Artspire

The newest art event in La Crosse WI is Artspire, which encompasses art, music, singing, dance, theater and storytelling.  Thank goodness I was able to experience this on our last weekend in the area.

The showcase of the events was unveiling the tromp l'oeil mural done by nationally recognized artist, John Pugh.  This takes up the entire side of the Pump House Regional Arts Center and depicts the lively history of this town.

I have several artist friends that were showcasing their talents that day and stopped to visit with a couple of them.

Joyce Diveley does the most interesting work with her pottery.  I was fortunate in the past to take one of her clay camps, but I think I'll leave this fine work to her.

Laurel Grey used to be a neighbor and it's been fun to watch her artwork expand as she tries new techniques and media.  And to think her very first "art show" was in my house!  She's come a long way since then.

These adjustable pendants are made from microscope slides and rice paper.

I love her dragonflies!

Her creations come with a hand crafted gift box

Behind the Pump House they had a stage with singers and this little lady belted out "Don't Rain on My Parade" in a manner that would have made Babs herself smile. 

Kelly Kreig-Sigman did a storytelling about a madam in the La Crosse area and how this profession also provided a safe haven to victims of domestic abuse, before that term was even coined.  Her costume was lovely but apparently not all that comfortable...who'd a thunk?

I wish I could have taken more of the event in, but that morning there was a bar mitzvah to attend.  What joy to watch this fine young person become a man, he did such a nice job.

Long Live the Queen of Arts