? MW: What it really gets down to is you need a well-rounded community. There are some people who don’t believe that, but that’s what it’s all about. Besides having the infrastructure, this goes well beyond that. MV: What I am seeing is we have more of a culture base. There are more things for people to be doing. I think of Master Chorale, FM Symphony Orchestra, those are the types of things that create the kind of culture you really want to see in the community. If we’re looking at attracting business from Minneapolis, they say, “We’ll never get our people to come up there. What’s up there?” Our small investment in those types of organizations creates the type of community that we want to have, or at least that I want to have, that makes it enticing for people to come in and visit and, more importantly, live. MM: You’re absolutely right that it does attract people. It gives us more to do. A perfect example is Bluestem — look at the concerts they have there. It’s a good example of it gives people more things to do. I just had a call from a woman in Houston, TX. They are

going to move up here, and she grilled me for half an hour about what we have. She was glad to hear about all the arts that we have. It is something I use as talking points. TAP: How can the arts community work to assist our Cities to make them more appealing? What is the appeal to bringing the arts to planning tables as you move your City forward? MM: I would welcome that. With the study, we want to do something downtown. MV: All three of our communities are lacking in public visual art. To really have any of our communities involved in that, we would need a major donor to spark that. We need to have community people come forward, but then we have to make spaces somewhat available so that that type of thing could happen. Beyond the visual, what we really need to do is make sure that arts are part of the discussions. MM: If there’s anything that young people appreciate today it is a bike and walking path, but wouldn’t it be cool to have visual stuff along the way to look at? MW: I don’t know if it’s so important that artists solve problems. They need to continue providing opportunities for people to participate and enjoy the arts. You need to keep it simple. Provide the things that make this a great community. TAP: We have more arts and culture in this community than we have a right to expect. How can we leverage that or how can that be used to your city’s advantage to promote our communities? MM: The arts are all part of a puzzle — good sanitation, roads, the arts, etc. They fit together and you get a thriving community. Cities can grow, but without the arts they are not going to thrive. Everything has to be good — moving traffic, good streets, good arts. That’s how to make good cities work. MV: You can’t be a town that’s all art and grow either, but you can’t flourish if you are missing that important part. With that brings the people who appreciate that type of thing. Those really are the people who have imagination [to make our cities grow]. MW: [The arts are] a huge benefit, there’s no question about it. We get asked this question all the time by people who are considering moving to our community. MM: We’re arts poor in West Fargo. It’s not the fault of the people. It used to be a very blue collar city, and arts were never really pushed at all. Now, we’re completely reversed — white collar city and tons of young people who want the arts, so we’re really kind of behind. MW: We will do what we can to support art to our ability and keep our responsibilities to the tax payers. We have to balance the budget every year just like everyone else does. We’re always trying to find a balance, but I hope everyone understands the value of supporting the arts. MV: We’re in a conservative point in our region’s history. MM: But you can still be conservative and support the arts. We get so involved in trying to balance the books, and sometimes things fall by the wayside in that process. It’s not just art, but that is one of them.

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MAY/JUNE 2012

The Botanic Gardens have awakened into a new growing season BY JOHN ZVIROVSKI he growing season is quickly emerging. The snow has melted and the ground has that sweet smell of wet earth and life again. Spring bulbs are beginning to bloom and others will soon follow. As gardeners, we are experiencing the urge to get our hands back into the dirt to begin planting new items for the year. The perennials from the previous year are quickly coming up to display a wealth of greenery to entice our spirits for this new season. The new growth almost magically appears in front of our eyes with each passing day to send out its summer buds to create a floral tapestry for summer. These displays of life are never more apparent than in the realm of the Northern Plains Botanic Gardens (NPBG) at 1201 28th Ave. N., Fargo. The months of May and June display the most diverse and ever-changing garden scene over any other period during the year. Not only are plants reappearing for the new year, but NPBG members also continue to add new plants into the garden’s color palettes. June 3-9 is National Garden Week, and NPBG will have various events occurring in the botanic gardens during the week to encourage people to enjoy the art of gardening. The botanic gardens will be a showcase of color and variety this season for all to enjoy, and admission to the gardens is free. Take some time and enjoy this horticultural experience on your own or with a group of people to lure your senses into a state of calmness and relaxed serenity. There are many gardens where you can enjoy a variety of specimens. Drift away in the Woodland Garden, where numerous shade plants thrill even the youngest of people. Watch a caterpillar or chase a butterfly around the Alerus Butterfly Gardens near the greenhouse. Encourage the kids to learn the basics of plant names, beginning with the letters from A to Z in the Alphabet Garden. See the chrysanthemums develop in the Mum Testing Gardens, or learn how a Rain Garden functions, develops and survives based on nature’s basic elements. There is a garden for everyone to enjoy, and this is the time to get out in nature and delight in all of the changes that are quickly occurring. If you love to dig in the dirt, just let a NPBG member know what area of the Botanic Gardens interests you, and we’ll will involve you in the projects you enjoy. If you have any questions about these activities, or would like to set up a guided tour through the gardens, contact NPBG at info@npbotanicgarden.com or call 701-281-2568. For additional information about the gardens and getting involved, visit npbotanicgarden.com.

Color abounds in the Alerus Butterfly Garden; one of the many themed gardens that the NPBGS operates.

Photo by Maurie DeGrugillier

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MAY/JUNE 2012

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Two festivals for the price of one Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival and Midwest Viking Festival join forces BY HCSCC STAFF icture a Viking warrior bearing a sword walking beside a little Swedish girl in traditional bunad carrying the Swedish flag. These figures represent the two cultures meeting in what will be two great days of festivals at the Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead, MN. This year, the Nordic Culture Clubs and the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County are partnering to produce two festivals for the daily price of one ticket. June 22 and 23, the 35th annual Scandinavian Hjemkomst Festival will take place indoors, while the 7th annual Midwest Viking Festival carries on outdoors.

More FESTIVALS on page 11

Photos by Colburn Hvidston

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Opposite Page Left: Ciera Johnson carries on the traditions of her elders as a volunteer at the Festival. Opposite Page Right: Red River Dane Maurice Lykke volunteers in the Taste of Scandinavia food court. Left to Right: Stacy Dreis demonstrates Viking Old Norse cooking using an iron tripod and pot, both of which are reproductions of ones found in a ship burial. Silversmiths, Askjel Madalhar & Birte Nellessen, manufacture reproductions of original Viking Age artifacts. They also teach through apprenticeships and demonstrate how the Old Norse used silver. Blacksmith, Daniel Kretchmar, demonstrates iron work using tools and materials similar to those used in Viking Age Scandinavia.

FESTIVALS continued from page 10 “It’s a natural combination,” said Nordic Culture Clubs president Dawn Morgan. The Scandinavians of the Middle Ages will be represented by a Viking village that is set up outside the Viking Ship Park. Artisans practicing the “really old” ways will demonstrate the arts and crafts of the Viking era, including metal forging, glass-bead making, chain-mail making, bone and wood carving, drop-spindle, card weaving and more. Singers will share saga songs, and rune reading and writing will take place amid the smells of wood fires and baking bread. Children will be invited to go on Viking Quest, wherein they earn a bead for their necklace for each Viking activity they try. Artists from Minnesota, North Dakota and states beyond have been invited to share their passion for the medieval days of Scandinavia. Indoors, the sweet scents of rommegrot and ableskiver will fill the air as Scandinavian folk music drifts around three performance stages. Folk dancers in traditional bunads will share the dances of each of the Scandinavian countries throughout the day. Booths will provide demonstrations, exhibits, and items for sale on all four floors of the Hjemkomst Center. This year’s featured country is Sweden, but all of the different Scandinavian cultures will be represented. While the Swedish Heritage Society of the Red River Valley plays host this year, the Red River Danes, Red River Finns, F-M Icelandic Klub, Sons of

Photos by Colburn Hvidston

Norway, and the Saami Circle will all participate. As always, there will be the Taste of Scandinavia food court and performances in Heritage Hall, the auditorium, and the atrium, as well as out in the Hopperstad Stave Church replica. This year, hardanger fiddler Karen Solgard and Viking stav singer Kari Tauring will perform, supported in part by a grant from the Lake Region Arts Council. Special educational presentations will take place in the Ship Theatre, and the best ways to trace one’s Scandinavian heritage will be taught in the genealogy lab. “Visitors can spend the day exploring Scandinavian culture over a long span of time,” said Maureen Kelly Jonason, executive director of the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County. “They may even decide to come back for a second day. There will definitely be plenty for everyone in the family to enjoy.” All of this fun-filled education is available for $10 per day for adults, $5 per day for youths 13-17, and free to kids 12 and under when accompanied by an adult. Stay tuned for specific details as the festivals develop by visiting nordiccultureclubs.org or hcscconline.org. Check out the Midwest Viking Festival Facebook page as well.

MAY/JUNE 2012

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A fresh look at

Gallery 4 BY JEANNIE KRULL he Gallery 4, Ltd. owners/artists have been busy the last three months creating something shiny and new. These artists, usually busy turning out portable work for purchase, put on a new hat and have turned the Gallery into a bright and airy place. The walls have been moved and freshened up with creamy beige paint that collectively shows off the varied artwork. The carpet is gone, and in its place are striking restored terrazzo floors. With 37 years in the Fargo-Moorhead area, the Gallery 4 artists wanted a fresh canvas to showcase their diverse works of art. After a few minor injuries and paint spills, they have accomplished the task. The demographics of the 12 artists who run Gallery 4 are as different as the varieties of their artwork. When you embark upon a journey through the gallery, you will see pottery, natural and digitally manipulated photography, wood turned pieces, pastel portraits, acrylic collage, watercolor and oil paintings, pencil and charcoal drawings, 3-D metal sculpture, basketry, mosaics and jewelry. And that is just in the front entrance. Gallery 4 offers a wide assortment of colors, textures, sizes, and prices, but if you want something specially made for you, many of the artists enjoy making unique pieces specifically for their customers. Just ask and they will work with you to create something ideal. For those of you who want to spread the Fargo phenomenon, Gallery 4 has devoted an entire section to our eclectic, historic city. From jewelry and T-shirts, to posters, cards, prints, and mosaics, you will find that perfect one-of-kind memento for yourself or a unique gift to give. While their parents shop, children can use one of the galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s magnifying glasses to find treasures buried in the glossy resin scattered throughout the gallery. If they find all the hidden items, the child wins a prize. The Gallery 4, Ltd. is located in the Black Building, 114 Broadway, Fargo, and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended hours on Thursday nights during the summer.

Clockwise from Top: The view of the remodeled gallery looking out into the Black Building foyer, featuring mosaics by Kathy Luther on the right. The now airy and open Gallery entrance highlights Jon and Lucy Normannâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wood turnings. There is room for many in this beautifully remodeled, open accessible art space. The antique front desk of Gallery 4 is given a unique look with metal facing. Photos by Dennis Krull

KEEP IT LOCAL. KEEP US UNIQUE.

Vote NO

on Measure 2 Your vote matters. Vote NO June 12 and keep local control of: Local services Infrastructure improvements Parks County Roads/City Streets

Arts Public Schools Law Enforcement Fire Protection

Get involved. Spread the word. Vote. Learn more at www.keepitlocalnd.com Sponsored by Insight To Action LLC & The Arts Partnership Board of Directors

MAY/JUNE 2012

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MAY/JUNE 2012

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Genre-bending cellist heads up a dream team WRITTEN BY TOM HUIZENGA/EDITED BY MARIE OFFUTT o-Yo Ma calls himself a “venture culturalist,” and he’s got the proof to back it up. He’s reached out to a broad range of musicians (and Muppets) to play not just Bach and Beethoven, but also Brazilian samba, Argentine tango, jazz, songs from Sesame Street and a smorgasbord of Asian music with his Silk Road Ensemble. American roots music also figures into Ma’s melting pot: He teamed up with double-bass master Edgar Meyer and fiddler Mark O’Connor 15 years ago for the gentle new-grass album Appalachian Waltz. Ma’s newest Americana adventure is called The Goat Rodeo Sessions — and Prairie Public will air the television production on Friday, May 25, at 8 p.m. CT (check your listings). Meyer is again along for the ride, but this time with two other string virtuosos: mandolinist Chris Thile (of Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers) and veteran bluegrass fiddler Stuart Duncan. The Goat Rodeo music fits right into Ma’s mash-up aesthetic. It’s grounded in bluegrass, but with touches of funk, jazz-like solos and Celtic excursions — all constructed with the rigor of serious classical music. And while each artist is a prominent figure in his own musical sphere, they have come together for this concert to create what critics are now hailing “a most remarkable and organic cross-genre project in which the fire and drive of the bluegrass world meet the clarity and class of the classical music world.” The concert was recorded at Boston’s House of Blues.

The Goat Rodeo music is grounded in bluegrass, but with touches of funk, jazz-like solos and Celtic excursions... Photo by Taylor Crothers/Sony Music Entertainment

Yo-Yo Ma’s latest Americana exploration features his work with mandolinist Chris Thile, bassist Edgar Meyer and fiddler Stuart Duncan.

Theater Tales

The Best Birthday Party Idea EVER!!! Let Theater Tales come to your next birthday party! We teach party goers a song, dance and play, dress up in costumes, perform the play and then watch it on DVD after! Ages 5 and up!

701-412-1533 www.TheaterTales.com

MAY/JUNE 2012

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TAP’s Advocate Partners 2012 Andrew & Miriam Mara

Catalyst Medical Center

Eric & Anna Runestad

Lisa Tate

Sam & Coralie Wai

Bernie’s Wines & Spirits

Erin and Monte Koffler

Mark and Betsy Vinz

Sanford Health

Beth Fortier

Charles and Helen Grommesh

Martha Keeler-Olsen

Susan Spingler

Bonnie Bowman

City of Fargo

FM Convention & Visitors Bureau

Microsoft

Virginia Dambach

Brian Slator

City of Moorhead

Gene Okerlund

NDSU Women’s Club

Burton & Patricia Belknap

City of West Fargo

Green Market Catering

Nem Schlecht

West Acres Development, LLP

Carol L. Stoudt

Davis Anthony Scott

Insight to Action, LLC

Otter Tail Corporation

West Acres Merchant

Carol Zielinski

Dayna Del Val & Andrew Marry

Dr. & Mrs. James McCulley

Randi Martin

Kate Preisler

Roger Minch

Caroll & Jo Engelhardt

Association

TAP’s Primary Partners 2012 Acappella Xpress, Inc.

Fargo Park District

Great Plains Harmony

Andrea Baumgardner

Fargo Theatre

Angels of the Muse

Shanley High School*

Green Purse Group

MSUM College of Arts & Humanities

Fine Arts Club

Harwood Prairie Playhouse

Music Theatre F-M

SoMA Fargo*

Ann Arbor Miller

F-M Area Music Club

Historical & Cultural

New Rivers Press

Spirit Room

Art Connection

F-M Area Youth Symphonies

Nordic Arts Alliance

Studio e

Nordic Culture Clubs

Susie Ekberg Risher

Bachmeier Pottery

Society of Clay County

Sherbanoo Aziz

F-M Ballet

Hotel Donaldson

NDSU

Tangerine Life

F-M Chamber Chorale

Jamie Parsley

The Jass Festival

Camria Ballet Academy*

F-M Drum & Bugle Corps.

Jenna Holt Rheault*

Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society

Carmen Bruhn*

F-M Master Chorale, Inc.

Kathryn Luther

Penny & Pals/Kid Core

F-M Opera

Minnesota Public Radio

Plains Art Museum

Chelsea Thorson*

F-M Symphony Orchestra

Lake Agassiz Concert Band

Prairie Public Broadcasting

Concordia College

F-M Visual Artists

Lake Agassiz Girls Choir

Quilters’ Guild of ND

Density Over Duration Productions

FM Golden Notes New Horizons Band

Learning Bank

Red Raven Espresso Parlor*

Trollwood Performing Arts School

Red River Boy Choir

West Fargo Park District*

Downtown Community Partnership

Friends of the Fargo Public Library

Lepire Academy of Theatre Exploration

Red River Dance &

West Fargo Public Schools

ecce art + yoga

Gallery 4, Ltd.

Eric A. Johnson

Givinity Press

Erika Lorentzsen*

Gooseberry Park Players

Bluestem Center for the Arts*

Carrie Lee Wendt*

Michael J. Strand

Performing Company

Moorhead Area Public Schools

Red River Watercolor Society

Moorhead Parks & Recreation

Rourke Art Gallery & Museum

The Listening Room The Stage at Island Park Theatre B Tin Roof Theatre Company

Willi Nilli *Denotes new Partner since January 1, 2012

THE ARTS PARTNERSHIP’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS Carol Schlossman, Chair Brad Bachmeier, Vice-Chair Beth Fortier, Treasurer Mark Weiler, Secretary

Eric Runestad, Past-Chair Andrew Mara Ellen Shafer Erin Koffler

James Ferragut Michael J. Strand Nicole Crutchfield Shelly Hurt-Geist

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MAY/JUNE 2012

The Arts Partnership directly supports the organizations and programming that you have been reading about in this issue of ARTSpulse through re-granting. You can help support all the arts in the metro area by becoming an Arts Advocate Partner at any level. Join us today! Name_______________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ Telephone _______________________________________________ Email ___________________________________________________

! $10 ! $25 ! $50 ! Other $______________ Please mail to: The Arts Partnership 1104 2nd Ave. S., Suite 315, Fargo, ND 58103 701.237.6133 or go online to donate at TheArtsPartnership.net admin@theartspartnership.net cultivating the arts in our community

MAY/JUNE 2012

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MAY/JUNE 2012

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8th Street Art Show moves to 8th Street in Moorhead BY TAMRA S. KRIEDEMAN or just short of a decade, the 8th Street Art Show and Sale was hosted on the lawns of Shotwell Floral and Garden Center at the intersection of 8th Street and 13th Avenue South in Fargo. That business was recently sold to make room for a new housing complex. The Red River Watercolor Society, which organizes the show, spent months reviewing locations in the Fargo-Moorhead area to see which would best suit this growing art event. The Red River Watercolor Society announces the annual 8th Street Art Show and Sale will be held June 27 and 28, 2012, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at a new location. This year, rows of white tents will be lined up under the shady canopy of Davy Memorial Riverfront Park at 210 8th Street North in Moorhead. And with a new name — 8th Street Art @ Davy Park. The 8th Street Show has a history of excellence and draws in more than 30 artists from Fargo, Moorhead and the region. A variety of art, including acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings, mixed media work, fiber art, jewelry, photography, glass, tile, pottery and metal work, will be on display and for sale during the event.

F Photo by Tamra S. Kriedeman, Just For You Jewelry and Beads

Photo by Abby Tow, Classic Photography Photo by 8th Street Art Show and Sale, Abby Tow, Classic Photography

Photo by 8th Street Art Show and Sale, Abby Tow, Classic Photography

Left Top: Taj Earrings: Antiqued copper wire is shaped into a twisted vine with wire-wrapped crowns of tiny Peridot briolettes. Design by Artist and Metalsmith Tamra S. Kriedeman, Enderlin, ND. Left Middle: Friends, neighbors and art partrons browse and mingle among the rows of white tents. Left Bottom: Artist Jim Ulmer, Ulmer Stoneware of Frazee, MN creates stoneware pottery using a variety of techniques including wheel thrown, slab and extrusion. The raw forms are often altered, incised and stamped to accentuate the plasticity of the clay. The pots are air dried, fired, then layered with glazes and again fired reduction atmosphere. Left: Artist Karman Rheault of Moorhead, MN uses a plasma cutter and welder to create large 3 dimensional steel sculptures. This large butterfly is one of her designs sold at the 2011 8th Street Art Show and Sale. Above: The 8th Street Show and Sale has a history of bringing together talented artists and a variety of art including acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings, mixed media work, fiber art, jewelry, photography, glass, tile, pottery and metal work.

!IT’S ALL! FREE! Saturday, June 9 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.!

★ Special Guest Walkaround Elmo!

Making appearances throughout the day ★

! RHEAULT FARM 2902 25th Street South, Fargo ★ WRITE YOUR OWN BOOK! Enjoy face painting, "snacks, music and fun!! ★ ENJOY MAGIC WITH BEYOND REALITY! !and many more surprise "guests and storytellers! www.prairiepublic.org This Share A Story event is co-hosted by

MAY/JUNE 2012

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Theatre and birthday parties — a winning combination BY THEATER TALES STAFF our child’s next birthday party could take on a theatrical twist. Theater Tales, a recently opened business, brings the arts to kids with a 90-minute party filled with costumes and characters. Theater Tales owner Lynette Burgan will bring a trunk of costumes to your party and teach the partygoers a song, dance and play. The party ends with the kids watching their play on video. There are currently four different themes to choose from and the party goes anywhere you are. “I got the idea for theatre birthday parties from a program I ran back in Colorado called the Kid’s Interactive Theatre Experience,” Burgan said. “We brought interactive theatre to schools and other kids’ organizations, and it was always popular with birthday parties, too.” “Since Fargo has a great love of the arts, it just made sense to start a company here dedicated to theatre birthday parties,” she said This summer Burgan will teach acting classes at Trollwood Performing Arts School, and this fall she is planning on creating a series of classes for kids on how to make movies. “I’ve taught a few acting for TV and film workshops, and I keep thinking that the best way to learn how to act for the camera is to do a whole movie,” she said. “Kids do full theatre productions all the time and they learn a lot from that process. Why can’t we do the same with movies?” Burgan has been working in children’s theatre for the better part of two decades. She holds a master’s from UND in theatre and has previously worked in theatre in Denver and Ohio.

Photos by Christine Welsand

Sophia Welsand and her birthday party.

SUMMER ARTS INTENSIVE 2012 A WEST FARGO SCHOOLS PRODUCTION

August 2, 3 & 4 @ 7:30pm | August 5 @ 2:30pm Tickets available July 23rd at 701-499-1834 or www.WestFargoTheatre.com Performed at West Fargo High School | 801 9th Street East

Conceived and Originally Directed and Choreographed by Michael Bennett Book by James Kirkwood & Nicholas Dante | Music by Marvin Hamlisch

Don’t Miss This Additional Red River Valley Water Color Society Event!

National Watermedia Exhibition June 17 - September 16, 2012 Hjemkomst Center

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WILLI NILLI Susanne Williams

Winner of the 2010 and 2011 NICHE Awards for Fiber: Surface Design Juried into all 2012 American Craft Council Shows Available at Ecce Art Gallery, 216 Broadway, Fargo

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St. Paul San Francisco