Arts & Activities

Winsted Arts Council – Something for Everyone

The Winsted Arts Council – who are we?

We are a member-supported, volunteer-driven, non-profit organization.

We value the expression of all art forms as a means to strengthen the entire community – young and old – and its economy.

We envision an artistic community within Winsted that inspires a vibrant downtown with successful businesses and a culturally-engaged citizenry.

Think about the times you’ve been involved in changing or developing something that’s important to you. What were your motivations to commit your time and effort? How did the progress make you feel? What impacts on others’ lives did you see? The bottom line is – such work is rewarding! Membership supports this work and the community it serves. Join us!

In 2008, a small group began meeting to discuss development of an arts organization in Winsted. Several of us participated in the Blandin Community Leadership Program in October 2007, and came back with a vision for the arts in Winsted.

In early 2010, the Winsted Arts Council (WAC) was officially formed, complete with articles of incorporation, bylaws, a board of directors and officers, and a federal ID number. It has since obtained 501(c)3 status.

Events sponsored in 2013 included a workshop with the Minnesota Center For Book Arts (in partnership with the Winsted Library); cookie and cupcake decorating with Jan Cartwright; Books and Cookies with local author/illustrator team Linda Reinert and Emily Lynch; creating fairy gardens; music in the park with Singleton Street; summer art camp for kids; Lego contest; necktie purse class; Christmas treasure box class; painting with Emily Lynch; Books and Cookies with NFL legend and Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan Page; and an evening of music featuring musicians with Winsted connections.

These events and others were made possible, in part, by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage fund, along with generous support from Winsted Arts Council members.

The Winsted Arts Council moved to its current location at 141 Main Ave. W. in downtown Winsted in spring 2013, and is proud to be part of the downtown community.

For more information, visit our website at www.winstedartscouncil.org, our Facebook page, or e-mail us at winstedartscouncil@gmail.com.