Books on the shelves, and now art on the walls

Talk about it

Since the Robert Trail Library opened several years ago, its walls have been pretty bare. Starting next week, that will change.

The library purchased a hanging wall display system and has partnered with the Rosemount Area Arts Council to create what’s being called Rosemount’s Art Gallery. First up, the gallery will feature paintings from three of the arts council’s own members.

Works from artists Cheryl Kluender, DeAnne Parks and Rita Beyer Corrigan will add color and interest to the walls of the library. The exhibit will be up from January through March.

“We think it’s great,” said Jamie Jurgenson, library manager.

Jurgenson said she’s really excited to bring the gallery into the library. RAAC approached the library about doing some sort of display. Jurgenson liked the idea and she was able to get approval from Dakota County to purchase and install the system.

RAAC member John Loch said RAAC and the library work well together and that the collaboration will benefit artists as well.

“It’s a really good collaboration and we’re helping artists, too. It’s a win-win-win,” said Loch.

Loch said they chose to go with local artists for several reasons. He said it’s nice to honor local artists and it will be easier to work with RAAC members.

“This is very much a trial run,” said Loch about learning how the hanging system works.

Going forward, Jurgenson hopes to display art work from a variety of artists including beginners, students in the local schools and artists from around Dakota County.

Loch said RAAC will put out call to artists to submit art and then a panel will chose who will have their art displayed. There will be four major exhibits over the course of a year, Loch said.

Six months ago, Rosemount did not have any art hanging systems. Then Rosemount United Methodist Church added one several months ago as part of its efforts to connect people to God through visual arts. Later in January, an art hanging system will be installed in the Steeple Center, meaning there will be three systems in Rosemount.

“We feel like we’re going in the right directions,” said Loch.

A grand opening and artist reception will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Jan. 13 at the library, 14395 Robert Trail S. Jurgenson said the event will be a nice chance for people to meet the artists.

Tags: news, rosemount, community, arts