Our History
Art of the Lakes was founded in 1968 by a group of 11 artists interested in holding exhibits throughout the summer. In 1998, they purchased space located in downtown Battle Lake which is now a beautiful gallery space providing over 90 artists of many experience levels an opportunity to exhibit their work. Over the years, AOTL has grown to sponsor art shows, workshops throughout the year, a studio tour in July, the Art & Craft Affair in early August, and the Prairie Lakes Plein Air Fest from June thru September. The gallery is open during the summer from May through September and on weekends in October through December. Our members volunteer their time and efforts to maintain the gallery and keep it open. Help us plan the new Creative Arts Center!
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Making Art Happen
Beginning in May and continuing through September, we host a number of summer events and activities that highlight the talents of our member artists and provide a place where everyone—young and old—to experience the power of creativity. We invite you to join us. Summer Gallery Hours June, July, August - Mon-Wed: 10-5 pm; Thurs-Sat: 10-9 pm; Sun: 10-4 pm Prairie Lakes Plein Air Festival | June 17-Sept 29 We've got Paint Outs scheduled throughout Lakes Country all summer long. All levels from very beginner to accomplished are encouraged to join in. Check the PLPA webpage or our Facebook page for the schedule and locations. And if you're the competitive sort, registration information can be found here. The festival concludes the last weekend of September with a fun Quick Paint, Reception, and Award Ceremony. Kite Fun Fly | June 17-24: 11-3pm Paint-a-Kite and celebrate the beginning of summer! What could be more fun than a wide open field, a warm breeze, and a dancing kite? Join us anytime between 11-3 pm in the gallery during the week of June 17-23 to paint a sled kite in a design of your own choosing. We'll share kite flying tips and techniques while you're there. Then, on Saturday, June 24 from 10-1 pm, everyone is welcome to fly a kite at the same time at the BL High School Football Field, creating a colorful, beautiful sight! Member Artists! Here's an opportunity to get promoted and help support the Creative Arts Center! More inför here. Studio Tour | July 14 & 15: 10-5 pm, July 16: 10-3 pm Our member artists have been working hard in preparation for this summer's big event. The AOTL studio tour is a highlight for residents and visitors in the area with galleries to visit scattered all around Lakes Country. You'll have fun meeting the many talented artists living and working here as well as appreciating their fine artistry. Wenonga Days Milk Carton Boat Races | July 22, 2-6 pm at Lions Park! This is your chance to test the laws of buoyancy and to launch a piece of personality atop a pile of milk cartons! It's not too early to plan your entry and begin collecting milk cartons. Don't worry if you don't collect enough, we'll have extras. All the information about the race can be found here. Art & Craft Affair | August 12: 9-4 pm at Railroad Park Every 2nd Saturday in August, Railroad Park in Battle Lake comes to life. Artists, vendors and fair-goers all enjoy the opportunity to stroll along aisles of booths full of handcrafted jewelry, clothing, home goods, food and more. These events along with Artist Talks in the gallery given at the end of each month, discounts on workshops throughout the summer and so much more are reasons why you and your family should belong to Art of the Lakes. |
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