Arts Tour Minnesota

1. Through the grant, five Minnesota ceramic artists were able to bring their artistry and work to five communities and over 2,500 individuals around the state. Because of the interest expressed, we added a fifth site to the tour. Attendance at these sites was significant with attendees traveling some distance to take part. By using both the video presentation and the presence of a noted ceramics artist, the public was able to see the depth and breadth of the ceramics tradition in Minnesota as well as experience firsthand the work of the artist. In the returned surveys, 70% of attendees at one opening indicated that they were introduced to new artists. 74% would like to see additional ceramics exhibits at the venues used by the tour. 2. Evaluation was carried out through an evaluation/survey instrument presented at each of the gallery openings/receptions/demonstrations. Evaluations consisted of a series of eleven questions designed to gather information on from participants on their interaction with ceramic art and their perception of the event and exhibit. Participants were asked to fill out the evaluation and return. Surveys were collected and data compiled by the Anoka Ramsey Community College Research Department. 2: 1. The ceramic artists on tour had an opportunity to visit locations and share background on their work where they would not normally be able to visit. Ceramics artists, while sharing a rich tradition in Minnesota, do not generally have the resources to cover the expenses of touring to different parts of the state. Additionally, the artists had an opportunity to meet with the public and share on a more personal level their vision and work. This included an exhibition, opening reception and gallery talk and demonstrations in each of the locations. The tour broadened the understanding of ceramics artistry and exposed a greater part of the state to this tradition. 62% of attendees responding to surveys from three of the openings stated that the information at the workshop was completely new to them. 2. Evaluation was carried out through a evaluation/survey instrument presented at each of the gallery openings/receptions/demonstrations. Evaluations consisted of a series of eleven questions designed to gather information from participants on their interaction with ceramic art and their perception of the event and exhibit. Participants were asked to fill out the evaluation and return. Surveys were collected and data compiled by the Anoka Ramsey Community College Research Department.