Aitkin’s Jaques Art Center Passes Knowledge to Next Generation with Mini Art Classes

Young artists from around Aitkin County have been filling the Jaques Art Center for free Mini Art Classes this month. Kids had the opportunity to learn more about art mediums like scratchboard, mixed media, and acrylic on tile.

The Jaques Art Center has been in Aitkin for 30 years and works to celebrate visual arts in north central Minnesota by presenting art exhibits, workshops, and other programming to all ages and backgrounds. Those at the center hope that the classes help preserve the town’s artistic roots and have children keep making art.

“Our art education department in our elementary school was cut a couple of years ago,” said Jaques Art Center Executive Director Pamela Andell. “So, we’ve tried to step up the pace with providing art for any of our students that want to come here but also, pursuing them at the elementary school and bringing our art to them for after-school art classes.”

The Jaques Art Center is currently displaying the “Rotating Artist’s Exhibit” through September 5 and will begin showcasing its “30 in 30” art exhibit on September 12.