BY: RACHEL WUMKES
It almost sounds like the tagline for a gory, sci-fi movie. The Arts Center comes to life and rampages a tourist lake town in North Iowa.
I’m guessing it wouldn’t do well in the theaters!
The real Arts Center, however, has officially opened its doors after a year (plus) of closure. With the onset of COVID-19 last Spring, even after the formal mandates were lifted, it was simply best for the facility to remain hosting online events and activities. For the safety of their patrons and staff, they created kits for children to enjoy, had virtual showings, and folks were able to attend classes via zoom.
But now, with their doors open, they are ready to accept the public with open arms. Well, sort of. Maybe an air-hug from a socially acceptable distance is more the route we should go. Regardless, you can stop in to enjoy all the center has to offer on Tuesday from 10am-7pm and Wednesday through Saturday from 10am – 5pm.
In their recently published summer edition of Ignite, the Arts Center highlights the various activities planned for a season of excellence celebrating every aspect of the arts! Digital copies of the publication are available HERE, or you can stop in to the Arts Center for a hard copy.
And friends, they have gone ALL OUT for this summer. There are art classes for people of all ages, ranging in everything from how to paint on clothes, workshops on creating writing (maybe I should go to that one!), formal painting in the style of various artists, and even how to make a sock monkey. There are camps, exhibits, and planned events galore.
For today, because I only have about 500 words to chat about this incredible cultural facility, I’m going to focus on the Sculpture Garden and the Mini Art Markets.
First up, the Sukup Lakeside Courtyard was dedicated in 2019, and expanded in 2020. It is an outdoor exhibit, designed for people to enjoy a rotating showcase of sculptures. On May 20th, a new array of art will open for the season and run through October 20th. You don’t want to miss these intricate pieces of art on display around the facility.
Each sculpture, like all art, symbolizes something. It may reflect hardships faced while growing up, or loss, or moments of joy. It’s a deep-seeded feeling of expression by each artist and we are beyond fortunate to have it on display right here in Clear Lake.
The other feature of today is the Mini Art Markets. The annual Clear Lake Arts Sail will not return to City Park until July 23, 2022. In lieu of that event, there will be three Mini Art Markets. Each market will feature ten unique and talented artists showcasing their masterpieces. The events will be held on June 12th, July 10th and August 14th from 10am – 5pm. Be sure to follow the Clear Lake Arts Center Facebook Page for updates and details on artists in attendance for each event.
I simply cannot stress enough the importance of art in our lives. Not just the education and creativity for children, but for adults as well. Art is more than a creative outlet for one to express their feelings and emotions. It can be used as a channel to reduce stress and apply creativity to garner focus in life, or it can simply be enjoyed and appreciated as you take in the work of others.
In a nutshell, life would be a dull, emotional void of nothingness without art.
To learn more about the fabulous Clear Lake Arts Center and what they have planned for you this summer, visit their website at https://clearlakeartscenter.org/