It might be said that the fortunate residents of Northeast Minneapolis “marinate” in art. The area is home to countless artists who are at the ready to share their talents and commitment to their profession with their neighbors. The tie that binds – also plans, promotes and shares the riches – is the Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA). Though keeping up with the arts in Northeast a comprehensive listing of Northeast art events is a fool’s mission, some examples offer a glimpse of the possibilities.
- The work of local photographer Tim Davis will be on display through the month of February at the Wilde Roast Café. Tim has added a touch of high tech to his exhibit. Rather than merely labeling photos, he has equipped each with a Quick Response (QR) code so that cell phones are able to read and instantly link to any website, including Tim’s home website.
- The juried Spiritual Art Show has become a destination in Northeast for the past eleven years. Nicholas and Rosemary Heille, producers of the show, have published a clear explanation of the “why” of a spiritual art show on their website. They have also issued a call for Minnesota artists to submit their work for the show which is set for April 10-15, 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the Kolbe Center of Pope John Paul II School. Admission is free. Rules and entry forms are available from Rosie Heille, NE Minneapolis Artist Concierge Service, 3460 Garfield St NE, Mpls 55418.
- Brickmania Toyworks, located in the Thorp Building at 1618 Central Avenue, hosts a monthly open house on the second Saturday of the month, 11 AM – 4:00 PM. Visitors will find LEGO creations, including a working train created by the Greater Midwest Lego Train Club and the Twin Cities Lego Train Club. Brickmania also features displays of historical military models and a kids’ town.
- Meanwhile, NEMAA continues to sponsor regular open studio events. This is the season when Northeast artists are hard at work preparing for Art-A-Whirl, the annual springtime showcase of the community’s artists and their works. The open studio series offers an insider’s view into the work that goes on day-by-day in neighborhood studios, many of which share their work spaces and their wares throughout the year. The longstanding mainstays are the monthly open studio events held on First Thursdays and Second Saturdays.
- On First Thursday artists open their studios at the Casket Arts Building, Casket Arts-Carriage House, the Northrup King Building, Q.arma Building, and the Thorp Building. Also in the neighborhood visitors will find bargains at Two 12 Pottery and Gifts and a welcome at Who Made Who Design+Screenprint Emporium. Hours vary, all are listed on the NEMAA website. Stay in the neighborhood for the special happy hour and late night music nearby at the Red Stag.
- Open Studios on Second Saturdays each month are in the California Building where visitors will find six floors of studios bustling with 25 artists at work. Visit with the artists, sip and snack on the refreshments and catch the Art-A-Whirl fever the second Saturday of each month 11:00AM-6:00 PM.
The arts community of Northeast Minneapolis is a magnet the draws art enthusiasts – and those who love a good meal in a friendly environment. The community’s eat treats is growing by exponentially as any guide to good eating, including friends and neighbors, will attest. Don’t leave Northeast with an unsatisfied appetite for good art – or good food!
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