How We Began... Notice something different about the AAI logo on the newsletter? Yep, Alpine Artisans is celebrating its 20th Anniversary—a time to look back on our beginnings, a chance to gauge how far we’ve come. Like the legendary phoenix, Alpine Artisans, Inc. arose from the ashes of an earlier group, the Seeley Lake Arts and Crafts Club. This group put on an annual 4th of July art show and sale, but by 1990 interest and membership had dwindled to the point where the decision was made to disband the Club. Yet a few of its members envisioned another kind of group, one driven by a sense of art, dedicated to encouraging artistic creativity in one another, and committed to sharing their talents with the community. Reaching out to others who shared similar goals, Jeanne Moon, Cindy Torok, Cathy Rapp, Jim Kyle, Marion Burmeister began holding meetings. From the beginning, both artists and supporters were invited to participate. The group spent almost a year discussing their goals and purpose. Jim is credited with insisting on the word “Artisans” to convey the difference between art and bazaar type crafts. Jeanne, a calligrapher, designed the signature AAI logo. Jeanne and Cindy formulated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws based on an evaluation of similar documents from other organizations. In September of 1991, Alpine Artisans officially declared itself in the Pathfinder and announced its first public event, “The Community Art Show” to be held at the Seeley Lake Community Hall. Cindy refers to it as “the first Show and Tell” because the emphasis was not yet on selling but rather on demonstrating the array of artistic talent in the valleys. By this time, Alan Taylor had joined the group, expanding Alpine Artisans membership to the Condon area; Bob and Ruth Korn joined shortly after. Jeri Netherton, owner of the Stage Station and one of the organization’s first business members, began allowing artists to display their works in her store. Buoyed by their swelling enrollment, the success of their first showing, Jeri’s encouragement, and the support of the Pathfinder , the group decided to stage their first art sales event— Loon & Fish Festival. (see back page of this issue for more details) During the 1994 tenure of Co-Presidents, Bob and Ruth Korn, the organization navigated the legal intricacies of non-profit status, and Alpine Artisans became Alpine Artisans, Incorporated. Bob and Ruth are also credited with initiating the Wine & Chocolate Socials. They envisioned a fundraiser focused on providing scholarships for local high school students. Marion Burmeister reports the group decided on “a combination sale and social evening, something elegant,” and Jeanne adds they all saw it as an opportunity to showcase their work to out-of towners. Marilyn Peterson volunteered The Emily A as a venue and, despite Jeanne’s arguments for an October/ November date (people’s thoughts turning toward holiday buying; more time Look at us now... Special Events/Festivals ~ Loon & Fish Festival ~ Wine & Chocolate Social ~ Tour of the Arts ~ Crown of the Continent Summer Event Community Outreach ~ 2VS performances ~ Open Book Club ~ Community Cinema ~ Art Display in Seeley Swan Medical Center ~ Snow Sculpture judging Student Outreach ~ 2VS informances/workshops ~ High School Sr. Scholarships ~ Scholarship Endowment Fund ~ Youth Grants ~ 5th Grade Trip to MAM ~ Art Mobile to local schools ~ in-school art workshops/ ~ Salmon Prairie School Outreach and there's more... (con't. p. 4) (continued on p. 4) 2 0 t h A N N I V E R S A R Y 2011 1991
Transcript
How We Began...Notice something different about the AAI logo on the newsletter? Yep, Alpine Artisans is celebrating its 20th Anniversary—a time to look back on our beginnings, a chance to gauge how far we’ve come.
Like the legendary phoenix, Alpine Artisans, Inc. arose from the ashes of an earlier group, the Seeley Lake Arts and Crafts Club. This group put on an annual 4th of July art show and sale, but by 1990 interest and membership had dwindled to the point where the decision was made to disband the Club. Yet a few of its members envisioned another kind of group, one driven by a sense of art, dedicated to encouraging artistic creativity in one another, and committed to sharing their talents with the community. Reaching out to others who shared similar goals, Jeanne Moon, Cindy Torok, Cathy Rapp, Jim Kyle, Marion Burmeister began holding meetings. From the beginning, both artists and supporters were invited to participate.
The group spent almost a year discussing their goals and purpose. Jim is credited with insisting on the word “Artisans” to convey the difference between art and bazaar type crafts. Jeanne, a calligrapher, designed the signature AAI logo. Jeanne and Cindy formulated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws based on an evaluation of similar documents from other organizations. In September of 1991, Alpine Artisans officially declared itself in the Pathfinder and announced its first public event, “The Community Art Show” to be held at the Seeley Lake Community Hall. Cindy refers to it as “the first Show and Tell” because the emphasis was not yet on selling but rather on demonstrating the array of artistic talent in the valleys.
By this time, Alan Taylor had joined the group, expanding Alpine Artisans membership to the Condon area; Bob and Ruth Korn joined shortly after. Jeri Netherton, owner of the Stage Station and one of the organization’s first business members, began allowing artists to display their works in her store. Buoyed by their swelling enrollment, the success of their first showing, Jeri’s encouragement, and the support of the Pathfinder, the group decided to stage their first art sales event—Loon & Fish Festival. (see back page of this issue for more details)
During the 1994 tenure of Co-Presidents, Bob and Ruth Korn, the organization navigated the legal intricacies of non-profit status, and Alpine Artisans became Alpine Artisans, Incorporated. Bob and Ruth are also credited with initiating the Wine & Chocolate Socials. They envisioned a fundraiser focused on providing scholarships for local high school students. Marion Burmeister reports the group decided on “a combination sale and social evening, something elegant,” and Jeanne adds they all saw it as an opportunity to showcase their work to out-of towners. Marilyn Peterson volunteered The Emily A as a venue and, despite Jeanne’s arguments for an October/November date (people’s thoughts turning toward holiday buying; more time
Look at us now...Special Events/Festivals~ Loon & Fish Festival~ Wine & Chocolate Social~ Tour of the Arts~ Crown of the Continent
Summer Event
Community Outreach~ 2VS performances~ Open Book Club~ Community Cinema~ Art Display in Seeley Swan
Medical Center~ Snow Sculpture judging
Student Outreach~ 2VS informances/workshops~ High School Sr. Scholarships~ Scholarship Endowment Fund ~ Youth Grants~ 5th Grade Trip to MAM~ Art Mobile to local schools~ in-school art workshops/~ Salmon Prairie School
Outreach
and there's more... (con't. p. 4)(continued on p. 4)
20th ANNIVERSARY
20111991
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Rethinking Wine & ChocolateWhat a delightful way to celebrate Valentine's Day—nibbling chocolate-laden appetizers, sipping wine, and listening to live music courtesy of Scott Milner, Joost Verboven and Andrea Bourne. And the pièce de résistance?
—meandering through the amazing array of artwork created by members of Alpine Artisans and at trac tively situated throughout two rooms at Lindey's Steakhouse. Renee Taaffe, Curator of Education for the Missoula Art Museum, had already juried the art during its previous week's stay at 1st Valley Bank. So 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons already adorned Lynn Perry's pastel, "First Snow on the Missions"; Steve Ellis' silver gelatin print, "Holland Lake and Falls"; and Jennifer Dyer's basket, "Half Moon." The result of the People's Choice vote added Jeri Watson's copper enamel plate, "Earth," to the ribbons list.
The glow felt by the many volunteers who had worked so hard behind the scenes to make W&C 2011 a success was somewhat marred, however, when the final financial statistics came in.
Of the 12 live auction pieces, only 6 sold; of the 33 silent auction pieces, only 16 sold. This ratio of about half the displayed items selling mirrored the 2010 W&C. More discouraging, however, were the statistics showing that ticket sales had dropped from $1027 last year to $796 this year; that the amount artists realized from sales dropped from $2007 to $1977; that AAI's net profit dropped from $1639 to $1185. Perhaps most disconcerting of all, the amount of money tagged for scholarship funding dropped from $937 last year to $385 this year (in 2010, the proceeds from raffle tickets were specifically designated for the scholarship fund; this year AAI members had not been asked to donate items for a raffle, instead the entire proceeds from specific live auction items were designated for scholarships).
A sober wrap-up committee tossed around suggestions for improving Wine & Chocolate 2012:
— issue personal, written, invitations—not only to AAI members but mine our database for out-of-area people
— provide an option for people to donate if they can’t attend— advertise more and in more places — join with businesses to provide a complete package: one night's lodging
combined with a ticket to Wine and Chocolate and a meal at a local restaurant — build on the exhibit at the Bank: have a wine and cheese reception, perhaps
with music, enabling folks to meet the artists—perhaps Friday or Saturday night before the event.
— have a committee jury the work, rather than a single, hired juror—choose 1st Place for painting, photography, sculpture, jewelry, pottery, etc., with one Best of Show ribbon
— provide extra incentives for members to attend—perhaps a special raffle item, or an extra raffle ticket or two
— and, of course, the perennial suggestion came up once again to change the date of the event from Valentine's Day to a time when the weather is more predictable and more "snow bird" residents have flown back to the area.
Long time AAI members who have worked on W&C through the years will recognize most of these suggestions as ones which have been offered, perhaps even carried out, in past years.
In the end, Russ Abolt made a formal motion that the committee recommend to the Board of Directors that henceforth Alpine Artisans' Wine & Chocolate be considered primarily a social event. Furthermore that the event consist of
— a critique of submitted art pieces through a jury-by-committee that would determine category winners as well as Best of Show
— the sale of submitted art pieces through silent auction only— a raffle, the entire proceeds of which would be designated for scholarships— the announcement and honoring of Art Benefactor(s)
The motion was seconded by Georgina Staggs and carried unanimously.
As a corollary, Russ recommended that the Crown of the Continent Auction in the summer be Alpine Artisans' main live auction event.
Outstanding Art AdvocatesOne of the eagerly anticipated rituals of Wine & Chocolate is the naming of the person (or couple) to be singled out for special recognition for their support of the arts in our valleys. Presenter Martha Swanson drew out the suspense before finally revealing this year's Arts Benefactor Award recipients.....*drum roll*......Chris and Bud Jewett!
The announcement elicited many nods of approval, for anyone active in AAI knows that the Jewetts ' involvement with the arts goes far beyond their own careers as nature photographers. Chris served on the AAI Board for four years, including a term as President. She has volunteered to be Event Chair for both Wine & Chocolate and Loon & Fish and was instrumental in shepherding Tour of the Arts through its tenuous early years. Again and again at numerous AAI events, she has volunteered her Interior Design expertise to transform eclectic pieces of art into stunning visual displays. Meanwhile Bud worked selflessly behind the scenes, serving as Facility Manager for various events, or coordinating shuttle transportation to and from them, or helping pack and unpack the Art Mobile on its annual visit to the schools.
Our valleys are richer because of the dedication of Chris and Bud Jewett, and to show AAI's appreciation, Martha presented them with an item she knew they would especially like—a woven Mexican rug from the Grizzly Claw Trading Company.
AAI Calendar of Events
April 13 -Open Book Club - Ruth McLaughlin
Bound Like GrassGrizzly Claw Trading Co. - 7:00pm
April 16 -Community Cinema
Facing the StormGrizzly Claw Trading Co. - 7:00pm
April 30 -Open Book Club - David Emmons
Beyond the American PaleGrizzly Claw Trading Co. - 7:00pm
May 1 -2 Valleys Stage - Philip Aaberg
Seeley Swan High School - 3:00pm
May 14 -Community Cinema
Facing the Storm:Swan Valley Comm. Hall - 7:00pm
May 27set up for Loon & Fish Festival
Seeley Lake Elementary School 5:00pm - 7:00pm
May 28-29 Loon & Fish Festival
Seeley Lake Elementary School Saturday 10:00am - 5:00pm
Volunteers are neededAlpine Artisan HistorianGather and arrange in binders news articles, AAI newsletters, and other printed materials concerning Alpine Artisans, its programs, events, and [email protected]
Motivated Person(s) who love the mission of 2 Valleys Stage and willing to assist with various aspects of running the 2VS Performing Art Series; specific tasks will be assigned according to interest; benefits include great job satisfaction, fun colleagues, fun meetings (about once a month); free season tickets. [email protected]
Help Wanted
Look at Us Now (continued)
Member Enrichment~ Show-n-Tell Potluck~ Artist-to-Artist potluck/
studio visits~ Art Educator Grant~ Starving Artists Grants~ field trips to galleries/
cultural centers
Communications~ bi-yearly newsletter ~ website : www.alpineartisans.org~ member email updates
In Memory of RuthOne of our early members and a dear friend, Ruth Korn, died in January after years of ever increasing problems caused by her Parkinson’s disease. Ruth was amazing in her ability to smile and find joy in life even as her health deteriorated. She was above all a devoted partner to her husband Bob, a mother, an extraordinarily gifted primary school teacher beloved by generations of former students, and a friend.
Ruth and Bob worked in and for Alpine Artisans for virtually all of its 20 year history, sometimes as Co-Presidents, as VPs, as Event Chairpersons, and as critics and supporters. Ruth's passing saddens us all, but we are grateful for the privilege of having known her. Our hearts go out to Bob at his loss.
between L&F and W&C; better weather to draw more out-of towners—sound familiar?) a February date close to Valentine’s Day was decided upon.
From the very first planning sessions, Jeanne and Cindy had maintained that the organization ought to focus not just on selling and making money but also on activities that were fun and enriching for the members. So art workshops were part of the picture early on. Individual members invited the whole group to their homes and studios to demonstrate and share their love for woodworking, pottery, painting, calligraphy, basket making, etc.; they arranged for outside professionals to give classes in sketching, African bead work, Chinese ink painting, marketing. They had Christmas parties and summer Show-and-Tells. Alan Taylor even arranged for a piano concert as early as 1992. It took place at the high school gym and the entire community was invited to hear Patricia Burge (1991 Colorado Composer of the Year).
Exposing kids to the arts was also an early goal for Alpine Artisans, one which especially flourished under the leadership of the Korns. Jim Kyle remembers taking his scroll saw to the school and making little wooden Christmas trees; Cindy introduced sculpture to 5th and 6th graders; Joy Clemens led a jewelry making workshop and taught mask making for Halloween; and Bob and Ruth introduced youngsters to a potter’s wheel.
To keep members in touch with one another, to inform them about AAI happenings, and to alert them of art-related activities in the wider community, a newsletter was started—one which received complimentary recognition from the Montana Arts Council (Barbara Willing and Charlotte West were early editors). Later, Jennifer Dyer began sending out postcards to notify members of important events (the precursor to today’s email bulletins). Ron Ukrainetz designed the 1st AAI brochure. It encapsulated the philosophy, goals, and accomplishment of Alpine Artisans Inc, and extended an invitation to artists and lovers of the arts to join in something welcoming and wonderful.
How We Began... (continued)
5
Let’s give them a big round of applause!
Without their support, 2VS performances
would not be possible.
Check out the names in the Sidebars on the next
two pages. Those
Wonderful Folks have contributed generously
to bring the
2 Valleys Stage
Performing Arts Series
to you again this year..
Annual MeetingPotluck dinners have long been the first course at AAI meetings and get-togethers. (Some of our older members still recall the time they decided to bring “artistic food”—Ruth Korn painted a picture in frosting on her cake and Jeanne Moon brought a salad garnished with nasturtiums!) So nothing could have been more fitting at the 2011 AAI Annual Meeting than to follow up the traditional potluck with a toast of sparkling cider and the cutting of an Alpine Artisans 20th Anniversary cake, decorated courtesy of Patricia Bouta. Members also voted on their favorite among three choices of 20th Anniversary logos designed by Kris Gullikson.
The meeting proper began with President Merrily Dunham reporting on the success of AAI’s newest endeavor, The Crown Community Cinema. She also discussed the many opportunities the organization provides for the students in our schools, the newest being mini art workshops for children attending Salmon Prairie School. Treasurer Carol Brodie reported that the 2010 AAI general budget was kept in check and expenses in 2011 are expected to be comparable. The Scholarship fund had a little over $1,000 at year end, but the amount available for 2011 scholarships and Youth Grants will largely be determined by the amount received from the Wine & Chocolate Social. Program Coordinator and 2VS Director, Scott Milner, reported that he was gratified with the results of the business sponsorship campaign for 2 Valleys Stage as well as the success of individual fundraising events. He also asked the membership to give him feedback on whether they wanted to continue (and expand?) the Renaissance Festival held in conjunction with the autumn Shakespeare in the Park production.
Another order of business involved Bylaw changes. The proposed changes dealt with clarification of Board representation; officers terms of office; the timing of an annual audit; and how best to notify members of important meetings. Discussion primarily centered on appropriate wording. Three of the Bylaws were amended; the one dealing with notification of meetings was sent back to the Board to be reworked and re-presented at a later date. The other major order of business was filling three expired Board positions. The Nominating committee presented three candidates for the vacant positions: Lee Boman, Georgia Shane, and Merrily Dunham (who agreed to run as CAC liaison). The members unanimously approved all candidates and a short meeting of the new Board named Carla Schade as new President, Lee Boman as Vice President and Membership Coordinator, Carol Brodie as Treasurer, Georgia Shane as Secretary, Merrily Dunham as CAC Representative, and Bob Green as 2VS Representative.
Members then broke into small groups for discussion. Topics ranged from a general evaluation of AAI and its programs, to fundraising, to how to continue celebrating our 20th Anniversary throughout the year. But the subject that seemed to draw the most interest and lengthiest discussions focused on membership growth. Details about all aspects of the 2011 Annual Meeting can be accessed in the Members Only section of our website (alpineartisans.org
— NOTE: the password is being changed. The new password will be enailed (to members who have their dues paid up) around April 1st, and will become effective on April 15th.
Montana Island LodgePrudential Montana Real Estates
ReMarkable Cleaning ProRohrer Film & Video
Seeley Lake Auto BodySeeley Swan Medical Center
Seeley Swan PharmacySwanWoods
Cultural Arts Corridor Report2010 Tour of the Arts Wrap-UpBy general consensus, Tour of the Arts 2010 was declared a great success. Several members commented on the record number of people visiting studios and business venues. Georgina Staggs a guest artist at Abolt's Spirithome this year, reported with some amazement that she sold 90% of what she brought.
Continued group discussion centered on the scheduling of the 2011 Tour. Suggested options included a "First Saturday" open studio each month during the summer, or a tour weekend each season. Merrily recommended one weekend in mid-summer and a second in conjunction with Tamaracks Festival. After discussion of pros and cons, the CAC group unanimously voted to implement Merrily's plan. Of course, most of the studios will continue to be available year round for private or small group studio visits by appointment.
Note: If you would like to participate in the 2011 Tour of the Arts, or wish to change a photo or publicity details used in promotional materials for last year's Tour, please contact Scott (677-0717) or Martha (793-5706) asap. Promo materials need to be printed in time for Loon and Fish Festival.
Display BoothsThe group agreed that having a booth—and now a tent—at Littlebird's summer Marketplace creates good visibility and publicity for Alpine Artisans. Carla Schade reported that our booth at the Tamarack Festival was also a valuable tool for promulgating AAI in general and the Tour in particular. She suggested that it could have an even greater impact if the booth contained a sample piece of artwork from each of the Tour studios.
Crown of the Continent EventA big topic for discussion at the CAC meeting was what shape the annual Crown of the Continent Celebration should take this year (past events have included fundraisers and simple appreciation gatherings). A fundraiser which included a juried live auction was proposed, but some questioned whether the group had the energy or interest for such an extensive undertaking at this time. John Mercer suggested holding the Celebration in connection with the summer Tour weekend. A working group composed of Scott Milner, John Mercer, Larrine and Russ Abolt, Jenny Rohrer and Merrily Dunham will follow up on these suggestions and will also consider the feasibility of a live auction and/or having the art juried.
Open Book ClubThe Open Book Club hosted by the Grizzly Claw Trading Co. continues to
draw crowds of 20 to 60 interested folks. Recent authors have introduced books relating to sports (Doug Ammons'
White water Philosophy; Stan Cohen's Downhill Montana), to art (William Farr's Julius Seyler and the Blackfeet: an Impressionist at Glacier National Park), to gardening (Jeremy Smith's Growing a Garden City), to Glacier National Park (Donna Love's The Totally Out
There Guide to Glacier National Park), and to poetry (courtesy of Cedar Brant, Roger Dunsmore, and Jenni Fallein, members of the BentGrass poetry
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Swan Valley Performing Arts
SupportersRuss & Larrine AboltBob & Sue Cushman
Anne DahlSteve & Betsy Ellis
Thomas & Joan McGuireSandra & David Pogge
Katherine & William BeersThomas and Mary Fitzsimon
John Mercer & Colleen HarringtonJanice Mielke
James & Terry QuinnJenny Rohrer
Betsy SpettigueAlan Taylor
Gene & Patricia TingleJune Ash
Nina MonsonJerye Motschman
Roger & Jerry WatsonJill & Rich Wiseman
Dorothea Wood
2VS Individual Supporters
Jeff & Pat ArestyK J Bell
Chris & Katrina StoutJoyce & Don Bissell
Doris LuckmanSusan & Jack Novosel
Elden & Carolyn BarbieriLee & Judy Boman
Rolland & Peggy MeinholtzMary Miester & Doug Anderson
Miriam Hertz & Scott MilnerClark & Sandi Ridgeway
Bob GreenKen & Susan Dvorak
Florence FenstedClaudia Kux
troupe). The variety of topics and each author's passion for his or her work provides a very rich and rewarding experience.
Dee Baker and his crew at the Grizzly Claw have plans to fit more readings in before the summer months' increased store traffic makes meetings impractical. Ruth McLaughlin, winner of the 2011 Montana Book Award, will be coming on April 13th to introduce her book, Bound Like Grass. On April 30th David Emmons will be talking about his impressive research which resulted in Beyond The American Pale, The Irish in the West 1845-1910.
Crown of the Continent Community CinemaThe Cinema series has received an enthusiastic reception in both Condon (17 to 50 attendees) and Seeley Lake (50 to 100). And more great films are coming...
- Facing the Storm: The Story of the American Bison Sat. April 16th at the Grizzly Claw (7pm); Sat. May 14th at the Valley Community Hall (7pm)
filmmker Doug Hawes-Davis will attend
- Jailed for their Words: How Free Speech Died in Wartime America: Sat. May 28, Grizzly Claw (7pm)— filmmaker Gita Saedi Kiely will attend
- Wasteland, (a 2011 Oscar Nominated Documentary) mid-July in Seeley Lake and Condon
The Cinema Committee will also meet to decide on summer and fall programing. They welcome everyone's participation and suggestions!
Opening OpportunitiesLynn Ingham, publisher of NewWest.net, described a potential publicity and sales opportunity for AAI artists at the May 5-6 “Rise of the Rockies” Conference in Missoula (for more information, check the AAI website under Art Calls).
Merrily Dunham reported that Grace Siloti is interested in extending an opportunity for AAI artists to display at the Mission Mountain Mercantile in Condon.
Merrily also mentioned the possibility that AAI artists could have an exhibit at the Bigfork Museum of Art next year.
FinancialsJenny Rohrer presented the CAC income and expenses for 2010. Carry over from previous year: $887; raised: $6,231; spent: $7,088.74. She noted that the Cinema Series and Open Book Club essentially are self sustaining, but roughly $3,000 will need to be raised for publicity materials connected with the 2011 Tour of the Arts. Jenny also pointed out that it is becoming more and more difficult to obtain grant money.
Peer EvaluationsFollowing the business meeting, six members (Bob Korn, John Mercer, Scott Milner, Jim Hewes, Colleen Nicholson and Russ Abolt) shared recent work and received feedback and comments—very inspiring!
Tjay on top of the world
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Questioning the Arts “Why don’t they have mouths?” inquired a puzzled 2nd grader from Seeley Lake Elementary, pointing to one of the paintings on the Gallery “wall” which Allison McGee of Art Mobile of Montana had erected in the school’s
All-Purpose Room. The question was the perfect springboard for Allison to lead the students in a discussion of how a painter could suggest without actually depicting— a nose that wasn’t really a nose but simply a curving brush stroke, and yet you knew a nose was there —a mouth that wasn’t there, yet should be, and made you wonder what it would be like to not have a mouth, not to be able to talk.
Yes, Allison and the Art Mobile once again worked their magic, first on the students of Swan Valley School and then on the 2nd and 3rd graders of Seeley Lake Elementary. A wonderful array of oil painting, watercolors, bead work, photography, ceramics, and mixtures thereof were on display for the students to be intrigued by, to marvel at, to ask questions about.
At Swan Valley, students even had time to create their own art project. Allison introduced the concept of contour drawing by having the kids hold one hand in front of them in any position and draw it with the other hand. Then repeat the procedure with a different hand position, and then another, overlapping the shapes on the paper. She then provided colored pencils, markers, and pastel chalks and directed them to color in the spaces – allowing their imaginations to evolve the drawing into a new creation.
Each year Alpine Artisans, Inc. helps underwrite the cost of bringing the Art Mobile of Montana to our local schools. As artisans and lovers of the arts ourselves, we embrace this exciting opportunity to provide this early exposure to the arts to the children in our valleys.
AAI Judges on Top of It Clipboards in hand, an AAI judging team composed of Larrine Abolt, Jeff Aresty, Tjay Warneke, Jenny Rohrer, Jennifer Dyer, Lynn Ingham, and Heinz & Sandy Eisinger, studiously inspected the 16 entries for the annual Seeley Lake Winterfest Snow Sculpture Contest.
Donna Love, entered in the Adult Professional category, took top place (and $75) for artistic merit of her "Stage Coach" (complete with a driver—inspired by her grandfather who actually drove a stage and sported a handlebar mustache.) The Trail Blazer 4H received $75 for their “Dreaming of Spring” entered in
the Big Kids/Little Kids category In addition, a complimentary AAI membership was awarded to a new family for their entries
"Light Bulb" and "Rapunzel."
Connecting the Dot
Check the AAI website for more information, photos, links, and up-to-the-minute news. New Tab - Art Calls - listing
of calls for art and of workshops from all around the state (Art CAlls tab). profile of the Art Benefactor Award recipients, Chris & Bud Jewett (About AAI tab - CommunIty ContrIbutIons). 2011 L&F T-shirt design plus designs from past L&F (AnnounCements tab). continually updated AAI events calendar (AAI events main tab) keep your eye out for bowl decorating with Bob Korn. minutes from the 2011 AAI Annual Meeting (members only tab - note new password info at end of sidebar). schedule of Community Cinema showings (CotC CInemA tab). winners and lots of color photos from the Winterfest Snow Sculpture Contest (About AAI tab - CommunIty ContrIbutIons). schedule of upcoming Open Book Club authors, and review of previous readings (open book Club tab). photos and information on upcoming and past 2 Valleys S tag e Performan c es ( 2 vAlleys stAge tab - 2010-11)
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alpineartisans.orgNote: the username and password for the Members only section of the website will be sent to paid up AAI members by email shortly after April 1. The new password will go into effect by April 15.
. report and color slideshow on 2011 Art Mobile visit to our local schools ( About AAI tab For Our Youth). particulars on applying for a Youth Grant (For our youth on About AAI tab). information on the new “Starving Artists Grant” (members only tab - note new password info at end of sidebar). report and pictures from 2VS Informances and Workshops (2 vAlleys stAge tab InFormAnCes). profiles of AAI New Members (members only tab). Artists in the Spotlight—notice of special recognition received by AAI members and links to newspaper and other articles (AnnounCements tab). photos of the Road Trip to the Kalispell Art Foundry (AAI events main tab)
and don’t forget to check out . . .. the online Artists Gallery. the list of AAI Supporters. the AAI Store. the forms, reports, and other info for Members Only (be sure to note the new Members Only user name and password below)
In the SpotlightTjay Warneke was featured in the Pathfinder (Feb.10) and also in the Missoulian (Mar. 7). The articles highlight his work on the SLE mural. Both articles and color photos can be accessed on the AAI website (alpineartisans.org)
Jenny Rohrer's first film, "The Chicago Maternity Center Story," was remastered and re-released at the Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago to a sell-out crowd on January 29.
Jennifer Dyer had two pieces selected for "Couplings," an international exhibition at Gallery 110 in Seattle. Her basket sculptures were on display through the month of February.
Throughout the month of March, Ken Dvorak's nature photography graced the walls at the office of NewWest.net on Higgins Ave.
Merrily Dunham is coordinating the Watercolor Plein Art Show in Bigfork in July (contact her for info). Merrily serves on both the AAI Board and also the Montana Watercolor Society Board.
Alpine Artisans, Inc. was the subject of investigation for one of the students at Northwest Connections. Sean Donovan chose "Art in Rural Communities" for his final project. His research involved learning about AAI programs and visiting several artist studios. His conclusion: art is thriving in the Seeley Swan area.
Our Newest MembersChris & Katrina Stout have become official members of Alpine Artisans. An avid supporter of AAI's various student programs, Chris (who is Superintendent at Seeley Lake Elementary School) believes that exposure to the arts is an important part of every child's education. Katrina is a librarian at Seeley Swan High School and a strong advocate for young adult literacy.
Thomas Boelman formerly of Michigan, now calls Missoula home. He is experienced in Theatrical Design, is a self employed carpenter specializing in remodeling and additions, and lately has devoted his time to watercolor painting. His work, largely Inspired by memories of life on a small farm which harbored an old vineyard, can be viewed at www.BoelmanStudios.com.
Karen Pratt, former gardener and fish biologist has been exploring the leatherworking craft. She chose Wine & Chocolate 2011 as her debut venue and entered a leather handbag which was widely admired (and which sold!). Karen loves hiking, backpacking, and cross country skiing.
Tjay & Nikita Warneke moved to Seeley Lake last summer. Tjay is an accomplished airbrush painter and the couple immediately endeared themselves to their new community by volunteering to paint a floor-to-ceiling mural in the junior high hallway at Seeley Lake Elementary School. The project got temporarily interrupted when son, Noah, was born on February 23 (51/2 weeks early)—a little worrisome for his parents, but he is home with them now and everyone is doing fine.
Opportunities for Artists
- get your art pieces ready for Loon & Fish 2011
- arrange to have your artwork disp layed at a 2 Va l leys Stage Concert (677-0717)
- notify Scott of recognition your artwork has received, so we can put you in the Spotlight (677-0717)
- arrange to have your art displayed at the Seeley Swan Medical Center (677-2783)
- contact Scott about a listing in the Artists’ Gallery on the AAI website (677-0717)
- don't forget to check the website for Art Calls
2011 Membership FormMembership category: Individual ($25) Family ($35) Business ($45) Youth under 21 ($10) New
Sustaining Member* $______/month … or … $____ one time annual donation
Type of membership: Supporter of the Arts Artist (for pleasure, for livelihood, or both)
Brief Description of Art Medium:
Name(s):
Business name: Web site:
Mailing address:
City, State, Zip:
Telephone: E-mail address:
The ongoing success of Alpine Artisans is due to its artists and amazing volunteers. May we count on you to help out now and then? Yes, give me a call! No, I’d prefer not.
YES! I want to help AAI achieve its mission and outreach activities with the enclosed donation (you will receive a receipt acknowledging your tax deductible donation)
$ for Youth Grants and Scholarship $ for 2 Valleys Stage Programs $ to promote & preserve the Arts
please make your check payable to Alpine Artisans Inc. and mail with this form to P.O. Box 841 ¡ Seeley Lake, MT 59868
* Sustaining Member dues can be paid as a once a year contribution or as an automatic monthly deduction from a credit card or First Valley account. Questions? Contact Carol Brodie, AAI Treasurer, at 677-6156 or [email protected]
Energy, Ideas, Resources!New members bring energy, ideas, and resources to Alpine Artisans. New members keep Alpine Artisans fresh by providing representation from all generations and diverse backgrounds. New members become new volunteers, new advocates, and generate new possibilities. Perhaps most importantly, having a sustained flow of new members means Alpine Artisans will continue providing art-related stimulating experiences.
However, we aren’t looking for just any new member. We seek those individuals that will make a contribution. We seek people that bring new perspectives. We seek both Artists and Supporters. Who knows the best candidates to join Alpine Artisans? You do! Current members understand both the rewards and challenges that come from working on projects. Current members know the traits that will make a productive member. And, current members are best positioned to mentor new members until they are fully engaged in AAI.
This year we are asking you to do three things regarding membership: 1) Identify a candidate that will become a productive member of AAI 2) Show your candidate why she/he should join Alpine Artisans 3) Mentor your new member in the ways of AAI until they are engaged in projects, program, or activities
Your efforts will result in more art, more education, and more enjoyment. Help maintain the momentum of our first 20 years by recruiting and engaging new members that will propel us through the next 20 years.
It’s okay if you recruit more than one. Thanks!
Broken Valley Road Show got both the elementary and the
high school kids in motion
Backstageby Scott Milner
11
As this long snowy winter churns steadily toward spring we are already three-fifths of the way through the 2 Valleys Stage 2010-11 Performing Arts Series season. Major fund-raising for next year has been completed and, in my role as director of 2 Valleys Stage, I am smack in the middle of negotiating with artists and making plans for the 2011-12 season. It is an exciting time—some uncertainty, but many wonderful possibilities.
It has been a rich season so far, filled with folk, jazz and blues. Attendees of the first concert will not soon forget the lyrical playing of Saxophobia, and Rob Verdi’s collection of unusual saxophones, blown with professional flair. Spencer Bohren moved us with his authentic folk and blues renditions and captivated our students with his narrative of the transformations of “Down the Dirt Road Blues,” which demonstrated how rural delta blues shape-shifted through the decades from field holler to the electric power of Muddy Waters and the international pop status of the Rolling Stones. Bluegrass fiddling and harmonizing came alive in January (to a near record crowd at Winterfest) with Broken Valley Road Show.
In their public concerts, the artists brought in by 2 Valleys Stage provide a s t rong cultural element to the Seeley Swan, which helps contribute to the area’s economic well being. Using effective teaching methods, each group of artists also brings unique cultural contributions to our three schools. The engagement and enthusiasm of the children and the learning that takes place as these artists teach, perform and share the special life dimensions of music-making are thrilling to watch. Comments from teachers and audience members have been extremely positive.
Still ahead in this season: we are looking forward to a tasteful blend of classical and new-age barrelhouse piano playing from Philip Aaberg on May 1. And we eagerly await “Much Ado About Nothing,” to be performed by Shakespeare In the Park on Friday, August 19, at the Double Arrow Resort. Circle those dates on your calendar!
In preparation for next season’s 2 Valleys Stage series, several community members and I drove to Great Falls in late January to attend the Montana Performing Arts Consortium (MPAC) Artist Showcase Conference, where we assessed seventeen professional acts. In February, eighteen people gathered at the Seeley Swan High School Library to hear the report on the MPAC trip, to listen to music samples from selected artists, and to offer their opinions and suggestions. As a result, the 2011-12 season is beginning to take shape. At this stage, I can report that classical music, folk, and jazz will be well represented next year, and that both regional and out-of-state artists of high caliber will participate. Funding seems close to adequate, so it seems very likely that, as we celebrate its 10th Anniversary, the 2 Valleys Stage Performing Arts Series division of Alpine Artisans, Inc. will continue to supply a mixture of music, dance, drama, mime, juggling, and general excitement to our community and to our schools!
It has been said that this aspect of the 2VS director’s job—the choosing of artists and structuring of the season to come—is the fun part. In truth, it is a community effort—and a tremendously rewarding one. Many thanks to the 2VS Coordinating Council and to all the volunteers, who actually do most of the work.
P.O. Box 841Seeley Lake, MT 59868www.alpineartisans.org
Loon & Fish Festival : the Tradition ContinuesBack in the beginning, when the newly-formed Alpine Artisans group decided to stage their first major art sales event, members chose Memorial Day weekend and decided on a theme: Fish Festival. According to Jeanne Moon's recollections, the Forest Service heard about the event, expressed a desire to be involved and suggested the emphasis include loons. Bob Korn drew a design featuring both loons and fish; Jeanne used it to on a poster and silk-screened T-shirts; a loon expert was enlisted to give a presentation and lead a walk to view a nesting site—and the 1st Loon & Fish Festival was born.
This year Alpine Artisans showcases its 19th Loon & Fish Festival. The event still takes place on Memorial Day weekend. )That's May 28th 10:00am to 5:00pm and May 29th 10:00am to 3:00pm at Seeley Lake Elementary School.) A presentation on loons and a viewing walk still figure prominently; and an AAI member's artwork is still chosen for use on a poster and T-shirt. (Jennifer Dyer is this year's artist.)
But the 2011 Loon and Fish Festival includes so much more than the founders ever envisioned: artist and exhibitor booths galore, art activities for the kids, artist demonstrations, on-going speakers and film showings, and wildflower viewing walks. Special road signage directs folks
to the festivities and Patricia Bouta's loon mascot, accompanied this year by a friendly fish, meander around to intrigue and entice visitors. Lunch is offered on Saturday as a fundraiser for the local
Food Bank and consists of delicious soups cooked by our local restaurants, complemented by a pottery bowl hand-thrown by Bob Korn and artistically decorated by Bob and his fellow AAI members. Sunday lunch is provided by Destinations for Education, a fundraiser to finance a trip to South America for some of our Seeley Swan High School students.
Celebrating our 20th Anniversary means not only looking back but also looking forward, and the special focus of the 2011 L&F is "Creating Positive Futures in Our Valley." Thanks to funding provided by the Seeley Lake Community Council and in collaboration with the Clearwater Resource Council, Swan Ecosystem Center and The Blackfoot Challenge, AAI is able to bring Missoula's own Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Steve Running, to speak on the ways in which climate change specifically affects our valleys. Other speaker topics include "Is Biomass in our Future?" and "Local Gardens, Local Food" and "The Outdoor Classroom."
