 For Immediate Release: September 22, 2025
Mickey MacKaben to Debut a Pop-Up Art Exhibition to Encourage Conversations Around Youth Mental Wellness RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) & Black Hills Area Community Foundation (BHACF) are delighted to announce that Mickey MacKaben has been selected to create an interactive pop-up art exhibition called “The Inside Out Tree.” The pop-up will be at the Dahl Arts Center, opening October 10 from 3-5pm! The exhibit, designed to strengthen youth mental wellness, responds directly to community voices. In 2025, Black Hills residents called for more investment in “youth mental wellness” through BHACF’s annual Thriving Communities Survey. Residents emphasized a need for resources that encourage open conversations about mental wellness to reduce stigma. The Inside Out Tree is an interactive, multi-sensory art installation designed to give young people a voice, a safe space to share vulnerability, and an opportunity to educate their communities in an empathetic and transformative way. Mental health challenges are often invisible — especially for youth, who may feel pressure to present a version of themselves that hides their inner struggles. A sculptural tree serves as the centerpiece, built from natural materials and designed for hands-on community interaction. The installation creates three engagement zones: Roots Zone - "What We Carry": Cloth strips and paper elements hang near the tree's base, representing common struggles young people face. Visitors can add their own anonymous contributions or read affirmations and coping strategies. This space normalizes mental health challenges as part of the human experience. Trunk Zone - "Growing Together": A collaborative surface where community members add drawings, words of support, or artistic marks. This grows into a visual representation of collective strength throughout the exhibition. Branches Zone - "Messages of Hope": The most participatory element—visitors write supportive messages, affirmations, or personal reflections on paper leaves and attach them to branches. Each contribution helps the tree grow, creating a living symbol of community care. The community is invited to participate in creating “The Inside Out Tree” on September 26th from 3:30-6pm and October 7th & 9th from 3:30-6pm. All supplies will be provided! This project doesn't just raise awareness about youth mental health—it creates a model for ongoing community dialogue. By centering youth voices and requiring community participation, it transforms mental health from a difficult topic into a shared commitment to supporting young people's resilience and growth. In addition to supporting the Inside Out Tree exhibit, BHACF and its giving circle members directed $145,000 in grants to nine nonprofits that strengthen youth mental wellness across the Black Hills. Learn more about the grantees on BHACF’s website: bhacf.org/thriving-communities. The RCAC and BHACF will be hosting an opening reception with Mickey MacKaben on October 10 from 3-5pm in the lobby of the Dahl Arts Center. The interactive exhibit will include messages of support for young people and connect youth to resources. Community members can visit to add their own contributions to the artwork. ### 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.
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 For Immediate Release: August 27, 2025
Rapid City Arts Council Announces New Executive Director, Travis Dewes RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is ecstatic to announce that Travis Dewes has been named the new Executive Director of the Rapid City Arts Council, effective immediately. An arts and museum professional in the Black Hills, Dewes is dedicated to cultural engagement and community enrichment through the arts. “We are so incredibly excited for Travis to lead this next era of the Rapid City Arts Council! His passion for the arts is palpable in every conversation that we’ve had with him. Travis truly understands the power of the arts in our community and the importance of cultivating an atmosphere where all generations can enjoy art; he sees the value of building meaningful connections, being accountable in executing our plans and strategies, and providing the kind of environment for our incredible staff to thrive and grow.” Says Anjelica Sasse, RCAC Board President, “Travis will certainly be a non-profit leader to watch in our community. Art is transformational and for everyone – having the right leader at the right time can strengthen our impact in communicating that message.” Most recently, Dewes held the position of Cultural Programs Manager at The Indian Museum of North America at Crazy Horse Memorial, where he worked with hundreds of Indigenous artists and culture bearers from throughout North America to educate the thousands of visitors at the Memorial annually. Over 100 Indigenous artists were hosted at the Memorial each year during his time within 7 different educational programs that included residencies, workshops, daily and special performances, and the annual Native Americans’ Day celebration. During his time at the Memorial, Dewes also held the position of Interim Museum Director in which he led staff through milestone strategic initiatives that included projects in large-scale program development/expansion, facility improvements, collections management, development, and donor relations. An outspoken advocate for the arts, Dewes was a go-to media contact regarding arts and culture for the Memorial and has done numerous media interviews promoting events, programs, and the Mission-driven activities centered around Indigenous heritage. Prior to Crazy Horse Memorial, Dewes worked with Tim Giago at Native Sun News Today in Rapid City, where he held positions that included Staff Writer, Sports Editor, and Columnist. He began to develop strong relationships with Native peoples throughout his time at Native Sun News and, as a non-Native person, started building a strong personal foundation in cultural and historical awareness. Dewes has been a Board member of the Museum Alliance of Rapid City (MARC or the Journey Museum) since 2019 and has held the position of Governance Chair since 2023. He was recently re-elected as one of four MARC Board members to continue within the new organizational structure post Journey Museum and Black Hills Historical Society merger in 2025 but will step down from the MARC Board to focus completely on the Rapid City Arts Council. Born and raised in Rapid City, Dewes attended South Dakota State University and received a B.A. in History. He also holds a Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism Destination Management from George Washington University. Stepping out of the Interim Executive Director position, Marty Two Bulls Jr. is looking forward to creating more art, explaining, “It’s been an honor to serve as the Interim Executive Director for the RCAC during our transition of leadership. My decision to pitch in temporarily was rooted in my commitment to RCAC’s mission. I deeply believe in the power of art and its many benefits to our community. Although I’m glad I could help, I’m greatly looking forward to getting back into the studio.” Stepping into the Executive Director role at the Rapid City Arts Council, Dewes is excited to work with diverse community stakeholders to continue realizing the power of the arts in Rapid City and help build meaningful connections between all community members. As Executive Director, Dewes 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 about everyone on the RCAC staff and board, visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/ourteam. To set up an interview with Travis Dewes, please contact RCAC Marketing Director Maggie Lepa-Wince at [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.  For Immediate Release: August 20, 2025
Fall Education Schedule Released at the Community Art Center Explore Creativity at the Dahl Arts Center RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is excited to announce the fall semester of arts education classes, programs, and exciting events happening at the Dahl Arts Center. Every year, RCAC creates programming that our community is excited about and eager to pick up the supplies to learn. Some new offerings this semester are a beginner Crochet class and an Afterschool Art Club for middle school students. Adult Education classes at the Dahl are for people of all abilities, ages 14 and up. Register for classes at rapidcityartscouncil.org/adultclasses. The Open Pottery Studio at the Dahl will be hosting a Teapot Competition on November 6. This is a chance to present the functional work of art you’ve created. In preparation for this competition, RCAC is offering both Teapot Handbuilding, starting September 8, and Teapot Wheel Throwing, starting Sep 17, both from 5:30-8:30pm. RCAC will be throwing clay at the Handbuilding for All, starting September 10 from 12-2pm. This class is designed specifically to accommodate accessibility measures required by handbuilding students, making handbuilding accessible for people with differing abilities. For those who look down at their hands and wish they could draw the shapes in their head, Introduction to Drawing with Anastasia is the chance to develop observation, shading, and perspective skills. The 4-session Introduction to Drawing class starts September 2 from 5:30-8:30. For welcoming spooky season artfully, the fantastical Michelle Langemeier has a handbuilding class where students will create a pinch pot salt pig, a luminary, a coil candy bowl, and a chance to explore creativity and build whatever their heart desires. This 5-session class starts September 22. The most popular adult class this summer was our Intro to Watercolor class. Starting October 7, it’s back! Practice a variety of subjects like landscapes, botanicals, animals, and everyday objects. Learn the essentials to get started with the medium and create vibrant watercolor works. Our instructor, Callie, would also love to work with intermediate to advanced students. Regardless of your skill or experience level, this class is a great fit for those wanting to do more with watercolor. Fiber arts have arrived at the Dahl this autumn. Intro to Crochet is making its 2025 debut on October 8, from 1-3pm on Wednesdays. Students will learn foundational skills like slip knot, chain stitch, single & double crochet, and how to read a pattern. Take a class in the Open Art Studio! Live Model Drawing Class will run for another 6 weeks, starting Sunday, October 12. This drop-in format allows flexibility for artists to attend as their schedules permit. Pre-registration is encouraged, and sessions will only run with at least four participants signed up 24 hours in advance. Youth Education classes at the Dahl are for children of all abilities, grades K-12. Register for classes at rapidcityartscouncil.org/youthclasses. Art can be a powerful tool for self-expression during the teen years. The Dahl’s Teen Art Studio offers students in grades 6–12 a chance to explore their creative voice, meet other young artists, and build a portfolio of original work. Applications are open now for the fall session, and an Open House will be held on August 22 for students and families interested in learning more. Afterschool Art Club is a space for students of varying ages to express their creativity through guided lessons. September will focus on character design, while October will be more focused on storytelling through art. Each age grouping will meet on a different day. K-2 will be on Thursdays, grades 3-5 will be on Tuesdays, and the newest group, grades 6-8 will be on Wednesdays. Middle School Mural Masters will allow students to share their voices and visions. This 6-session class is structured to introduce students to the history of murals and public art, while exploring themes of community, identity, and dreams. The conclusion of the class will be an exhibition, celebrating the muralists’ work and ideas by hanging their art in the Bruce H. Lien Cultural Café & Gallery. Afterschool Clay Club is a pottery class designed specifically for budding artists in 3rd-5th Grade. With a hands-on approach to the wonderful world of pottery, these young artists will get a chance to mold their masterpieces using slabs, coils, and other hand-forming clay techniques. The Rapid City Arts Council proudly offers financial assistance to anyone where registration fees would be a barrier to participation. To open the door to funds, visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/scholarships. Take some time to explore your creativity at your local community art center. The Dahl Arts Center is located across 7th Street from the Library, Downtown Rapid City. Admission to the galleries is always free thanks to our generous supporters and Friends of the Dahl. For more information about our upcoming classes, please visit our website rapidcityartscouncil.org or contact us at [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.  For Immediate Release: June 25, 2025
New Wildlife Photography Exhibit Invites Viewers to Slow Down: “Rush-less in Rushmore” Opens at the Dahl Arts Center Exhibition: Rush-less in Rushmore Featured Artist: Ankit Negi Exhibition Dates: 07.07.25 - 08.29.25 Reception Date: Thursday, July 17 | 5-6pm Location: Bruce H Lien Cultural Café & Gallery, Dahl Arts Center The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is proud to present the next Emerging Visual Artist (EVA) exhibition, featuring photographer Ankit Negi of Currylab Captures. His exhibition, Rush-less in Rushmore, will be on display in the Bruce H. Lien Cultural Café & Gallery from July 7 through August 29. An artist reception will be held on Thursday, July 17 from 5-6pm. Admission is free and open to the public. Born in the Himalayan foothills of India and now based in Rapid City, Ankit is a self-taught digital wildlife photographer whose work captures the unfiltered beauty of South Dakota’s native wildlife. With a strong emphasis on ethical and unbaited practices, his images reflect moments of survival, stillness, and connection in the wild. His recent projects include documenting bison births at Custer State Park and a current study on burrowing owls in Badlands National Park. His EVA Exhibition invites viewers to slow down and experience the quiet space between subject and lens—challenging the fast pace often associated with wildlife photography and inviting deeper reflection. This exhibition is part of RCAC’s Emerging Visual Artists (EVA) program at the Dahl. EVA supports visual artists looking to gain experience working with art galleries and exhibiting their works for the first time. RCAC's staff works with the artist through the process, from selecting works, getting critiques, pricing, writing a statement, and creating and promoting the exhibit. EVA is currently accepting applications for the 2025 season and encourages artists to submit proposals of original works. To learn more about the EVA visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/emerging-visual-artists. ### 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: May 28, 2025
Bearwell: Big Read Rapid City Wraps Up Final Event Celebrates a Season of Literature, Art, and Community RAPID CITY, SD — The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) proudly presents Bearwell: The Final Chapter, the culminating celebration of its 2025 NEA Big Read Rapid City program. The event will take place on Saturday, June 14, from 10am to 1pm in the Artists’ Market at the Dahl Arts Center. The community is invited to enjoy a warm and reflective finale to this season’s shared reading experience, featuring tea from local vendor Sun Pine Moon, live music, and free copies of The Bear by Andrew Krivak (available while supplies last). In addition to celebrating The Bear, the event will also showcase a curated selection of books by local authors—giving attendees a chance to explore the literary talent of our region and connect directly with the writers who call the Black Hills home, including Susan Turnbull, Jodi Case, Julianne Doherty and Melissa Two Crow. This year’s NEA Big Read initiative, centered around Krivak’s lyrical post-apocalyptic novel The Bear, sparked powerful dialogue and engagement across the Rapid City community. Through a robust series of programs and partnerships, the initiative reached audiences citywide, with:
One of the most powerful aspects of the Big Read was witnessing how deeply artists connected with The Bear and translated its themes into visual form. The Wayfinder exhibition brought together a diverse group of creators whose work reflected personal, emotional, and philosophical responses to the text. Participating artist Lumi shared her experience: “Participating in a show inspired by The Bear was both uplifting and thought-provoking. It was fascinating to witness the diverse ways in which each artist’s soul connected with different elements of the same novel—proof that while we may read the same words, our souls listen for different echoes. This collective exploration serves as a powerful reminder of how a single work can spark a cascade of creative interpretations which I am forever grateful to be a part of. The creative exchange that unfolds from one mind to another is endlessly fulfilling and profoundly inspiring.” As a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest, the NEA Big Read is designed to broaden our understanding of the human experience through literature. This year’s selected title resonated deeply with local readers, prompting reflection on themes such as environmental stewardship, generational knowledge, solitude, and human connection. “The Bear sparked meaningful conversations throughout our community and inspired us to explore its themes in unique and engaging ways,” said Aly Quinn, Events Coordinator at the Rapid City Public Library. “We’ve hosted 20 events so far—with 411 attendees—and will continue programming into June, thanks to strong community interest. From writing workshops and book discussions to special interest and collaborative events with partners like Custer State Park, the response has been outstanding. The book in its various forms has circulated 122 times in the past six months, a clear sign of how deeply it resonated with local readers.” Reflecting on the overall impact of the program, Maggie Lepa-Wince, Marketing Director at the Rapid City Arts Council, emphasized the power of shared stories and the strength of community collaboration: “Watching our community come together around this book has been incredibly moving. What began as a story about solitude and survival turned into something much bigger—an invitation to connect, reflect, and create. The collaboration with the Rapid City Public Library was especially meaningful and strengthened a relationship rooted in shared values. Literature is art, and this project proved just how much connection and creativity can grow from a single story.” Bearwell: The Final Chapter marks not just the close of a grant cycle, but a celebration of what’s possible when a city comes together around a single story. The RCAC encourages all community members to stop by, enjoy a cup of tea, browse local artwork, and toast the close of a successful season of collective reflection and imagination. While the Dahl Arts Center might not be the first place you think of when it comes to buying books, it’s a hidden gem for readers who want to support local voices. Authors are artists, too—and just like painters, sculptors, and musicians, they shape how we see the world. The Dahl proudly features a curated selection of books exclusively by local authors, celebrating the literary talent in our region and offering stories rooted in the landscapes, histories, and imaginations of our community. While Bearwell: The Final Chapter marks the final Big Read event hosted at the Dahl Arts Center, the celebration continues with one more community gathering presented by the Rapid City Public Library. On Sunday, June 22, from 10am to 12pm, families are invited to Dinosaur Park Story Time, a free outdoor literacy event designed for young readers and their caregivers. Following a brief story time at 10am, children will receive Dinosaur Passports to explore themed activity stations spread throughout the park—each hosted by a different community partner like the Black Hills Raptor Center, the SDSMT Museum of Geology, and Dinosaur Park Gift Shop & and Visitor’s Center. As kids collect stamps and enjoy crafts, parents can connect with organizations sharing exciting summer opportunities. Free popsicles await those who complete their passports, and trolley service from the downtown library will be available from 9am to 1pm to ease transportation. The library encourages attendees to park downtown and take the free trolley to the event to avoid traffic congestion at the Park. Thank you for celebrating literary connection with us. For more information about the events or the NEA Big Read program, please visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/bigread. ### 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. Portals and Shrines: Seeing the World From Here by Rapid City artist Darrel Nelson opens June 65/21/2025  For Immediate Release: May 21, 2025
Portals and Shrines: Seeing the World From Here by Rapid City artist Darrel Nelson opens June 6 RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is proud to announce a new solo exhibition by multidisciplinary artist Darrel Nelson. The exhibition, Portals and Shrines: Seeing the World From Here, will open in the Ruth Brennan Gallery of the Dahl Arts Center on June 6 and run through September 6. In addition to this exhibition, the RCAC will host an opening reception on June 6 from 5-7pm with an artist talk at 5:45pm. Darrel Nelson is a lifelong artist, educator and curator whose creative path has spanned continents and creative disciplines. With a background that includes graduate study in Korea, university teaching in South Dakota, and museum work in Deadwood, Nelson has explored media ranging from oil painting to graphic design to wood sculpture. He describes himself as a man “living in the ‘Wow’ chapter of his life,” embracing astonishment and gratitude as guiding principles for both life and art. His latest work fuses carefully crafted wood forms, natural elements, and symbolic references to create surreal assemblages that appear both ancient and futuristic. Titles such as Featherweight, Geoscope, and Cerebreliquary (images attached) exemplify his whimsical yet reverent approach to the materials. “We are inundated daily with objects made from human hands, far more than we can notice, let alone discern,” writes Nelson. “This exhibition is a collection of objects that invite not only attention but unguarded internal conversation. I hope this happens for all who see them.” This exhibition continues Nelson’s evolving creative journey, following two previous solo shows at the Dahl. In 2010, What Am I Doing Here? featured an ever-changing installation that invited the public to return Nelson’s anonymously placed wooden objects—discovered throughout the region—and share the stories of their discoveries. In 2018, Life Lines showcased a different facet of his practice through a vibrant series of abstract colored pencil drawings, offering insight into the artist’s contemplative and intuitive approach to mark-making. In addition to Darrel Nelson’s solo exhibition, the Rapid City Arts Council will also unveil a fresh installation of its Permanent Collection on June 6. Featuring a selection of works from RCAC’s growing collection of regional and contemporary art, this exhibition offers visitors a chance to explore the creative legacy and evolving artistic voices of our community. On view through August 23, 2025, the exhibition reflects the depth and diversity of the artists who have contributed to the cultural fabric of the Black Hills and beyond. Join us on Thursday, June 6, from 5 to 7pm at the Dahl Arts Center to celebrate the opening of Portals and Shrines: Seeing the World From Here and the refreshed Permanent Collection exhibition. Enjoy a lively evening featuring a beer and wine bar (cash and card accepted), light refreshments, and the opportunity to meet the artist and purchase original artwork. This free event is open to all—come experience an inspiring night of art and community. ### For More Information: Noah Geiger 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: May 13, 2025
One Roll at a Time—Michelle Langemeier Explores Fantasy, Function, and Storytelling Through Ceramic Dice Towers RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is delighted to present One Roll at a Time, an Emerging Visual Artists exhibition by local multidisciplinary artist Michelle Langemeier, on view May 14 through June 30 in the Bruce H. Lien Cultural Café & Gallery at the Dahl Arts Center. A public reception will be held on Thursday, May 29, from 4–6pm, offering an opportunity to meet the artist, view the work up close, and purchase artwork from the exhibition. Langemeier’s body of work features handcrafted ceramic dice towers—each one a sculptural homage to the imaginative worlds of tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Langemeier began her creative journey in 2004, earning recognition in alternative process photography publications before transitioning to 3D art in 2020. Clay quickly became her medium of choice, offering a bridge between imagination and tangible form. What is a dice tower? A dice tower is a functional gaming accessory used to ensure fair and randomized dice rolls during tabletop games like Dungeons & Dragons. Players drop their dice into the top of the tower, where they tumble through a series of internal ramps before emerging at the base. Dice towers are often used during pivotal moments of gameplay, when every roll counts and the stakes are high. Langemeier's work invites players to reconnect with creativity, play, and storytelling. Her dice towers serve as both functional game tools and expressive art objects, reflecting the mystique of untamed forests, mythical beasts, and the surreal landscapes of our inner worlds. Most towers are available for purchase, offering players and collectors a chance to bring a piece of this imaginative world into their own. Michelle Langemeier will also be leading Introduction to Handbuilding, a 6-week clay course beginning Monday, June 9. Designed for both beginners and intermediate students, the class offers a hands-on exploration of fundamental hand-building techniques like slab and coil construction. Each week, students will complete a unique project while learning key principles of form, balance, and proportion. Alongside developing technical skills, participants will engage in group discussions and critiques, creating a supportive environment for growth, experimentation, and creative expression. To enroll, visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/classes. One Roll at a Time invites players and art lovers alike to reconnect with creativity, connection, and play—one roll at a time. This exhibition is part of RCAC’s Emerging Visual Artists (EVA) program at the Dahl. EVA supports visual artists looking to gain experience working with art galleries and exhibiting their works for the first time. RCAC's staff works with the artist through the process, from selecting works, getting critiques, pricing, writing a statement, and creating and promoting the exhibit. EVA is currently accepting applications for the 2025 season and encourages artists to submit proposals of original works. To learn more about the EVA visit www.thedahl.org/eva. ### 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. Grab an Apron and Get Ready for an Art Adventure with Rapid City Arts Council’s Summer Camps4/28/2025  For Immediate Release: April 28, 2025
Grab an Apron and Get Ready for an Art Adventure with Rapid City Arts Council’s Summer Camps RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is excited to announce its Summer Art Camps for 2025! Get ready for a global art adventure as the RCAC will cross land and sea through hands-on art projects aimed at educating and entertaining youth entering grades 1 through 6. Camps will run for 4 days at a time from the first week of June through the second week in August, offering a plethora of activities centered around engaging Rapid City’s elementary students when schools dismiss for the summer. Hosted at the Dahl Arts Center, a cornerstone for community arts education located in downtown Rapid City, these 20 camps provide a creative outlet in a positive environment where children can learn, play, and grow. RCAC’s programs are based on national standards for high-quality arts education. Each camp includes “choice-based” art lessons designed to enhance creativity and critical thinking. Campers will bring home art and lifelong memories from projects like Paper Mâché Planets, Flower & Leaf Pressings, Handmade Botanical Paper, and Jellyfish Mobiles! Most summer camps take place Monday-Thursday from 9am to 3pm, with lessons led by certified art teachers. The June and July Clay Camps will run on Fridays throughout their respective months, offering focused exploration of handbuilding and ceramic techniques. Every camp includes a tour of the galleries at the Dahl in addition to artmaking in the classroom, providing campers with the opportunity to engage with art in a variety of ways. Students should bring a sack lunch, a water bottle, and be dressed ready to get creative and a little messy. Melissa Nelson, Education Director for the RCAC said, "At the Rapid City Arts Council, we’re proud to deliver high-quality, engaging, and standards-aligned educational experiences that inspire creativity and critical thinking. Our summer camps offer fun, meaningful opportunities for all youth in our community to explore, create, and grow." Older students, currently in grades 6-12, can take advantage of our Junior Counselors program, where they work closely with staff, camp instructors, and enthusiastic campers to create a fun and inspiring art camp experience. Gain invaluable hands-on experience in a professional art education setting while developing essential leadership skills. If a student is interested in this program, they should visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/summercamps to learn more and apply. Generous support from donors such as the Gwendolyn L. Stearn Foundation, the John T. Vucurevich Foundation, individual donors, and the City of Rapid City enables RCAC to provide affordable, high-quality educational experiences in the arts for more than 2,000 Rapid City youth each year. Through these donations, more than $10,000 in scholarship funds are available to families with financial need interested in placing children in RCAC’s educational programs. Those interested in seeking financial assistance for summer art camp enrollment may submit a brief form before the start date of the camp. The form is available at: visit rapidcityartscouncil.org/scholarships. For questions or to get assistance, please contact us at: [email protected]. Registration is now open at rapidcityartscouncil.org/summercamps. Spots fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged. Scholarships through the Open Door Fund are available for families where registration fees would be a barrier to participation. Don't miss this opportunity to make art, make friends, and make the most of summer with RCAC! ### 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: 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.  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. |
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 Area 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.