I have a friend who yearly, purchases a piece of local art with her husband on their anniversary. It can be a photograph, or a sculpture, or anything, but it’s a piece for them to share together while supporting local artisans. And sometimes the best way to see local art is to visit the artists’ studios. That’s why art crawls are such a treat. This weekend, head just west of the Twin Cities and spend the weekend (October 4-6), peeking inside some 45 artist studios within a five-county area. The Upper Minnesota River Arts Meander takes you through the towns of Ortonville, Appleton, Madison, Milan, Dawson, Montevideo, and Granite Falls. With artist offerings of paintings and pottery to stained glass and quilts, the Arts Meander is a great opportunity to peruse wares, discover your taste, and pick up a new, locally designed piece (or two!). Each year around 2,000 people make the trek, so you definitely won’t be alone!
If you get to the area on Friday, don’t miss the “walking theater” production in Granite Falls. Learn about the iconic Main Street in the ’40s and ’50s while being guided by two young locals (actors) in love. During the play, Saturday Nights, the main street comes alive with vintage marquees, classic cars, photographs from the era, and locals dressed in garb from the decades. The free performance starts at 7 p.m. and ends with live music from the ’40s and ’50s performed by The Echos.
Whether it’s for an anniversary, a birthday, for you or someone else, or just for fun, take some time to experience local art. For a detailed peek into the meander, see the below video.
