The Stairwell News by Susanne Crane

Susanne Crane is an artist/educator currently working on a local restoration project in the historic district.

So what are you doing for Fishing Opener?

The Kids College kids have been diligently working for months on a spectacular sculpture for the Governor’s Fishing Opener, which is the second weekend in May. Since it’s top secret, I will say no more about that.

The Freeborn County Arts Initiative has put out its call to artists for their professional, high-concept, fishing-themed show to run May 9-June 22. This show was a response to a request made last November by event organizers that the FCAI throw its artistic might behind this event. The FCAI was only too glad to oblige and promptly reorganized its 2019 schedule accordingly.

One surprise: downtown’s new artist incubator will be up and running, providing maker-space to creative professionals. It will be adjacent to the FCAI gallery, in Dr. Christian’s former office. Its open house will also coincide with Fishing Opener events.

I will be getting ready for my very full teaching schedule in Minneapolis and promoting my “2 Artists Squaring Off” exhibition in Faribault, but I plan to participate as much as possible.

This is your invitation to come visit our brilliant, historical treasure of a building at 224 S. Broadway in downtown Albert Lea during the Fishing Opener for fun kid art, grown-up art, serious art, goofy art, treats and surprises. We have been graced with generous sponsors and fantastic friends. Come see how we have revived the place in the past five years. It has a completely different feel from when The Albert Lea Art Center was a tenant here. I encourage you to give it another look! You won’t be disappointed.

The FCAI has Albert Lea’s back when it comes to impressing the tourists. They really know how to deliver the goods. I can hardly wait to see what they do this time.

Until I see you there, enjoy the spring weather while you can and please watch out for bicyclists when you’re driving.