From The Director

Dear Friends,

I’ve never been a nail biter but between the recession and the swine flu, my anxiety level is running high enough to consider starting. At this writing, we await the results of the spring appeal and Art 4 Lunch fundraiser which will determine whether or not we balance the budget on June 30th, the end of our fiscal year. You should have received at least one funding request from us by now. If you haven’t already done so, please consider a donation! Your gift, of any amount, will be most appreciated and put to good use. Nearly 35% of our annual budget is contributed so our ability to continue our programs and services depends on you.
On a positive note….all but one of our class sessions this year has been ahead of plan…living proof that art and the creative process have tremendous therapeutic value in troubled times. Whether you are a new or returning student, I urge you to sign up today. Our summer schedule is full of opportunity for experienced professionals, rank beginners and all skill levels in between.

The week of Jule 6th the Art Center will be unveiling a new banner installation at Ridgedale Center as part of our Partners In Art exhibit program with Ridgedale. Take the time to visit the center court and view our banner installation. It includes 8 banners prepared in collaboration with the following outreach partners: Hennepin County Libraries, Benilde - St. Margaret’s (St. Louis Park), Hammer Residences, Inc., Wayzata Community Education (WISHES Youth Enrichment), Wayzata West Junior High School (Wayzata Public Schools), Robbinsdale Area Schools (Adventure Club), Forest Hills Elementary (Eden Prairie Public Schools), Minnetonka High School (Minnetonka Public Schools), and Interfaith Outreach Community Partners (CONECT Kids). In addition, Dorothy Odlund’s morning painting students prepared a mosaic and Wayzata Community Education (WISHES Youth Enrichment) prepared a mural which are installed in the food court on the 2nd floor. Many thanks to all the participating artists. While you’re at the mall, take a look at the ongoing series of works created by Art Center member artists located in custom vitrines throughout the Center. Our partnership with Ridgedale Center is unique and a important part of our mission to make art a part of everyday life. Many thanks to General Growth Properties for making this collaboration a valuable way for the Art Center to provide creative experience to the community.

In case you didn’t notice…the golden-hued paneling on the outside of building has been replaced. Turns out, the UV coating had failed. Fortunately, it’s under warranty so, after much discussion with our contractor and the manufacturer, the panels were replaced. I expect it will make a bit of a mess and we will be somewhat inconvenienced, but, in the end, the art center will have a new, fresher face for summer.

Also, on the building front…We’ve adjusted the thermostat settings in hopes of saving a few dollars on our energy bills. Please let the front desk know if any of the rooms are uncomfortable. We’d be happy to make adjustments.

Best regards,


ROXANNE L. HEATON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
rheaton@minnetonkaarts.org
952.473.7361, ext. 15