 For Immediate Release: April 22, 2025
Marty Two Bulls Jr. Named Interim Executive Director of the Rapid City Arts Council RAPID CITY, SD -- The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is delighted to announce that Marty Two Bulls Jr. has been appointed as the Interim Executive Director of the organization, effective immediately. Two Bulls steps into this leadership role following his service as a dedicated member of the Board of Directors, from which he has stepped down to assume his new responsibilities. An accomplished artist and educator in Rapid City, Two Bulls brings a deep commitment to the arts, cultural equity, and community development. He is an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and comes from a family of artists. He credits his father, Marty Two Bulls Sr., as his first art instructor and early influence. Growing up in his father’s studio, he developed foundational skills in sculpture, illustration, and graphic design—along with a deep understanding of what it means to live and thrive as a creative person. Two Bulls earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, NM, where he studied printmaking and ceramics. He remained in Santa Fe for several years, developing his own artistic practice and working in contemporary art galleries with a broad range of artists from around the world. In 2017, Two Bulls returned to South Dakota to accept a faculty position at Oglala Lakota College (OLC). He established a Graphic Arts program at OLC and remains a strong advocate for creative expression across Native and non-Native communities alike. Two Bulls holds a Masters in Fine Arts from Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York and is an artist laureate for the Oglala Sioux Tribe. In addition to his ongoing educational and artistic endeavors, Two Bulls recently completed a powerful residency as the 2024 Artist in Residence at the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF). As part of this residency, he led a land art engagement based on the traditional Lakota practice of azilya—a ceremonial act of burning sacred plants such as sage to cleanse space and invite healing. Two Bulls facilitated the Azilya ceremony at the historic Ross Shaft, inviting Indigenous community participation and honoring both the land and the many histories tied to the site. His work bridges Indigenous knowledge, artistic practice, and scientific exploration. “We are thrilled to welcome Marty Two Bulls Jr. as Interim Executive Director,” said Anjelica Sasse, President of the Board of Directors. “His vision, experience, and deep-rooted commitment to both the arts and this community make him an exceptional leader for the Rapid City Arts Council during this time of transition.” As Interim Executive Director, Two Bulls will lead the organization’s ongoing efforts to support local artists, engage community members through inclusive programming, and steward the mission of the Rapid City Arts Council and the Dahl Arts Center. ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.
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 For Immediate Release: April 16, 2025
From Classrooms to the Galleries: Students Take Over the Dahl The Rapid City Arts Council is handing the spotlight over to the next generation of artists with two student exhibitions taking over the Dahl Arts Center this spring: the BHSU Fine Art Senior Exhibition and the Best of the West Annual Juried High School Art Show. Both shows will open to the public with a shared reception on Friday, May 9, from 5–7pm, featuring an awards ceremony at 6pm for the Best of the West exhibition. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet many of the student artists and experience the diverse range of artistic expression on display. BHSU Fine Art Senior Exhibition The Black Hills State University (BHSU) Fine Art Senior Exhibition will be on view in the Sen. Stan Adelstein & Lynda K. Clark Gallery from Friday, May 2 through Saturday, June 13. This annual capstone show features work by BHSU seniors graduating in May or December 2025 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Art Education. The exhibit showcases a variety of media and techniques, including ceramics, photography, painting, textiles, and screen printing. Each piece represents a visual narrative developed by the student, demonstrating their growth as artists and educators. Desy Schoenewies, a professor at BHSU, reflects on the artistic talent coming out of BHSU, “Over the years, we have witnessed our students' remarkable growth in creativity, ingenuity, and artistic proficiency. Through our rigorous curriculum, mentorship, and access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, students have been empowered to push the boundaries of their creativity and explore new artistic horizons.” She says, “The BHSU fine art student exhibition stands as a proof to their commitment to their craft and their endless potential as artists.” This exhibit is generously sponsored by the BHSU College of Liberal Arts Fund and the BHSU Photography Program. Best of the West Juried High School Art Show The Best of the West exhibition runs from May 9 through May 31 in the Inez & Milton Shaver Gallery and the Denise Du Broy Gallery. This juried showcase features outstanding artwork from students at Central, St. Thomas More, Rapid City High, and Douglas High School. The selected works span a variety of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, ceramics, printmaking, and drawing. Best of the West continues to be a platform for young artists in our community to share their creative voices and be recognized for their artistic excellence. Art is happening—don’t miss it! Visit rapidcityartscouncil.org for more information. ### For More Information: Noah Geiger Rapid City Arts Council Dahl Arts Center 605.394.4101 x2 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: April 15, 2025
Rapid City Arts Council Announces 2025 Arts Investment Fund Awards RAPID CITY, SD – In a continued effort to expand access to the arts and invest in cultural vitality, the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) today announced the 11 local organizations selected to receive awards from the $100,000 fund through the 2025 City Arts Contingency Fund. These direct investments in the local arts ecosystem were made possible through the City of Rapid City’s annual budget process, in which the City Council authorized RCAC to administer the fund. The initiative aims to enrich the lives of residents and stimulate economic growth by supporting creative projects that elevate the community through public engagement, artistic innovation, and cultural equity. “This fund is about more than just supporting events or performances—it’s about investing in the health, identity, and future of our community,” said Noah Geiger, Curator and Gallery Director of the Rapid City Arts Council. “Each of these organizations plays a unique role in shaping Rapid City’s cultural landscape.” RCAC received 10 eligible proposals totaling the full $100,000 allocation. Applications were reviewed based on several criteria, including artistic merit, feasibility, innovation, and the potential for public benefit. Funded projects span a broad spectrum of disciplines—from music and theater to literature and inclusive arts education—demonstrating the diversity and creative strength of Rapid City’s nonprofit arts and culture sector. The arts and culture industry continues to be a powerful economic driver for Rapid City. Nonprofit organizations in this sector support approximately 2,700 local jobs and generate more than $204 million in annual economic activity. Moreover, 88% of cultural attendees report that these organizations foster a strong sense of community pride and belonging. 2025 City Arts Contingency Fund Awardees:
To learn more about the economic and social impact of Rapid City’s arts and culture sector, visit rapidcityartscouncil.org. ### For more information, contact: Maggie Jean Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 x5 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral, and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: March 19, 2025
Teen Art Studio Exhibition Opens at the Dahl Arts Center WHAT: Teen Art Studio Exhibition EXHIBIT DATES: 04.03.25 - 04.25.25 ARTIST’S RECEPTION: April 3, 5-7pm WHERE: Bruce H Lien Cultural Café & Gallery, Dahl Arts Center The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) proudly presents the Teen Art Studio Exhibition, Work in Progress, showcasing the dedicated work of 26 talented young artists, the second cohort of RCAC’s Teen Art Studio program. From April 3 to April 24, 2025, the Bruce H Lien Cultural Café and Gallery at the Dahl Arts Center will be transformed into a vibrant showcase of youthful creativity. Join us for the opening reception with the artists on Thursday, April 3 from 5-7pm. For their exhibit of mixed media creations, the Teen Art Studio students have titled their show Work in Progress. While this exhibition marks the culmination of their past eight months of exploration, these young artists recognize that their creative journeys are just beginning. Through this work, they’ve experimented with various materials, techniques, and mediums, discovering where their artistic passions lie. Curated by the students themselves, the exhibition offers hands-on experience in gallery presentation, preparing them for future artistic endeavors. RCAC launched the Teen Art Studio in 2023 to provide middle and high school students with a dedicated space to explore and develop their visual arts skills. This program offers studio space, materials, and guidance to help students build their artistic portfolios in a supportive, creative environment. During the first 12 weeks, students focused on a specific art medium under the instruction of Abby Simmions. The Teen Art Studio is designed to nurture emerging artists in Rapid City while fostering meaningful connections within the local art community. Do you know a talented young artist eager to embark on their creative journey? The RCAC will be accepting applications for the 2025/26 Teen Art Studio program, with up to thirty spots available for students in the Rapid City area. Mark your calendars—the application period opens on April 1 and closes on August 26, 2025. This free program is funded by RCAC’s Friends of the Dahl and generous donors. To apply for the Teen Art Studio program or to explore opportunities for professional artists to contribute, visit www.rapidcityartscouncil.org/teen-art-studio. For inquiries, please contact [email protected]. ## For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org. Rapid City Arts Council Announces 21st Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour in Rapid City3/4/2025  For Immediate Release: March 4, 2025
Rapid City Arts Council Announces 21st Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour in Rapid City RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council is proud to present the BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour, returning to the Elks Theatre for two exhilarating nights of adventure films on Monday, April 21, and Tuesday, April 22. But before the adrenaline rush begins, the festival opens with Where We Live—a special evening of live music and storytelling—on Saturday, April 12 at the Dahl Arts Center. Where We Live – Saturday, April 12South Dakota Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Toadstool Jamboree & Friends will open the festival with a powerful blend of drum groups, flute performances, and spoken word, weaving together passages from The Bear, the Big Read Rapid City book selection. This gathering serves as a grounding moment for reflection, resilience, and the interconnectedness of our stories. The festival begins with Where We Live, an inspiring evening that celebrates the beauty of presence, the responsibility we share for our planet, and the connections that bind us as neighbors and stewards of our community. Tickets are on sale now. Doors open at 6 PM. This special evening will also feature the debut of our annual Lost Cabin Beer Co. art can, showcasing the piece The Pleiades Reflection Nebula in the Constellation of Taurus the Bull by Teresa Hofer. This piece is displayed in Reflect, The Dahl’s newest photography competition and exhibition on display until May 3, 2025. Tickets and trailers are available at: rapidcityartscouncil.org/banff Granite Film Program – Monday, April 21 The Granite program kicks off the festival with a dynamic lineup of seven films, four of which are under 10 minutes long. These stories highlight athletes and explorers pushing the limits of human potential:
Monday night’s emcee, Laura Armstrong, shares her excitement, "After years of being a Banff Film Festival spectator, it's a tremendous honor to emcee Monday night's event. The Black Hills are all about adventure and exploration, and I can't wait to share my enthusiasm with this year's audience." Sandstone Film Program – Tuesday, April 22 The excitement continues on Tuesday with the Sandstone program, featuring seven films that blend adventure, culture, and storytelling. The longest film in this set runs 33 minutes, ensuring a high-energy, immersive experience:
World adventurers, photographers, and filmmakers Bruce B. Junek and Tass Thacker will serve as the emcees for Tuesday night’s film program. "The films highlight the thrills and rewards of an active outdoor lifestyle," says Junek. They remind us that people are capable of far more than we often imagine." "Banff films always inspire and challenge us to learn about the world," adds Thacker, "and about the people who make our planet such an incredible place to live." The BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour brings together breathtaking cinematography, inspiring narratives, and the world’s most daring athletes and explorers. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the thrill of adventure on the big screen. Tickets and trailers are available at: rapidcityartscouncil.org/banff The BANFF Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour in Rapid City is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: L.B. Lane Family Foundation, Constance Lane & David Cameron, Coeur Wharf, TerraSite Design, RCS Construction, Modern Woodmen, Dr. Fromm, Edge Sports, Pat Roseland, Dakota Business, HomeSlice Media, and Lost Cabin Beer Co. Their support brings world-class films, thrilling outdoor stories, and a community-driven experience to the Black Hills. Thank you for making this festival an unforgettable event! Sponsorship opportunities are available until April 4. For more information about this events and to purchase tickets, please visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/banff. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable celebration of creativity, nature, and community spirit. ## For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: January 19, 2025
JUMP INTO METAMORPHOSIS Celebrating the Artwork of Justice-Involved Youth RAPID CITY, SD – Rapid City, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is proud to present Metamorphosis, the culminating exhibition of the Just Us Mural Project (JUMP). This powerful showcase features 15 murals created by justice-involved youth, reflecting their resilience, imagination, and evolving roles within the community. The final reception will take place in the Ruth Brennan Gallery on March 14 from 5–7pm. Admission to the galleries is always free. In 2023, the Pennington County State Attorney’s Office’s Juvenile Diversion Program was one of only five programs nationwide to receive a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. This competitive grant supports high-quality arts programs for justice-involved youth, funding JUMP in partnership with the Rapid City Arts Council. For the past 15 months, JUMP has provided culturally relevant arts education to youth in Pennington County, fostering personal growth, reducing disciplinary infractions, and encouraging greater self-compassion. Through art, these young people found a voice—one that deserves to be heard. The Creation Process of a Mural
The theme of Metamorphosis evolved from a simple metaphor into a profound reflection of transformation. Annalise, one of the participants, described her journey: “At first, I did think it was a little stupid and I looked at it like a punishment. I didn’t know how painting was going to do anything. But, looking back, I realize it’s something to guide you instead. By the time the mural was finished, my perspective had changed. It was fun and rewarding.” Temperance highlighted the importance of community and recognition: “I enjoyed working on the painting... I also really liked when our parents showed up to look at the art and we got to talk about what we did and the parts that we worked on.” Experience the Power of ArtAll JUMP participants will receive a 40-page exhibition catalog featuring full-color images of the murals, celebrating their artistic achievements. These works of art embody bravery, hope, fear, and resilience—offering viewers an intimate glimpse into the emotions and experiences of these young artists. Join us on March 14 from 5-7pm to witness the transformative power of art in action. For more information or to preview the murals, visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/jump. At the Rapid City Arts Council, we believe that art should be accessible to all. If you or your child wants to take an art class but financial barriers stand in the way, we offer scholarship programs dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to create. ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: February 18, 2025
Join Our Community in Reflecting at Reflect the Newest Photography Competition and Exhibition at the Dahl Rapid City, SD — The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is excited to introduce Reflect, the community’s newest photography competition and exhibition inspired by the Latin term "Reflectere," meaning "to bend back," Reflect invited talented photographers to explore themes of reflection in both literal and metaphorical ways. Our community is filled with a plethora of talented photographers showcasing their talents at the Dahl Arts Center with an opening reception on March 13 from 5-7pm. Admission to the galleries is always free! Photographers of all skill levels, from hobbyists to professionals submitted their interpretations of reflection—whether through natural reflections in water or glass, or deeper expressions of community, identity, and personal growth. The jury of acclaimed local photographers selected Photographs in three distinct categories: Youth (18 and under), Adult Amateur/Hobbyist (over 18), and Adult Experienced/Professional (over 18). Prizes for each category are as follows:
Selected Artists Adult Experienced/Professional: Amber Christians | Pretzel, Summer’s Reflection & Sunset Silhouette Bailey Sadowsky | Bright Future Chris Yushta | Adventure Awaits & Parameters of Sight Deb. Hayes Zimmerman | Sunrise Reflected in the Falling Snow Ellen Larson | A Line of Transition Erica Harvey | Alaskan Rush Hour Heidi Stefanich | Grief, Reflected – If Only & Grief, Reflected – Why Leith Sandness | Seeing Double, Waves of Fire & Web of Iridescence Martin Tarby | Bighorn Face-Off, Eye of the Big Horn & Placid Pintail Mike Magda | Rocket Launch Over Avila Bay Rebecca DeWitt | Into the Light & Sylvan Fall Sierra Hopp | Embraced by the Unknown, Grounded & Hiding Behind the Fog Teresa Hofer | Bear Butte Migrating Pelicans & The Pleiades Reflection Nebula in the Constellation of Taurus the Bull Adult Amateur/Hobbyist: Dolores Henson | Ripples of Introspection Dustie Clements | Reflection of Music Glenda Nixon | Ice and Clouds Hafiza Farzami | The Magic of a Mountain in a Lake Julie Stoll | Temple Reflection Kathie O’Donnell | Reflecting of an Emotion Linda Foster | What Lies Ahead Sarah Ludes | Daydreaming Sheila Johnson | Fisherman’s Paradise Stephen Nixon | Labyrinth Tara Burian | Echo of Elegance Todd Schweiger | ‘Nuff Reflection for Ya, Effigy Walk, I am in There Somewhere, Shining-esque & Mille Lac Galaxy Youth: Anna Haeder | Gathering Gavin Johnson | Electric Chill Jace Masko | Reflection Levi Brooks | Crest Fallen & Hidden Histories Lexi Foster | Thoughts Far and Away Madelyn Lein | Beneath the Bending Branches, On the Fence & Your Move Ryder Burian | Golden Hour’s Embrace & The Art of Icicles “We’re excited to see our community’s creativity shine through Reflect,” said Jeannie Larson, Assistant Curator at RCAC. “This exhibition provides an inspiring new way to share stories and perspectives, honoring photography’s unique role in capturing the world around us and within us.” The reception and awards for the Reflect exhibition will be held on March 13 from 5-7pm. All exhibition openings at the Dahl are free and open for the community to attend. For additional details, please visit thedahl.org/reflect. ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 x5 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: February 12, 2025
Middle School Art Show Opens at the Dahl Arts Center WHAT: Middle School Art Show EXHIBIT DATES: March 6 – March 28 ARTIST RECEPTION: March 6, 5-7pm WHERE: Bruce H Lien Cultural Café & Gallery, Dahl Arts Center The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is pleased to announce that we will host an Emerging Visual Artists exhibition by the Rapid City Area Middle Schools. This exhibition will be displayed in the Bruce H Lien Cultural Café & Gallery at the Dahl Arts Center from March 6, 2025, through March 28, 2025. As part of the show, an opening reception for the artists will be held on Thursday, March 6 from 5-7pm. This event is free and open to the public. The Middle School Art Show is a celebration of artistic expression and a testament to the students' and art educators' hard work, creativity, and dedication at West, South, Southwest, St Thomas More, North, and East Middle Schools. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of artwork, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and mixed-media pieces, all created by local middle school artists. The show will feature a Teacher Choice award, a People's Choice award, where visitors can vote for their favorite piece of artwork, and a Certificate of Appreciation award. Light refreshments will be served, and the public is encouraged to attend. The Emerging Visual Artists (EVA) program through the Rapid City Arts Council supports visual artists who are looking to gain experience working with art galleries and exhibiting their works for the first time. RCAC's education staff works with the artist through the entire process, from selecting works, getting critiques, pricing, writing a statement, and promoting the exhibit. If you are interested in the emerging visual artists program at the Dahl contact [email protected]. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. ## For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Marketing Director Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org. Emerging Artist Juli Teasley Explores Existential Confusion in Exhibition at the Dahl Arts Center1/22/2025  For Immediate Release: January 22, 2025
Emerging Artist Juli Teasley Explores Existential Confusion in Exhibition at the Dahl Arts Center WHO: Juli Teasley WHAT: CTR WHEN: January 21 - March 1, 2025 ARTISTS’ RECEPTION: February 20, 2025 WHERE: Bruce H. Lien Cultural Cafe & Gallery, Dahl Arts Center The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is excited to present the next Emerging Visual Artist (EVA) exhibition featuring Black Hills artist, Juli Teasley. Her exhibition will be on display in the Bruce H. Lien Cultural Café & Gallery from January 21 - March 1, 2025. An artist reception featuring an Artist meet and greet will be held on February 20, from 5-7 PM. Admission is free. Juli Teasley, a biracial, queer artist, uses photography and mixed media to explore storytelling, memory, and identity. Her art combines vibrant visuals with deep emotion, using color, space, and symbolism to connect with viewers. Juli’s work has earned multiple awards and recognition, including multiple Gold and Silver ADDY Awards, first place in the Ruddell Gallery Student Juried Exhibition at Black Hills State University, and features in Three Peaks Literary Magazine. About her work, Juli says, “This series is a symbolic visualization shown through the eyes of myself as a child, my desire to Choose The Right, and my hindsight as an adult. It portrays the existential confusion I grew up with, both toward my own identity as well as my family’s, in accordance with the practices and inner workings of the church.” About the Emerging Visual Artist (EVA) Program: The EVA program supports artists who are exhibiting their work for the first time, offering guidance throughout the process. RCAC’s curatorial team assists with selecting works, providing critiques, pricing, writing statements, and promoting the exhibition. This program is currently taking submissions! To learn more about this program and how to get involved, visit www.rapidcityartscouncil.org/emerging-visual-artists. For more information about current exhibits at the Dahl, visit the website. ### For More Information: Jeannie Larson Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 x2 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  For Immediate Release: December 17, 2024 Rapid City Arts Council Opens 2025 City Arts Fund Grant Application Supporting Arts Nonprofits in Rapid City Rapid City, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) champions the power of art to bring people together and serves to promote the arts in the Rapid City area. In partnership with the City of Rapid City, the arts council aims to do that by helping to fund access to the arts for the entire community. As part of a continued investment, RCAC announces the launch of the 2025 City Arts Investment Fund (AIF) grant program committing $100,000 of city funds to nonprofit organizations proposing unique artistic and cultural experiences for the Rapid City community. The City Arts Investment Fund Grant Program reflects the shared priority of building a vibrant community. Managed by the Rapid City Arts Council, Mayor Jason Salamun allocated a grant budget of $100,000 for 2025 to support the city’s “Community Enrichment” goals. This year, the City has created a separate fund for its five municipal arts & culture organizations. As a result, the entire AIF budget will be available to arts and culture organizations that apply, tripling the funding available for awards! All nonprofit arts and culture organizations serving Rapid City residents are encouraged to apply. In 2024, RCAC distributed $100,000 on behalf of the city to its musical and historical establishments, including the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, Dakota Choral Union, Rapid City Municipal Band, Rapid City Ranger Band, and the Black Hills Historical Society (formerly known as the Minnilusa Historical Association), and to competitive applicants including Backroom Productions, Black Hills Center for Equality, Black Hills Chamber Music Society, Black Hills Community Theater, Black Hills Pow Wow Association, Chamber Music Festival, Dakota Artists Guild, Flutter Productions (a program of Black Hills Works), Racing Magpie, and the Rushmore Music Festival. The 2025 grant application is now open. Submission criteria includes:
Application Guidelines AIF grant program guidelines and the application form are available on the RCAC website. To apply, review the guidelines and complete the questionnaire in the 2025 Grant Application Form. Applications, along with the necessary supporting documents, must be submitted to the Rapid City Arts Council by Thursday, January 16, 2024, by 11:59 PM MT. Applicants will be notified by March 1. Questions about the grant process and/or requirements are welcome by email only. Questions must be received by email at [email protected] before 5:00PM MST, January 9, 2025. Full grant program details available here: RCAC Website. ## Contact: Maggie Lepa-Wince Marketing Director Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 x5 [email protected] The purpose of the Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is to champion the power of art to bring all kinds of people together, making art more accessible, more integral, and more inspiring for the communities we serve. RCAC was established by community leaders in 1968 and officially partnered with the city in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center and expand arts and cultural resources. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and educational classes. Supported by individual donors and organizations such as the Black Hills Area Community Foundation, John T. Vucurevich Foundation, the South Dakota Arts Council through the South Dakota Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts, and others, RCAC is committed to enriching the community's artistic and cultural experiences. Located at 713 7th St in Downtown Rapid City, the center offers free admission and is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Discover more at rapidcityartscouncil.org.  |
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE RAPID CITY ARTS COUNCIL
The Rapid City Arts Council staff and Board of Directors thanks the City of Rapid City for continuously supporting our mission and the arts. The generosity of our many volunteers, donors, and members drives our mission to champion inclusive, innovative and inspiring arts opportunities to enrich the communities we serve. Additional support comes from the South Dakota Community Foundation, Black Hills Community Foundation, and the South Dakota Arts Council with funds from the State of South Dakota through the Department of Tourism and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Dahl Arts Center is a municipal facility of the City of Rapid City and is managed by the Rapid City Arts Council on behalf of the Rapid City community.