PAC Events and Programs
Filter By: Fendig Gallery Shows PAC Programs Get Together Thursdays All
(All times are Central Time unless otherwise stated. Event date and time subject to change. Please check back for updates to our calendar.)
If any accessibility requirements need to be addressed, please reach out to the Prairie Arts Council one week before the event so accommodations can be met, including accommodations for the blind, deaf, and mobility impaired. You can leave a message with the office at 219-866-5278 or contact us by email.
Annual PAC Member Show
The continued purpose of the Member Show is to give PAC artists of all skill levels and media, an annual opportunity to exhibit their original art in the Lilian Fendig Gallery where PAC presents exhibitions and programs year round. We endeavor to create a diverse and dynamic show.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 12pm - 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
RECEPTION AND AWARD CEREMONY:
Sunday June 2nd, 2:00PM-3:30PM
Get Together Thursdays: A 1926 Trip to California
In April, Randy Kooy will be reading excerpts from his grandmother’s journal covering the family’s travels cross country to California. Please join us for an interesting look into life in America in the 1920’s.
To meet downstairs in the Carnegie Building.
Mental Health Awareness VOH Show
An exhibit presenting the artwork of clients and Valley Oaks Health. The Exhibit will be open for the month of May in the Lilian Fendig Gallery alongside the Annual Prairie Arts Council Member Show.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 12pm - 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
RCHS Student Art Show
Rensselaer Central High School is hosting its annual Art Show, sponsored by the art department and teacher, Mrs. Kelley Spurgeon! Come support all of our art students and our featured seniors by coming to see their amazing art throughout their years! Displays will be set up throughout the halls of RCHS. Featured artists will be selling some of their artwork.
Art show is open to the public. Please join us!
Friday, May 3th, 7pm - 9pm & Saturday, May 4th, 2pm - 4pm
“Honoring Hispanic Heritage” Exhibition
This exhibition will feature art, artifacts, and objects that exemplify and showcase Hispanic heritage.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 12pm - 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
ARTCAMP 2024
Monday, July 15th – Friday, July 19th
We will be reaching out to potential Teachers in February. Volunteers always wanted! Sign-up to be a volunteer to help with set-up and sign-in. Email us at Volunteers@PrairieArtsCouncil.org.
Class sign-up will be open from April through the end of June.
Thank You to Our ARTCAMP Sponsors, REMC & The Jasper Newton Foundation.
Art in the Alley 2024
Summer is upon us! This year, Prairie Arts Council would like to host a relaxing one day event celebrating the beauty and diversity of our downtown! This event is expected to be hosted at Filson Park in Rensselaer! (This may change due to construction downtown)
Previous year Attractions included: A guided REN ART WLK Mural Tour. Art Battle! Mural artists compete to win prizes and wow our senses. Games! Prizes! Crafts! Tie-Dye! Live Local Music, all day! Art Fair & Market featuring local artists & artisans. Local Food Trucks.
Bonnie Zimmer Retrospective
For over 50 years, Bonnie has been creating fiber based vessels, sculptures, and more recently, installations to explore materials, techniques, forms, and ideas. She will present a comprehensive overview of the range work she has created across her career, using natural and found materials and fiber techniques to explore ideas.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 12pm - 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
Reception:
Friday, August 16, 6:30-8:00 PM CST.
Rock the Arts 2024
Time to Rock the Arts with Carpenter Creek Cellars of Remington, Indiana. Held at the winery on 11144 Jordan Road. Adults are invited to enjoy an afternoon of local wine, food, and live music at Carpenter Creek Cellars from 1:00-7:00pm CST.
JCAL Annual Member Show
The annual Jasper County Art League member show, featuring many talented artists from around Jasper County.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays: 12pm - 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
Reception:
Friday, October 4th 6:30-8:00PM. Refreshments will be provided.
Holiday Show & Sale 2024
The holiday season is almost here. Join the Prairie Arts Council and Rensselaer’s Holiday Stroll to “Shop Local” and purchase original fine arts, fine crafts, and artisan foods created by local artisans.
Sale Hours:
Thursday, Nov. 7, 4:00 PM to 7:00PM
Friday Nov. 8, 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday Nov. 9, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Don’t Miss This 3 Day Event!
Celebrating Photography 2024
Prairie Arts Council invites individuals of all ages to exhibit up to three photographs for an exhibition celebrating the medium of photography. Anyone from the region is welcome to enter their work. We welcome students and professional photographers alike. A Jury will select the best photographs for Merit Awards and Best in Show and the photographer’s will be awarded cash prizes.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesday 12pm – 4pm
Thursday 2pm – 6pm
Reception:
Friday November 22nd, 6:30 to 8:00 PM, awards at 7:00PM
Macrame Workshop - North Judson
Join fiber Artist Kristi Yapp at Junker Pat and Me for Beginner Macreme. You will learn basic macrame techniques and stitches while making a beautiful, and useful hanging plant holder.
$40 - All materials are included (except the plant). Age 12 - Adult.
Macrame Workshop - Demotte
Join fiber Artist Kristi Yapp at Cup of Joy in Demotte for Beginner Macreme. You will learn basic macrame techniques and stitches while making a beautiful, and useful hanging plant holder.
$40 - All materials are included (except the plant). Age 12 - Adult.
31st REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Middle School
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region. Middle school artists also receive a ribbon, with one artist from each school being selected for the Best of School Award. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Gallery Openings:
Tuesdays, Noon to 4:00 PM. March 19, 26, & April 2
Thursdays, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. March 14, 21,28, & April 4
Saturdays, Noon to 2:00 PM. March 16, 23, 30, & April 6
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church, 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer. Sunday, April 7th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Pysanka Workshop (Ukrainian Easter Eggs)
Sunday, March 10 from 1:00-4:00PM
Taught by Gail Woolever at her Heart to Hand Studio in Wheatfield. Cost of this fun experience is $15. All supplies will be provided. This workshop is limited to 20 participants and you must be at least 12 years old.
To reserve your space contact Gail at 219-819-0366 or gwwoolever@gmail.com.
Get Together Thursdays: Digital Discover
Bill Oates will lead the group covering family research techniques from traditional research methods through 21st century short cuts. He will share his recent research and show several websites that might help in finding ancestral documents, historical data and other fun locations.
To meet downstairs in the Carnegie Building.
31st REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: High School
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region. The High school show is a juried show with Honorable Mention and Awards of Excellence given to select pieces chosen by a professional juror. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesdays, Noon to 4:00 PM. February 27 & March 5
Thursdays, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. February 22, 29, & March 7
Saturdays, Noon to 2:00 PM. February 24, March 2, & 9
Closing Reception:
Lilian Fendig Gallery, 301 N Van Rensselaer St. Rensselaer. Sunday, March 10th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
31st REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Upper Elementary School, 3-5 Grade
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region. The Elementary artists are each presented with a ribbon for being selected to participate. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Gallery Openings:
Tuesdays, Noon to 4:00 PM. February 6 & 13
Thursdays, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. February 1, 8, & 15
Saturdays, Noon to 2:00 PM. February 3, 10, & 17
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church, 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer. Sunday, Feb 18th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
31st REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Primary School, K-2nd
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region. The Elementary artists are each presented with a ribbon for being selected to participate. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Gallery Openings:
Tuesdays, Noon to 4:00 PM. January 16 & 23.
Thursdays, 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. January 11, 18, & 25.
Saturdays, Noon to 2:00 PM. January 13, 20, & 27.
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church, 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer. Sunday, Jan 28th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Celebrating Photography 2023
“Celebrating Photography” is an annual juried show for local photographers. An open reception and award ceremony was held Friday Dec. 1, 6:30 to 8:00 PM, awards at 7:00PM.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesday 12pm – 4pm
Thursday 2pm – 6pm
Reception: Friday, Dec 1, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
2023 Holiday Art Show & Sale
Shop local to do your holiday gift shopping at Prairie Arts Council’s annual Holiday Art Show & Sale. PAC members enjoy 10% off all purchases.
Shop Hours:
Thursday, Nov. 9, 4:00 PM to 7:00PM
Friday Nov. 10, 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday Nov. 11, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Don’t miss this 3 day event!
"Fendig Inspired" JCAL member show
The annual Jasper County Art League member show, featuring many talented artists from around Jasper County. This year we will feature works inspired by Lilian Fendig, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Prairie Arts Council.
A reception will be held on Friday, October 6th.
Rock the Arts 2023
The Prairie Arts Council Presents, ROCK THE ARTS 2023 with Carpenter Creek Cellars of Remington, Indiana. Adults are invited to enjoy an afternoon of local wine, food, and live music at Carpenter Creek Cellars
1:00-7:00pm CST
Newton County's Historic Gem: The Domestic Arts Building
Leigh is premiering her documentary film Newton County’s Hidden Gem: The Domestic Arts Building is set to premiere the evening of Saturday, August 26th, 2023 at the Newton County Government Center at 7pm.
Lilian Fendig Collected
A special 30th anniversary exhibition featuring the art of our gallery’s namesake, Lilian Fendig. The art on exhibition has been loaned by her many generous patrons and collectors including numerous works from the Prairie Arts Council Permanent Collection and the extensive collection of the Helen & Bob Lewis Estate. A reception will be held on Sunday August 13 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM.
Art in the Alley
Prairie Arts Council invites the public to attend a open day of arts and relaxation for all ages to celebrate our downtown. Planned events include:
Art Fair & Market of local artists & vendors featuring fine arts, crafts, artisan foods, produce, and vintage collectibles
Family Games, Crafts, and Prizes!
Tours of REN ART WALK murals
Live performances by local musicians
BBQ and Lemon Shake-ups
Artcamp 2023
Each year the Prairie Arts Council Artcamp program offers a range of summer workshops. This year we have 30 classes to share with the community.
Metamorphosis, Art Auction & Fundraiser
The Child Advocacy Team in Rensselaer is hosting a fundraiser, Metamorphosis, all proceeds from the event will be put towards our team's mission - purchasing education material, attending national conferences, and purchasing necessary equipment that we need for forensic interviewClick here to buy ticketsing.
The fundraiser is on June 23rd at Ember's Venue in Rensselaer from 6 to 10 PM. Entry includes an art auction auction, beverages, appetizers, and DJ.
Click here to buy tickets
Gods & Monsters - a Haus of Preston Fashion Event
A fashion show at Milroy Park by PAC member Preston Buck.
Tickets available online for $20. Includes reception at Embers Venue after the event.
Abbie Timmins Parmele 75: Celebrating Her Artistic Journey
Join artist Abbie Parmele as she celebrates 75 years of making art. This retrospective exhibition features Abbie's drawings and paintings, as well as her ornaments and fiber purses. Artists and art appreciators alike will be inspired by Abbies lifelong journey creating meaningful work.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesday 12pm – 4pm
Thursday 2pm – 6pm
Opening Reception:
Thursday June 8th, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Conversation with the Artist:
Sunday June 25th, 2:00 - 4:00 PM, 3:00 PM Presentation.
Music on the Lawn
A free concert each month at Carpenter Creek Cellars. Bring a Lawn chair and enjoy an afternoon of iced wine and delicious food.
June 3, 2pm. Island Day
July 8, 2pm. Creek Fest
August 5, 2pm. “Roan”-Devous
September 16, 1pm. Rock the Arts
RCHS Student Art Show (Day 2)
Rensselaer Central High School is hosting its annual Art Show, sponsored by the art department and teacher, Mrs. Kelley Spurgeon! Come support all of our art students and our featured seniors by coming to see their amazing art throughout their years! Displays will be set up throughout the halls of RCHS. Featured artists will be selling some of their artwork.
RCHS Student Art Show (Day 1)
Rensselaer Central High School is hosting its annual Art Show, sponsored by the art department and teacher, Mrs. Kelley Spurgeon! Come support all of our art students and our featured seniors by coming to see their amazing art throughout their years! Displays will be set up throughout the halls of RCHS. Featured artists will be selling some of their artwork.
6th Annual PAC Member Show
The continued purpose of this show is to give PAC artists or all skill levels and media, an annual opportunity to exhibit their original art in the Lilian Fendig Gallery. The theme will be open with an emphasis on exhibiting your very best original art created in the past three years.
Open April 27th - June 1st
Tuesdays: Noon- 4pm
Thursdays: 2pm - 6pm
Opening Reception: April 28th, 6:30pm - 8:30pm
30TH REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Middle School
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region.
Middle school artists also receive a ribbon, with one artist from each school being selected for the Best of School Award. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Noon to 4:00 PM on Tuesdays. Mar 21st, 28th, Apr 4th, and 11th
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM Thursdays. Mar 16th, 23rd, 30th, Apr 6th and 13th
Noon to 2:00 PM on Saturdays. Mar 18th, 25th, Apr 1st, 8th, and 15th
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church , 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer.
Sunday, Apr 16th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Awards will be given promptly at 1:30 PM.
30TH REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: High School
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region.
The High school show is a juried show with Honorable Mention and Awards of Excellence given to select pieces chosen by a professional juror. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Noon to 4:00 PM on Tuesdays. Feb 28th and Mar 7nd
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM Thursdays. Feb 23rd, Mar 2nd and 9th
Noon to 2:00 PM on Saturdays. Feb 25th, Mar 4th, and 11th
Closing Reception:
the Lilian Fendig Gallery
Sunday, Mar 12th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Awards will be given promptly at 2:00 PM.
30TH REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Elementary School, 3-5 grade
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region.
We will be incorporating a virtual reception video to view each show. The Elementary artists are each presented with a ribbon for being selected to participate. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Noon to 4:00 PM on Tuesdays. Feb 2nd, 9th, and 16th
2:00 PM to 6:00 PM Thursdays. Feb 7th and 14th
Noon to 2:00 PM on Saturdays. Feb 4th, 11th, and 18th
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church , 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer.
Sunday, Feb 19th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Awards will be given promptly at 1:30 PM.
30TH REGIONAL SCHOOL ART SHOW: Elementary School, K-2nd
The School Shows offer teachers and our community the ability to showcase student artists from schools in the Newton and Jasper County region.
The Elementary artists are each presented with a ribbon for being selected to participate. This is all provided and made possible by a grant from the Jasper Newton Foundation.
Noon to 4:00 PM on Tuesdays. Jan 17th and 24th
2:00 PM - 6:00 PM Thursdays. Jan 12th, 19th, and 26th
Noon to 2:00 PM on Saturdays. Jan 14th, 21st, and 28th
Closing Reception:
First Presbyterian Church , 220 North Cullen St. Rensselaer. Sunday, Jan 29th. 1:30 - 3:00 PM CST
Awards will be given promptly at 1:30 PM.
Celebrating Photography 2022
“Celebrating Photography” is an annual juried show for local photographers. An open reception and award ceremony will be held, - stay tuned for further details.
Gallery Hours:
Tuesday 12pm – 4pm
Thursday 2pm – 6pm
Reception: Friday, Dec 2, 6:30 - 8:00 PM
30th Anniversary Calendar Sale
The Prairie Arts Council has created a Calendar featuring Lilian's paintings as a fundraiser for our upcoming 30th Anniversary. They are on sale now at our Lilian Fendig Gallery. 13 of her original paintings are recreated in the calender.
$15 each, available while supplies last!
Intuitive Art for sale
Rensselaer Holiday Shop and Stroll
Intuitive Art for sale
Visit the Upstairs Gallery, 112 W Washington St., Rensselaer
Sale:
Thursday, November 10, 4pm-7pm
Friday, November 11, 9am-6pm
Saturday, November 12, 9am-4pm