AS A CREATIVE, I’m biased when it comes to the importance of art in education and in our lives.
Art takes us beyond the functional and necessary basics to a place that feeds our spirits and our souls. That frees our minds.
With canceled concerts, celebrations and theatrical productions, closed arts centers and more during the past pandemic year, we’ve realized just how much we miss, and need, the arts. Or at least I did. I felt especially grateful that Faribault’s weekly outdoor summer concert series continued in 2020. I looked forward to the Thursday evening performances in Central Park where I felt comfortable among socially-distanced attendees. For more than an hour, I could immerse myself in music and relax in the outdoors. And now, with restrictions loosening, access to the arts, in all forms, is slowly returning.
At one of those concerts last summer, I met Faribault artist Kate Langlais, who was painting on-site. She’s a gifted artist and shares her talents via teaching classes through the Paradise Center for the Arts. Langlais’ art, and that of other instructors and gallery committee members, is currently exhibited through April 3 at the Paradise in historic downtown Faribault.
And what a talented group of local artists. Their showcased art features acrylic on canvas/hardboard, watercolor & ink on paper, clay, wax dye resist on fabric and more.
I photographed a sampling of the gallery pieces. I celebrate this creativity. This art inspires me. Uplifts me. Causes me to think. Makes me happy.
I expect these featured artists feel like they have to create. Just like I have to create via my writing and photography. To do so gives me joy, feeds my spirit and my soul.
FYI: The Paradise Center for the Arts, 321 Central Ave. N., Faribault, is open from noon – 5pm Thursday and Friday and from 10 am – 2 pm Saturdays.
© Copyright 2021 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
I love that bunny–how cute is that? Lots of really talented people in this world!
I thought the bunny especially fitting to feature in this post.
I love the bunny, too! Made me laugh out loud. All of the art you chose to include here is engaging and fun. I’ve missed meandering around the Minneapolis Institute of Arts during the pandemic. As I writer, I had lots of weeks when I had nothing to give to creative work during this whole scary time but never lost the desire to see the work of others. The creative community nourishes us all.
Yes, the creative community nourishes all. I’m thankful to be part of it, to have you as part of that community, and so many other gifted creatives.
I remember the excitement and anticipation when we would see a movie at the Paradise Theatre back in the 70’s. Do they still host the Farmer’s Market during the winter months?
Ah, yes, we took our girls to a few Disney movies at the Paradise back in the 1980s. The Winter Farmers’ Market is now held at the Faribo West Mall.
I like that bunny too! It’s always nice to see local art.
I agree. Always wonderful to enjoy the art of locals.