February “First Friday” – Natural Interpretations – Opening/Reception Feb. 5, 2010, 5pm-9pm
NATURAL INTERPRETATIONS featuring Lauri Wilson and Nick Wroblewski
These two exceptional regional artists are inspired by the natural surroundings of the Midwest. Nick specializes in hand-cut wood block prints that show the “gesture” of a landscape, as well as the dynamic energy shared between all life. Lauri is a glass artist who is inspired by prairies textured with grasses, fields pinstriped by rows of corn, silhouettes of burly oaks and bluff lines where they meet the sky. They have both mastered their challenging mediums and bring a refreshing interpretation to the rich natural environment we call home.
Come and enjoy exceptional art, great conversation, refreshments and music.

March “First Friday” – MODERN GEOMETRY: Playing with Form – Opening/Reception, Friday, March 5 – 5 pm – 9 pm.
Featuring the work of over 40 artists represented by SEASONS. This annual themed show is always a treat for us!  We invite the artists to submit up to two pieces based on the designated theme. Over the years, the results have been amazing … original, creative, out-of-the-box and fun. For this show we have encouraged the artists to think of the word “geometry” as the shape and relative arrangements of the parts of something; i.e. the geometry of a spider’s web.  Our hope is that the artists will meditate on the basic element of form in visual expression and create meaningful pieces with a playful, modern twist.

Come and connect with artists, friends and innovative art.  Also, enjoy good food, refreshments and music. The show will remain up until March, 30, 2010.

April “First Friday” – Opening/Reception Apr. 2, 2010, 5pm-9pm
It is going to be exceptional as it will feature the work of painter Dan Wiemer of Red Wing, MN and ceramic artist, Kelly Jean Ohl from Lanesboro, MN. Dan is a watercolor and acrylic painter who has developed a style that is identifiably his own….. wonderful landscapes and seascapes that embrace the pastoral land of southern Minnesota, the bluffs of the Mississippi, the waterway itself, and’ the majesty of Lake Superior. He has an affinity for the outdoors and captures the essence of our natural space through his work. Kelly Jean describes her ceramic work as “a multi-sensory experience.” You can look, touch and hear her work. Many of her surfaces start from everyday kitchen utensils, textiles and household tools that Kelly Jean manipulates and carves. Her bowls, her rattles and her wall pieces are all highly textured and organic. This show will remain up until May 3, 2010.

The ARTOpener – May 1 and May 2 – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm each day.
The St. Croix River Valley Fine Art Tour, affectionately called The ARTOpener, features 9 studios located along the scenic waterway from Stillwater, through Hudson to River Falls. The tour, now in its seventh year, features a minimum of 20 artists – painters, potters, mixed media artists, glass blowers and jewelers. Of course, the gallery artists are featured – Joe Christensen, Jude Ryan Reiling, Thomas and Rebecca Maras and Patrick Casanova. One of the special bonuses with this tour is that the artists are often demonstrating their craft during the tour hours. For more information, go to www.artopener.com. You will want to get this event on your calendar. It is a great opportunity for art lovers and serious collectors alike.