Grand Marais Art Colony

About

/// WHO WE ARE
Nestled in the harbor-side village of Grand Marais, Minnesota, with direct access to Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, the Art Colony is a gateway for people to creatively explore and interpret the rugged coast and inland expanse of waterways, forests and wilderness.

Founded in 1947 (the first art colony in the state) with 20 students in an eight-week summer painting class, the Art Colony has grown to cultivate a vibrant arts community on the North Shore. Today, the Art Colony continues as a retreat and creative home for the artistic spirit, serving over 27,000 people. Throughout the year, artists and creative seekers gather together to learn from renowned instructors, engage in critical dialogue, and explore the artistic process.

/// WHAT WE DO
Artist Services | Tap into vital resources, including professional development classes, residency opportunities, studio access, grant writing assistance, sales opportunities and more.
Classes | Select from 200 classes taught by over 80 instructors, crafted for all skill levels in diverse disciplines, including our expanded foundational class options.
Events | Participate in our annual artist-driven community events: Northern FIbers Retreat, Grand Marais Arts Festival, Plein Air Grand Marais, Tour d'Art, the Member Show & Sale, and Empty Bowls.

/// WHAT WE BELIEVE
- Artistic expression connects us with our landscapes
- Artists need time, space, and uninterrupted focus to create work
- Mentorship and guidance are critical for alls tages of creative development
- Dialogue enhances the artistic process and cultural understanding of the arts
- Connecting through the arts builds healthy and resilient communities

/// WHERE WE ARE
Grand Marais, along with its thriving arts scene, offers cultural events in music, craft, and theater, and boasts a variety of established restaurants and locally owned businesses. There is always something for everyone to see and experience.