NCAC Winter Art Auction

Who says the arts only thrive in the metropolis! Pekin, North Dakota, (southeast of Grand Forks) is the site of a March 8th art auction that will benefit the Stump Lake Fine Arts Youth Camp, and the array of artists who have contributed reads like a Who’s Who of North Dakota artists, both established and emerging.

About thirty artists are participating, including professionals like Robert Kurkowski, Susan Morrissey, and Adam Kemp whose work “Cows have a lot to say” is a refreshing, direct painting of cows, some huddling in a cohesive group, while a lone specimen stares at the viewer as impressionistically rendered snow flurries about the landscape. Many other accomplished artists lie squarely in the professional group, including Linda Whitney, whose provocative award-winning works stand as serious explorations of her subjects.

In addition, collectors will be introduced to the works of area artists like Donna Opoien who presents a combination of realism and surrealism in her beautiful photo work, “Moonglow.” Alongside traditional fine arts sit the exquisite jewelry contribution of Theresa Paul and Monte Brecheimer’s superbly traditional and lovely Rosemal work. Add Doug Pfliger’s Deco Dog bookends to the mix, plus edible art, and a lively combination of objects and delectables emerges. The Halvorson-Boote Auction Service will conduct the live auction as individuals who act as “walking easels” present the offerings.

The Mcville State Bank and the North Dakota Council on the Arts are to be commended for their sponsorship of this annual small town, yet upscale art on the Plains event. Kudos to Brenda Bjorlie for her energetic support of the arts and for her fundraising efforts, which contribute considerably to cultural life in rural Dakota. The social will open with wine and hors d’ oeuvres at 3:00 and the auction begins about 3:45. The 2009 event theme is “In Black & White,” though it appears that the festive event will unfold, not with this stark contrast, but with an abundance of reverie and ample local color.

What: NCAC Winter Art Auction