 For Immediate Release: February 4, 2026
Beautifying Rapid City One Mural At A Time! Rapid City, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is inviting South Dakota artists to submit proposals for two large-scale outdoor murals as part of Rapid City’s Downtown Beautification Project. This public art initiative seeks to transform Rapid City through murals that reflect the region’s natural beauty and community spirit. The theme for these murals will be nature-themed, specifically nature that is in the surrounding Black Hills. The artist will be responsible for all wall preparation, paint, and materials, with the project completed by early July, weather permitting. Submissions must be sent by March 20, 2026 at 11:59pm. To learn more about this project visit our website at, rapidcityartscouncil.org/downtownmuralproject. Locations A: One of the murals will be installed in Art Alley on the south-facing wall located at the entry of Art Alley off 6th Street in Downtown Rapid City. Location B: Announced Soon Artist Eligibility:
Proposal Requirements:
Email submissions to: [email protected] Subject Line: Community Murals - [Your Last Name] with all accompanying documents. Proposals received later than 11:59pm on March 20 will not be considered. The RCAC will select the two proposals that:
Important Dates:
To learn more about this project visit: rapidcityartscouncil.org/downtownmuralproject. ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.719.7218 [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: Feb 3, 2026
The Alchemist Lumi’s First Solo Exhibition at the Dahl RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) is excited to announce that Lumi will have her first solo exhibition at the Dahl Arts Center. The exhibition titled, The Alchemist, will be on display in the Ruth Brennan Gallery from February 20 through April 11, 2026. Lumi will give an artist’s talk at 6pm. This exhibition will bring together two series created by Lumi over the past few years: La Période Bleue (The Blue Period) and La Période Lumière (The Light Period). This immersive, two-part show follows the artist’s personal and spiritual journey, starting with a deep exploration of the color blue and expanding into a full spectrum of light. La Periode Bleue explores ideas of time, memory, and the unseen, resulting in dreamlike scenes where figures and their higher selves move through imagined worlds. The exhibition will then shift to La Periode Lumiere, a new collection of works inspired by sacred geometry, alchemy, and the artist’s growing spiritual awareness. In this series, the work becomes more abstract as the blue transitions to yellows, reds, black, and white, reflecting themes of clarity, chang,e and inner growth. Lumi was born in Bozeman, Montana, in 1997. Soon after she was born, her parents moved to western South Dakota. They raised her in the Black Hills, where she developed a love of nature that has greatly impacted her work throughout her spiritual journey. Currently, she works predominantly as a painter, but she also spends time on intuitive drawing and writing to continue generating new compositions and ideas. She believes the importance of creating is within the intention and the process, more so than the result, finding herself in the midst of an endless conversation with the universe. Lumi earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Black Hills State University in May of 2021. She has been a part of several group shows in the Black Hills area, including the Art House in Hot Springs, the Matthew's Opera House and Art Center in Spearfish. For more information on exhibits at the Dahl, please visit: www.thedahl.org/current ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.719.7218 [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 20, 2026
High School Art Competition Expands RAPID CITY, SD – The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) invites high school students from Western South Dakota to participate in the annual Best of the West art exhibition and competition. This is a juried exhibition that celebrates the creativity, talent, and diverse voices of the region’s young artists and provides the opportunity for students to showcase their artwork in a professional gallery setting. Formerly focused on Rapid City Area Schools, the RCAC is excited to expand this exhibition to a wider region. Students in 9-12th grade from Butte, Lawrence, Meade, Pennington, Custer, Fall River, and Oglala counties are encouraged to share their creative vision for a chance to win cash prizes that will be awarded during an awards ceremony on May 15 at 6pm. The submission process is simple. Students will fill out an online application and submit photographs to [email protected] with the subject line: “BOTW- 26 [Your Last Name]” by April 17. Jurors will select this year’s participants through a blind jurying process based on creativity, originality, and quality of the work submitted. Selected pieces of art can be dropped off at the Dahl Arts Center or select locations in Spearfish, Hot Springs, Pine Ridge, and Custer. The Best of the West Exhibition provides high school students with the opportunity to showcase their talents while fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and respect. By participating, students contribute to a celebration of art that reflects creativity, inclusivity, and integrity. Thank you for joining us in this journey to highlight the artistic excellence in our community! For more information and how to submit, please visit: thedahl.org/botw. ### For More Information: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.719.7218 [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 3, 2025
Rapid City Arts Council Opens 2026 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 2026 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. Consisting of an allocated $100,000 in 2026, Major Jason Salamun has tasked the Rapid City Arts Council to manage the Arts Investment Fund to support the city’s “Community Enrichment” goals. All nonprofit and cultural organizations serving Rapid City residents are encouraged to apply. The Arts Investment Fund serves Rapid City’s arts and culture organizations alongside separate operational funding set aside within the City budget to support the five municipal arts & culture organizations. In 2025, RCAC distributed $100,000 on behalf of the city to its arts and cultural establishments, including Backroom Productions Inc., Black Hills Center for Equality, Black Hills Community Theatre, Black Hills Dance Theatre, Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, Catalyst Theater Company, Chamber Music Festival of the Black Hills, Dakota Choral Union, Flutter Productions/Black Hills Works, Rushmore Music Festival, and the Rapid City Arts Council. The 2026 grant application is now open. Submission criteria include:
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 2026 Grant Application Form. Applications, along with the necessary supporting documents, must be submitted to the Rapid City Arts Council by Thursday, January 22, 2026, by 11:59 PM MT. Applicants will be notified by March 2. 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 MT, January 15, 2026. 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.  For Immediate Release: September 25, 2025
TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR THE DAHL HAUS ART AUCTION + HAUS PARTY Featuring Works By Over 40 Artists to Support Local Arts and Celebrate Creativity Rapid City, SD - The Rapid City Arts Council (RCAC) Board of Directors is proud to announce The Dahl’s Benefit Art Auction, opening on November 7, 2025. The auction will feature a curated selection of works from over 40 Black Hills artists and collectors, opening with a celebration on November 7 from 6-9pm. The benefit auction will help RCAC to continue bringing the Rapid City community together through art by funding the many visual and performing arts programs and art education programs/spaces at the Dahl. “The annual art auction is a cornerstone event for the Rapid City arts community. It provides support for all of the mission-driven programs that RCAC currently provides while opening doors for program expansions,” said RCAC Executive Director Travis Dewes. “Driven by the power of local art, we hope our community is inspired during this time to support the Rapid City Arts Council and take home some wonderful art!” "As we commemorate another fantastic year of the Dahl Arts Center, the Board of Directors and I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our donors and Friends of the Dahl," said RCAC Board President Anjelica Sasse. “By supporting the Dahl, you’re celebrating the power of creativity to transform lives and our community." The auction, hosted virtually, will feature over 50 artworks by some of the region’s most prominent established and emerging artists. Bidding is online-only, running from Friday, November 7 at 6pm through Saturday, November 15 at 5pm. This auction and exhibit will be held in the Denise Du Broy Gallery & Inez + Milton Shaver Gallery, offering a range of artworks in various sizes and mediums, with the format in which artists can decide how much of the sale to donate. The roster of artists participating in the auction and exhibition includes Emma Rivers, Tim Peterson, Tenyoh, Tia Erin, Mark Zimmerman, Mary Wipf, and many others! Dahl Haus Celebrations The Dahl Haus theme is inspired by the Bauhaus Art Movement of Germany in the early 20th Century. The movement was focused around absurdist and avant-garde expressions of color, performance, and collaboration – all of which still influence the way arts are experienced today. Bauhaus’ key tenets inspired us to create a community-forward event to celebrate the arts in a fun way. Dess Code/Costumes aren’t required, but if looking for inspiration, visit our website: thedahl.org/dahlhaus for some more info on the theme. The Benefit Art Auction is a virtual event featuring over 40 original works by renowned regional artists. Bidding will be hosted online only at secure.qgiv.com/event/dahlhaus, from Friday, November 7 at 6pm to Saturday, November 15 at 5pm. On Friday, November 7, the Rapid City Arts Council Board of Directors will host the Dahl Haus Art Auction + Haus Party at the Dahl Arts Center. This celebration will raise vital funds to ensure the Dahl remains a vibrant institution for future generations. The evening’s events will be emcee’d by Ryan Puffer, Black Hills Community Theatre, and include specialty cocktails by Windsor Block Bar, gallery viewing, heavy hors d'oeuvres by Nell’s Gourmet, and the silent art auction. The electric Haus Party DJ Set by Soulscend will open in the Cyclorama from 8:30-10:30. For those who only want to dance at the Haus Party, separate tickets are available at a reduced rate. Tickets are available at thedahl.org/dahlhaus. Additionally, Rapid City Arts Council will host a family-friendly community appreciation night to commemorate the Dahl Arts Center Day. The free event will include art activities, performances, games provided by Who’s Toy House, and a delicious dessert. The event will take place on Friday, October 24, 2026, from 5-8pm at the Dahl Arts Center. The Dahl Haus festivities are made possible in part by Security First Bank, Crazy Horse Memorial, First Peoples Fund, Homeslice Media Group, Jolly Lane Greenhouse, Monument Health, Who’s Toy House, Windsor Block Bar, and the "Friends of the Dahl," whose annual membership donations support arts and cultural programs year-round. For more information about the Dahl Arts Center’s Dahl Haus celebrations, visit thedahl.org/dahlhaus. ABOUT The Dahl Arts Center (thedahl.org) is a community arts center located in Rapid City, SD. The Dahl includes art galleries, an education center with art studios, a performing arts venue, and the Dahl Artists' Market. The center is open Monday through Saturday; admission is always free. Friends of the Dahl (thedahl.org/membership) are annual members who actively support visual arts, performing arts, and arts education at the Dahl. Friends of the Dahl provide vital support for the diverse year-round programs, events and arts education that reach thousands of children and adults. Rapid City Arts Council (rapidcityartscouncil.org): Founded in 1968, 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 partnered with the City of Rapid City in 1974 to manage the Dahl Arts Center on behalf of the community. RCAC creates and supports diverse programming in exhibitions, performances, and arts education. 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. ### CONTACT INFORMATION: Maggie Lepa-Wince Rapid City Arts Council 605.394.4101 [email protected]  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.  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. |
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.