Located in the historic Kaddatz Hotel building, Kaddatz Galleries has been a cornerstone of the Fergus Falls art community since its inception in 2008. Nancy X. Stewart, Executive Director, and Stacy Wendt, Artistic Director, share the gallery's rich history, mission, and the exciting programs that have made it a vibrant cultural hub.
The Origins and Mission of Kaddatz Galleries
Visit Fergus Falls (VFF): Kaddatz Gallery has a rich history in Fergus Falls. Can you share the story behind the gallery and its mission?
Nancy: In 2008, a group of local art supporters and enthusiasts came together to form a board of directors, generating a non-profit organization that became Kaddatz Galleries. We opened to the public in 2009 in the historic Kaddatz Hotel building. Our mission was to showcase and celebrate local talent, bringing the artwork of Charles Beck to the forefront. Beck, known for his woodcut prints and successful sign-making business, left his artistic fingerprints all over our community. Many of the signs downtown were originally painted by Charles Beck, making his legacy a visible part of Fergus Falls.
Unique Offerings at Kaddatz Galleries
VFF: What makes Kaddatz Galleries unique compared to other galleries around?
Nancy: Kaddatz Galleries is special because we are a non-profit fine arts gallery. We rotate our exhibitions approximately every six weeks, featuring artists from Fergus Falls, Otter Tail County, and the broader region, including the Twin Cities and Fargo-Moorhead areas. This rotation helps connect our community with diverse perspectives and artworks that might challenge or broaden their views.
Stacy: We also have robust arts programming. This year, we received an MSAB grant to offer new art classes for adults, ranging from four to eight weeks, providing college-level instruction in various media. Our Summer Arts Academy for kids has also been incredibly popular, with many sessions already filled.
Celebrating Charles Beck's Legacy
VFF: One of the highlights of Kaddatz Galleries is its collection of Charles Beck's work. Can you tell us a bit about him and his significance?
Nancy: Charles Beck was a nationally renowned artist and a long-time arts educator at our local community college. He started as a sign painter, but his woodcuts, a meticulous form of relief printmaking, brought him fame. Beck was a vocational artist in a rural region at a time when this was a radical move. He paved the way for other artists to sustain themselves and their families through art.
Stacy: Although his family has decided not to reproduce any more of his work, we still have prints available. We’re also developing a consignment program to connect people with Charles Beck pieces. We honor his legacy through our printmaking program and our permanent collection, which we showcase periodically.
Achievements and Community Support
VFF: Congratulations on your 15th anniversary! What are some of your proudest achievements during these 15 years?
Stacy: The fact that this community came together to create and sustain the gallery is something to be proud of. The support from art lovers, donors, and community members has been incredible. It’s a labor of love that has kept us going for 15 years.
Nancy: Surviving the pandemic was a significant achievement. Our board of directors and staff, supported by the community, ensured that our doors stayed open. Another highlight is our Outreach program, which pairs local artists with underserved communities, providing high-quality art classes that build skills, self-confidence, and a sense of community.
Programs for Young and Adult Artists
VFF: Can you tell us more about the Summer Arts Academy?
Stacy: Our Summer Arts Academy offers classes for two age groups: kindergarten through fourth grade, and fifth through eighth grade. In late June, we have mixed media classes for younger students and pottery and ceramics for older students. In late July, we reverse the age groups for these sessions. These classes are very popular, and some are already full, but we have a waiting list and might add more sessions if possible.
VFF: Are there any programs specifically designed for adults interested in exploring their artistic side?
Stacy: Yes, we offer several adult classes funded by the MSAB grant. These include foundation drawing, watercolor, mixed media, and oil painting. We also offer a sliding scale for tuition and scholarships to make these classes accessible to everyone.
VIP Perks and Community Importance
VFF: What special perks can VIP pass holders enjoy at Kaddatz Galleries?
Nancy: VIP pass holders can enjoy a 10% discount on Kaddatz merchandise in our gift gallery, including mugs, t-shirts, and tote bags. However, we do not offer discounts on artwork to ensure that artists are fairly compensated.
VFF: Why do you think art is important in a community like Fergus Falls?
Stacy: Art is essential for self-expression and mental health. It allows people to share ideas and learn about different cultures, fostering connections. It's remarkable to see such strong support for the arts in a rural community like Fergus Falls.
Future Aspirations and Final Words
VFF: What are your hopes for the future of Kaddatz Galleries?
Nancy: We hope to form cross-sector partnerships, demonstrating that art and creativity are integral to all aspects of life. We want to collaborate with businesses and organizations to create unique art experiences and add value to the community.
VFF: Do you have any final words for our VIP pass holders planning to visit Fergus Falls?
Nancy: Please visit Kaddatz Galleries! Thanks to the Minnesota State Arts Board and our generous supporters, admission is always free. We have two different shows rotating this summer, and our exhibition openings, also free of charge, usually feature snacks. We want everyone to feel welcome here, so come by, explore, and ask questions!
Stacy: We aim to make art accessible and welcoming to all. Whether you're a frequent visitor or new to art galleries, we hope you'll find something inspiring at Kaddatz Galleries.
Plan your visit to Kaddatz Galleries and experience the vibrant art scene in Fergus Falls. For more information, visit Kaddatz Galleries.
