Contemplating the Garden
pastel by Barbara Arnold Heitzman
|
|
Dear Friends of the Arts, |
|
It was so much fun to have audiences in our new space to see Around the World in 80 Days. We had fun working on it, and fun performing it as well. Thanks to all who came to support us. Scroll down to see all the exciting art, music and theatre offerings that are coming soon!
We are excited that we will have our first in-person art show since COVID opening June 3, and we anticipate having regular gallery hours going forward. That means we need to line up our art gallery greeters! We are starting small. In June, our hours will be Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am till 4 pm.
Time to get involved!
If you would like to help out as a volunteer, please go to Signupgenius.com and choose the dates you would like to help. It’s not hard, and it’s so much fun to meet other art lovers, and show off our wonderful new space.
|
|
|
|
Become a Member
Did you know you can become a member online?
Click HERE for information about our membership program.
|
|
Progress Report for April |
|
There has been a whirlwind of activity in the lower level in the last month, and renovation work started upstairs as well. The theater lobby, used only a week ago for the audience for “Around the World in 80 Days” is now crammed full of elevator parts, which we hope will be installed soon. Lots of electrical work has been completed, and, once the elevator is installed, we need to build more walls around it so it looks good. Most of the HVAC ducting is now in place, and there may even be drinking fountains functional when you next visit. |
|
Upstairs, the wall in the lobby has now been demolished to give access to the elevator. And a student art exhibit will be installed in the refurbished vault this week. Stay tuned for more! |
|
|
Virtual Exhibit
Invitation to Wonder
|
|
Wonderful things are all around us. They may be beautiful, intriguing, ordinary, or strange–things we wonder about, or things that are a wonderful experience.
Thirty-three artists from our Tri-State area are sharing their talents and wonder. The artists are varied in their mediums. Painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, fiber art, or the beautifully chosen words of poetry and prose have all been represented here.
|
|
Many of the artworks are for sale.
purchasing a piece, and we will get you in contact with the artist.
|
|
Enjoy all of our past virtual books at:
|
|
Bob Rivoire has again made a beautiful collage of photos that depict all manner of wonder in our world. Take a couple minutes to enjoy his images. He sees wonder in our world, and records it with his camera for us to appreciate. |
|
|
We are inviting you to bring artwork for the art exhibit at the new Galena Center for the Arts Gallery. The opening will be Friday, June 3, 2022. The theme is “Emergence.” It is open to all interpretations, and we want it to be a diverse show, with any work you have been doing, or has been stashed away in storage, in the “hibernation” our gallery has been in for the last couple years.
All mediums are welcome. Email Patricia for more details about submitting work.
|
|
Still Under Wraps
photograph by Mary Katos
|
|
Emergence
To be revealed, uncovered, disclosed; quietly, slowly, gradually.
While the Regional Artists Gallery has been in hibernation for the last couple years, we are about to emerge into a real, live, in-person experience. Artists have not quit making art and we are grateful for the submissions to the virtual exhibit that can be seen on our website. But now, it’s time to shine!
This exhibit will be a diverse collection of regional artists’ work that has been created in the last couple years, or tucked away in storage, bringing their work to light to share with our community.
Join us for the opening night, June 3, 2022, 5-7pm with bubbly and chocolate to celebrate.
The exhibit will be open to the public Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 11am-4pm.
|
|
Youth Art Gallery Opening
Tuesday, May 10, 6 to 8 pm
|
|
|
|
Galena High School (GHS) members of the National Art Honor Society recently managed a painting blitz in what used to be the vault of the bank. The first exhibit in the new Youth Art Gallery will be Artcade! |
|
Artcade is an art show all about Video Games! Created by 11 GHS National Art Honor Society student artists, first in the new Youth Art Gallery space at Galena Center for the Arts. Come on out and support these young artists. May 10, 6 to 8 pm. |
|
|
Romance in D
a comedy by James Sherman
Wednesday, May 11, 7 pm
|
|
The Galena Center for the Arts is delighted to once again offer “table readings” of plays. The table reading series introduces the audience to plays they may not be familiar with and plays we cannot otherwise produce at this time. These readings give the audience an opportunity to hear the text of a play out loud, performed by actors who have rehearsed the works, and a chance to discuss the plays after the performance. |
|
Stephanie Bussan, Robert Armstrong, Cathie Harms and Mike Blaum |
|
Romance in D introduces us to Charles, a musicologist, who lives in a Chicago apartment alone with his books and music, and Isabel, a heartbroken poet on the verge of a divorce, who moves in next door. Add Isabel’s very concerned father, and Charles’ loving but overbearing mother, and it makes for surprising interactions.
Romance in D features actors Mike Blaum, Stephanie Bussan, Cathy Harms, and Robert Armstrong with narration by Deb Hyland, and is directed by Carole Sullivan.
There are no set ticket prices for the table
readings, but an $8 donation is suggested.
|
|
And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little by Paul Zindel tells the story of the three Reardon sisters. One has married and cut herself off from her siblings; another has begun to drink more than she should; and the third, after a scandalous incident at the school in which she teaches, is on the brink of madness.
Zindel has written a funny and fierce play with a mastery of language and a plot where comedy and tragedy seem to turn on a dime. The Hollywood Reporter said Zindel “has created three parts that most actresses would trade their souls to play.”
Note: For mature audiences due to content and language.
There are no set ticket prices for the table
readings, but an $8 donation is suggested.
|
|
featuring
Jacquie Miller, and Robyn and Ted
Thursday, May 19, 7 pm
|
|
Jacquie has always enjoyed being involved in music in any way possible ever since she could remember. On her 17th birthday, she received a guitar for her birthday and quickly started teaching herself so she could sing along. At the age of 22, Jacquie wrote her first song “The Further I Fall”. This song came so easily to her that from there she couldn’t stop writing. She found a love for writing songs and expressing herself in this way. Not all songs have come as easy as that first one, but they all have come from her heart. Melodies flow from waters deep in acoustic singer-songwriter, Jacquie Miller. Hailing from the banks of the mighty Mississippi, this diminutive powerhouse soprano bears her soul in all she writes and sings. |
|
Ted Williams and Robyn Davis live in Galena, and love their adopted city and its marvelous history. They are the owners of the Haunted Galena Tour Company, and together help accurately convey Galena’s history and ghostly folklore to enthusiastic visitors and locals alike! Their music is rooted in stories of longing, featuring haunting melodies, all conveyed in simple acoustic style and accented by lush harmonies. Robyn and Ted are excited to return to the stage after a 2 year absence due to the Covid pandemic. They are thrilled to be performing in the new Galena Center for the Arts Performing Arts Stage. |
|
Save the dates!
June 4 and 5
The Juliani Ensemble
|
|
The Juliani Ensemble will be in Galena for two different presentations at the Center. |
|
Thanks to generous donors and the Arts Midwest GIG grant,
these events will be free!
(Donations always welcome, of course.)
|
|
Saturday, June 4, will be an hour long informal "Meet the Juliani Ensemble" event at 5 pm where they will have the chance to talk about their music, preview some of the repertoire, and interact with everyone. Especially good for young people, and anyone who would like insight into the ensemble and their music.
Sunday, June 5, will be a formal chamber music concert beginning at 3 pm.
|
|
The Juliani Ensemble, a highly acclaimed chamber music ensemble comprised of world class musicians, has delighted audiences with inventive, energetic chamber music concerts since its inception in 1999. As a performing partner at the Chicago Cultural Center in Preston Bradley Hall, the Juliani Ensemble performed to enthusiastic, appreciative audiences for over twenty years.
The core of the ensemble is comprised primarily of members of the multi generational Graef family musicians.
The Juliani Ensemble’s mission is to spread the joy of music through performance, education, outreach and artistry of the highest level.
|
|
|
|
This engagement is supported by the Arts Midwest GIG Fund, a program of Arts Midwest that is funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional contributions from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. |
|
|
Please join us for
The Jimmys Blues Band Fundraiser
June 18, 7:30 pm
|
|
“The Jimmys are excellent musicians, wildly fun entertainers and perform a slew of strong, original songs. They’re a treat for any fans of roots rock, old school R&B and straight-up blues. And every performance is like a party!” - Bruce Iglauer, Alligator Records |
|
This is going to be an incredible night!
Tickets will be on sale through our
website starting May 13.
|
|
Janet Eggleston has been a studio artist at the Center for many years. She is excited about her new studio in the new building. A large window and more space is always inspiring for an artist. |
|
“As I prepared to retire in 2016, it struck me that professional continuing education (as a United Methodist minister) was no longer a priority. What I needed was education for a hobby in retirement. And that's how I began taking classes in Norwegian rosemaling; a wonderful way to explore my Norwegian heritage. When it became clear that this was more than a passing fancy, it was also clear that I would need a dedicated space to pursue my hobby. I was delighted to be able to rent studio space in the old building, and I'm even more excited to be in this new space! I'm continuing my education in rosemaling and very much enjoying learning about the styles from various regions of Norway and the history of this folk art as I become a more skilled painter.” |
|
Corporate Spotlight
for May
|
|
Jail Hill Inn
Prairie Works
U.S. Bank
|
|
We are very appreciative of the many businesses that have become Corporate Members of the Center, and will be featuring them monthly in our newsletter as a way of letting everyone know the many ways they reach out to help their community.
|
|
Jail Hill Inn has been serving up award-winning hospitality as one of TripAdvisor’s top Bed and Breakfasts. In 2015, Galenian Matthew Carroll bought the old, historic Jo Daviess County Jail and transformed it into a luxurious six-suite inn. The inn offers a personalized experience for each guest with top-notch amenities and gourmet breakfasts. As you step inside the inn, you will experience the unique architecture of the historic jail, with its exposed wood beams, curved brick ceilings and 9-foot tall windows.
Matthew, a strong supporter of the arts, has been a member of the Center’s Board of Directors since 2017.
|
|
Prairie Works connects people with the natural history of Northwest Illinois and Southwest Wisconsin through ecological restoration and land stewardship. Cory Ritterbusch founded this organization in 2006 to provide eco-friendly solutions for traditional land-use practices. Prairie Works assists in a variety of projects including Native American burial mound restoration, invasive species control, bioengineered erosion control and landscape design.
Not only is Cory a restoration ecologist and an economic development professional, but he’s also a history buff. In 2019, Cory shared his love of local history with a thrilling presentation at Galena Center for the Arts on Bob Dylan’s 1996 concert in Dubuque, one of the wildest concerts in history.
|
|
Galena U.S. Bank can help you reach all of your financial goals. The bank, located at 953 Gear Street, offers a wide array of personal and business financial services, from checking and savings accounts, to mortgages and retirement planning.
They are supporters of the arts, having stained glass by our studio artist, Denise Tollensdorf. For four years, U.S. Bank has been one of the Center’s corporate members. The bank has sponsored all three of our Youth Arts Festivals, as well as our Radio Show “Miracle on 34th Street.”
For more information, call Galena U.S. Bank at 815-777-3820 or visit www.usbank.com.
|
|
Theater Camp
Acting Classes
Theater Camp returns in July 2022!
We are excited to offer two classes in
the new Galena Center of the Arts performance space.
|
|
|
Youth Acting Class: Monologues (Ages 10-13)
July 18-22, 2022 from 1pm-4pm
Use this link to sign up for the Monologues workshop.
Learn basic vocal techniques, have fun with theater games, explore improv skills and put all your newly learned skills together in the performance* of a short theatrical or film monologue.
|
|
Acting for Teens: Scene Study (Ages 13-18)
July 25-29, 2022 from 1pm-4pm
Use this link to sign up for the Scene Study workshop.
Utilize specific vocal and movement techniques to develop a character. Learn how putting your attention on your partner builds a compelling relationship onstage. Put all your newly learned skills together in the performance* of a short theatrical or film scene.
*Each week will end with a Friday afternoon showcase
so friends and family can see them perform.
|
|
- Classes held in person at Galena Center for the Arts, 971 Gear St., Galena.
- Cost: $125 per student (need based scholarships available).
- Class size limited to maximum of 12 students.
- Proof of Covid-19 vaccination required for participation.
|
|
Capturing Galena in
Pen and Ink and Watercolor!
August 12 and 13, 2022
|
|
Registration is open for this two-day workshop—with only three spots left! (We will keep a waiting list when it fills.) With our beautiful Galena architecture and landscape, Ann Thomas will guide you through the techniques she has mastered over the years. Ann is an accomplished artist with solo shows, workshops, a Craftsy class on-line, and book illustrator. The month of April, her show, “Letting Go” was at the Roberta’s Art Gallery at UW Whitewater, in Whitewater, Wisconsin. |
|
For more information about Ann, the class, the supply
list, and to register click on this link
|
|
June
-
3 Emergence Art Opening
- 4, 5 Juliani Ensemble
-
16 Songwriters Showcase Fete de la Musique
- 18 The Jimmys Blues Band
July
- 18-22, 25-29 Youth Acting Camp
August
- 12, 13 Capturing Galena Painting Workshop
September
- 16, 17 John Erickson Trio
|
|
Recent Activities
at the Center
|
|
Galena Festival of the Performing Arts
Donation
|
|
After providing twenty years of lively performances and talented performers, the Galena Festival of the Performing Arts Board of Directors has made the decision that the Festival has reached the end of its run.
The Festival Board believes strongly that the future of performing arts in our area will be with the Galena Center for the Arts, and to that end, the Festival board donated their remaining funds to the Center, to support future musical performances featuring regional, rather than local, artists.
Funding for GFPA was entirely from donations throughout the years of its run, and our community and audiences gave generously. We are greatly appreciative of all they have done for the Arts, and we plan to continue making fine music accessible to all.
|
|
Brion Bowman wowed us with his smooth, yet dynamic voice and keyboard during our April Songwriters Showcase!
We will surely invite him back to perform again.
|
|
Around the World in 80 Days |
|
Our first radio show since 2020! Lots of fun and lots of laughs. With six actors portraying 39 roles, it was filled with action. |
|
Galena Collaboration
H.B. Wilkinson Title Company, Inc. has been gracious in allowing Galena Center for the Arts to exhibit artwork in their office. With an abundant real estate market this year, they hold many closings for new Galena residents, so this is a wonderful introduction to what the arts in Galena have to offer.
Two artists have exhibited artwork on a revolving schedule of two or three months. Currently, Brian McCormick and Gigi Embrechts are exhibiting. We thank Angie Steele and Isiah MacDonald, staff at the title company, for collaborating with us. They enjoy having the artwork in their office and it gives our local artists another venue to display their work.
|
|
Watercolors by Brian McCormick |
|
Photographs by Gigi Embrechts
|
|
- Bryan Ackerman
- Patricia Allen-Stewart
- Jim Baranski
- Catherine Basten
- Matt Blaum
- Brion Bowman
- Pat Bull
- Cindy Caraway
- Maren Coates
- John Cox
- Donna Davis
- Jay Dickerson
- Cathy Dorwick
- Jean Dregne
- Carl Droessler
- Janet Eggleston
- EHMS Mechanical Services
- Al and Cathie Elsbree
- Lynn Giles
- Mark and Sheila Haman
- Dan Harms
- Terri and Phil Jackman
- Kloss-Winter Electric
|
|
- Bonnielynn and Kim Kreiser
- Kathy Leonard
- Joseph and Jorene Lieb
- Lord of Love Lutheran Church
- Carol Mantey
- Paul and Nancy McMenamin
- Montgomery-Timmerman Construction
- Emily Painter
- Pam Powers
- Laura Primrose
- David Resnick
- Brian and Lisa Schoenrock
- Earl Thompson
- Irene Thraen-Borowski
- Dennis and Leslie Waltman
- Connie Warnsing
- Lenny Wayne
- Dan Weeks
- Andy Willis
- Sandy Winge
|
|
- Coat rack with wheels.
-
Volunteer to clip Telegraph Herald newspaper articles about the Center. Must have your own daily newspaper subscription and be willing to read and collect Center promotional articles and photos at home. Clippings can be dropped off at the Center at the end of each month.
|
|
In our beautiful new space, we still have two studios available to rent. A dedicated room to gather all your supplies and display your inspirations may be just the thing to create your own special artwork or writing. Join a group of likeminded artists and interact with the public during gallery hours, or find a quiet time away from distractions at home. A room of one’s own may be just what you need to spark creativity. |
|
to set up a time to tour the space and discuss the possibilities.
|
|
Support us with AmazonSmile Foundation Donations |
|
We invite you to show your support for the Center when shopping on Amazon. We are now established as a charitable organization for contributions via the AmazonSmile Foundation. The Foundation will donate 0.5% of eligible purchases to us whenever you designate the Center as the charitable organization of your choice.
Here’s how to support the Center:
-
Visit smile.amazon.com (you need to follow this step each time you designate donations).
- Log in with your regular Amazon account information.
- Select “Galena Center For The Arts Inc” as your charitable organization choice.
- Begin shopping.
Thank you for your support! We truly appreciate your thinking of us when shopping with Amazon!
|
|
|
|
Become a Member
Did you know you can become a member online?
Click HERE for information about our membership program.
|
|
Volunteer!
Click here to sign-up to be an art gallery greeter,
|
|
Please Donate
Please help us to advance our mission to
elevate and celebrate regional arts and artists.
|
|
To donate online click on This Link, or send your check to:
The Galena Center for the Arts
971A Gear Street, Galena, Illinois 61036
(779) 214-0261
|
|
To join the Galena Center for the Arts YouTube channel click on this link. When on YouTube click SUBSCRIBE. To receive notification of new videos click on the bell icon next to SUBSCRIBED then click on ALL.
|
|
Please forward our newsletter to your friends and relatives. They can click below to receive their own monthly update. Thanks for sharing our news with others! |
|
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. |
|
|
This program is supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. |
|
|
Don't forget to "Like" the Galena Center for the Arts on Facebook
Have a preferred email address? Please let us know.
Thanks so much for your support of the Galena Center for the Arts!
|
|
Newsletter produced by Dennis Waltman |
|
|
|
|
|
|
