MAY 31 - JUNE 26 IN GALLERY I

WILLISTON AREA VISUAL ARTISTS

HODGEPODGE

Daphne Clark

Kathleen Sinclair

The Williston Area Visual Artists began as a seasonal group of local painters and has since evolved into a year-round organization, supporting artists of all skill levels and ages.

Initially started by a local artist who invited fellow creatives to join a summer painting group, WAVA now welcomes artists from diverse backgrounds, including painting, stained glass, paper crafts and more.    "Originally, we gathered as painters during the summer," member Kathy Sinclair shared. "But we wanted to explore new techniques and spend more time creating, so the group expanded to meet year-round."   The group offers free art classes exclusively for members, covering everything from painting to stained glass. Beyond classes, WAVA hosts creative challenges, projects and educational nights, offering members a chance to grow and engage with the local arts community.    

 A key philosophy within WAVA is the importance of practice. "One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that if you don't practice, you won't improve," shared Kathy, a long-time member. "We’re here to help those just starting, even if they can only draw simple things. It's all about practice, practice, practice."  

WAVA's mission is to inspire and encourage artists, enhancing the enthusiasm of the local art community. Quarterly challenges encourage members to try new mediums and step outside their comfort zones, leading to fresh learning experiences. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, all are welcome.

The group's schedule is structured with regular activities: First Wednesday of the month at 6pm, WAVA hosts a class open to members and potential members for a donation. Third Wednesday of the month at 7pm is the monthly business meeting. Fourth Wednesday of the month at 6pm is studio night, where artists work on their own projects. All meetings are held at the James Memorial Art Center, with additional workshops sponsored throughout the year. To learn more and see WAVA’s work, visit facebook.com/willistonareavisualartists

Be sure to join us on Friday, June 5, from 6-7:30 PM for an artist reception!

MAY 31 - JUNE 26 IN GALLERY II

BLAKE WATKINS

HTK HATS

Founded by Blake Watkins, HTK Hats was built for people who live life on their own terms. The brand's name, Hard to Kill, is more than words; it's a mindset. Each hat is designed with an edge. Raw, wild, and unapologetic.

HTK isn't chasing trends. It's about rebellion, resilience, and making a statement without saying a word. These hats aren't just accessories, they're armor for those who refuse to back down. Hard To Kill, Easy To Wear.

Be sure to join us for an artist reception on Friday, June 5, from 6-7:30 PM.

Blake will also be our featured artist during the Art & Wine Walk on June 18th, and have a vendor booth at Art Fest on June 20th!

MAY 4 - 29 IN GALLERY I

DEANA NOVAK

Deana Novak is a self-taught North Dakota artist working in many mediums. Deana’s lifelong love of art was fostered by a creative family environment and plenty of amazing public school art instructors. She enjoys collage, gouache, watercolor, quilting, and textile arts. Deana currently resides in her hometown of Williston with her husband Aaron, daughter Avinell, and dog Thora. Since 2017 her artwork has been shown in galleries across North Dakota, Montana, South Dakota, and Minnesota.

Currently Deana’s focus is collage art using images sourced from vintage periodicals. Deana is currently exploring more themes in her collage work and pulling images from vintage encyclopedias, travel magazines, National Geographics, and random periodicals from 1940’s through the 1980’s. She enjoys creating surreal situations using well-chosen images in hopes of evoking emotion and allowing the viewer to formulate a story to go along with the artwork. The hunt for images in these snap shots of years gone by drives her to continue to create and search for the perfect image to convey a whole new idea.

Be sure to join us on Thursday, May 21st, from 6-7:30 PM for an artist reception!

MAY 4 - 21 IN GALLERY II

WHS ART STUDENTS

Be sure to join us for an artist reception on Thursday, May 21, from 6-7:30 PM.