Annual ArtReach Exhibition Celebrates 30 Years - Members Show to Open July 10th

STILLWATER, MN –Each year, ArtReach shows over 50 works by dedicated artist members at the Members Show. All forms of artwork are accepted, from blown glass to hand-bound books to paintings and pottery. 1995 was the first year of the Members Show, according to records of the River Valley Arts Council, of which formed into present day ArtReach St Croix.

While ArtReach has sparse records of that day, we do have a photo album. Photos of the first annual Members Show, which was on view at Lakeview Hospital, show smiling faces, artwork all around patrons, and sweets to celebrate the occasion. Artwork present in 1995 ranged from paintings to pottery to jewelry, which is a theme that has stayed the same throughout the years.

“I was delighted to discover that we’ve been putting on this show for 30 years!” says Heather Rutledge, executive director of ArtReach St. Croix. “The Members Show is a valuable time of connection for the artists of St Croix Valley. To make it to 30 years of an annual show is an achievement not often seen.”

Some artists pictured in 1995 are still members of ArtReach today! ArtReach will celebrate the dedication of members and supporters at an exhibition opening on July 10 th . All are welcome to the opening!

Current, new, or renewing member of ArtReach, you will be able to submit artwork on July 6 th from 2-6 and July 7 th from 10am-2:30pm. All mediums of art are accepted but must be under a certain size. Guidelines are available on artreachstcroix.org. The opening reception for The Members Show is on July 10 from 6-8pm. The closing reception is on August 23 rd , from 2-4 pm.

The Members Show is on view in ArtReach St. Croix’s Royal Credit Union Foundation Gallery Thursday, July 10 th through Saturday, August 23 rd . ArtReach St. Croix is located at 224 N. 4th Street in Stillwater, MN. The gallery is free and open to everyone. Gallery hours for the Members Show are Wednesday through Friday, 10am-4pm and Saturday, 12-4pm.

ArtReach St. Croix is a non-profit regional arts organization committed to the mission of connecting communities to the arts throughout the St. Croix Valley. ArtReach supports the work of artists and arts organizations through events, marketing initiatives and education opportunities that foster and celebrate the visual, literary and performing arts in the St. Croix Valley. The work of ArtReach St. Croix is made possible through generous donations from individuals and grants from foundations.
Visit artreachstcroix.org to learn more.