Miles of Art is entering its fourth year in Shawano and Menominee counties this weekend, but it will do so without its founder.
David Rand passed away Feb. 25.
Rand came up with the Miles of Art concept — showcasing a variety of visual and performing arts in area artists’ studios and homes — and approached the Shawano Country Tourism Council with the idea. He championed using local art to lure visitors to an area commonly known for its agriculture.
“He came to the chamber and spoke to me about his idea,” said Patti Peterson, tourism manager with the Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce. “It’s been kind of bittersweet (this year). I know he would be proud of the work everyone has done to put on the event.”
Rand’s home, at N4933 Pine Lane in Shawano, will continue to be a site on the Miles of Art tour despite his absence. His widow, Kazuko, will display his wood-fired stoneware pottery, and his son, Douglas, will be showing his photographs.
Eight other artists also will be on-site to present and discuss their work; art as varied as calligraphy, jewelry making and chainsaw carving.
Other host artists include David Aschenbrener and Simon Levin.
The WOWSpace gallery in Wittenberg, Old Feed Mill on Pleasant Street in Gresham, and the Yoga Room and Art Gallery, also in Gresham, also will be hosting artists and musicians.
Two additional locations feature American Indian and other area artists. The College of Menominee Nation’s Cultural Center is hosting nine artists and will have traditional foods. Woodlands Studio in downtown Shawano will feature three artists from the Grignon family and a guest photographer.
The Mielke Arts Center will not be hosting visitors during the regular tour hours but will present its fall show, “Rest Assured,” at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Visitors can also view some of the more than 270 barn quilts scattered throughout the county, along with 60 community quilts in Gresham and more than 20 murals on buildings in Wittenberg.
The Miles of Art celebration is getting a lot more attention from visitors, Peterson said
“There are a lot people talking about it. It seems like they’re talking about it the whole year, and they look forward to it more now that it’s established,” Peterson said.
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