“OF THE YEAR” Arts Award Winners Announced

The Northwest Minnesota Arts Council gives three awards each year to artists and arts advocates that stand out in terms of artistry or volunteerism in area arts.

Arts Council director Mara Hanel says this year’s awards will be presented at the University of Minnesota Crookston on Sunday, April 27.

Loreen Hanson of Thief River Falls is the Northwest Artist of the Year for Visual Art. Hanson has more than 76 years of experience drawing and painting, and has participated in more than 30 art exhibits. 

Rena Zapata Bouchard of Crookston is the Northwest Arts Advocate of the Year for Media Art. In 2019, Bouchard oversaw the creation of Studio 110, a permanent space dedicated to digital storytelling for youth and adults. 

Darcy Reese of Thief River Falls is the Northwest Star for Creative Choir Directing. Darcy was a choir teacher for 37 years in Thief River Falls and has received national recognition and awards for choir direction. 

The “Of the Year Award” winners were nominated by area residents.

Prior to the awards ceremony April 27th, more than 120 works of art made by local adult and high school artists will be on display starting at 12:00pm in the International Room in the Sergeant Student Center. The awards program is scheduled to be presented at 3:00pm in Bede Ballroom. The exhibit and reception are open to the public and free to attend.

For more information, visit northwestminnesotaartscouncil.org.