Reception set for November 30 in NYM

Contributed photos
A new gallery has opened at the Cultural Center in New York Mills. “Teach” features artwork from Michael Aasness, who is currently a teacher in Volga, S.D. and Peder Butenhoff, who is an art teacher in Perham.

The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center has announced its new gallery exhibit: “Teach,” in the gallery from October 23 to November 30. A reception will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 1-3 p.m.

The show is about inspiration: the teachers people learn from and those who inspire others. This show features the artwork of two current teachers: Peder Butenhoff, art teacher in Perham and Michael Aasness, currently teaching in Volga, S.D.   

Aasness was a student of Butenhoff who inspired him to become an artist and teacher. Butenhoff was inspired by his former art teacher Jim Borgreen to fulfill his goal as an artist and teacher. 

Butenhoff graduated from Fergus County High School, Lewistown, Mont. in 1988, where Jim Borgreen’s teaching gifts greatly influenced him. Butenhoff attended Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn, earning a K-12 Art Education and 7-12 Social Studies Education degree and Coaching Certification in 1993.  His work is greatly influenced by his years in central Montana and his love of the variety of outdoor activities in Minnesota. Butenhoff’s work includes paintings, photographs, prints, and ceramics.

Aasness was a student of Butenhoff when hetaught in Fergus Falls.  Aasness began his professional teaching career in 2017 as the 6-12 Art Instructor at Sioux Valley School District in Volga, S.D.  

“As an artist and educator, I believe the impact of the environment and opportunities surrounding us can transform, influence and inspire creativity. The interactions, moments, and subtle nuances of observing the world around me fuel my desire to understand what drives my creative process,” said Aasness. 

He is showing 16 paintings in acrylic, gouache and mixed media.

A Gallery Reception will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30, from 1-3 p.m. The artists will be on hand to meet and greet visitors and discuss their work.  An artists’ talk will begin at 2 p.m.  The reception is free to attend and open to all. Refreshments will be available.

The New York Mills Regional Cultural Center Gallery is always free to see and open to the public. Gallery hours are Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Private viewings can be arranged anytime by calling Cheryl Bannes at 385-3339 or emailing cheryl@kulcher.org.

This activity is made possible in part by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Visit www.kulcher.org or call the Cultural Center at 385-3339 with any questions.