By Helene Ader
This is the 10th year artisans from the Merrill area have been showing and selling their art at the Artisans Showcase held annually in Assisi Hall at Bell Tower Residence. The artists pictured have been participants since the show originated in 2009. Louise Schotz, Jack Ader, Ron Pankow and Bill Pittman all feel that the show is a great opportunity to show their art to the community in a beautiful, social setting.
Twenty-one artisans will participate in the show this year on Feb. 10, including: Ann Jaroski, pottery; carvers Jack Ader and Ron Pankow; painters Bill Pittman, Dave Kapszukiewicz, Lindy Haynes and Joan Lange; photos by Scott Savage, Marcy Wiltgen and Francine Cieslicki. Other artisans include jewelry makers, Louise Schotz, Pattie Salter, Denise Anton Wright and Suzi Janowiak; bags by Sandy Lussenhop; drawings by Gary Pagel; collages by Shirley Gajewski; creations by Jamie Kalvestran; fiber arts by Rita Wiechman; pens by Rodney Johnson and wine by Brigadoon Winery.
The show hours are from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the showcase is $7, with wine, cheese and dessert being offered. In addition, there will be music on the Steinway Grand in the hall by Merrill pianists. This year a former Merrillite, Sean Nugent, who has performed extensively in Minneapolis, will lend his piano and vocal talents to the show. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an on-site-raffle of donated art pieces by show participants.
Come, join the 10-year anniversary celebration of artistic talent in the Merrill area, and pick up a one-of-a-kind piece of art for a special gift. Proceeds from the Artisans Showcase will go to Bell Tower Residence, a sponsored ministry of the Holy Cross Sisters.