Bethel artists get a head start in the local art scene

Studio #101 in Northeast Minneapolis’ California Building is now a shared open art studio and gallery space for Bethel students and alumni. The collaborative environment gives students real-world engagement with the artist community beyond Bethel.

“Having a space off campus that allows students to get a bigger picture of the creative world and exposes them to so many different ideas and practices is key in early career development,” says Savannah Danz ’25, a graphic design major with a minor in studio art. “The space helped me start seeing myself as a professional artist—not just a student. It pushed me to grow creatively and gain confidence outside of campus.”

In May, an opening reception was held for the space, and later that week 21 students exhibited their work during Art-a-Whirl, the largest open artist studio tour in the country. More than 120,000 people attend the three-day event each year, and this year between 1,800 and 2,000 visitors explored the Bethel-curated gallery. 

“We have found that this immersive opportunity to participate in a major professional Twin Cities art event sets our students up to make connections in the community, to connect with alumni who still show at Art-a-Whirl and to better understand the possibilities that are available to them once they graduate,” says Michelle Westmark Wingard '00, gallery director and professor of art at Bethel. “We are seeking to give them a professional head start.”

The opportunity to participate in a major industry event while still in college gives students critical exposure to the professional art world. They can test ideas, adjust pricing, meet future collaborators, and gain confidence by seeing how their work resonates in a real-world setting. Five students, including Danz, sold work during Art-a-Whirl this year. “When I was notified of my sale, I was ecstatic,” says Danz. “It was a confidence booster and validation that my art was good. It was also the first real sale I’ve had for my paintings!”

Made possible in part by a NetVUE grant, the gallery space is co-rented with alumni, including Hadley Rittgers ’21 and the artist duo, Emma Gottschalk ’21 and Josh Eller ’21 of Boring House. They’ve mentored current students interested in art, helping them envision life after graduation.

“I'm excited to show the Twin Cities art community the high quality of our students’ work. Bethel students tend to have a sensitivity and depth in their work that is impressive,” says Wingard. “Bethel’s art and design program is rigorous, and this really shows in our students’ work.” 

Come see the creativity for yourself! Bethel will participate in this fall’s California Dreamin’ open studios event, continuing to expand its impact in the Twin Cities art community.

Hone your creativity in Bethel’s Art and Design department

While studying the core concepts of art and design from a Christian perspective, you’ll have opportunities to study abroad, develop your professional portfolio, and participate in gallery exhibitions, internships, and assistantships.

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