Celebrate the transformative power of the arts with NLAA’s Creative Spirit of the North Award! This prestigious honor recognizes an individual who exemplifies creativity, dedication, and a passion for enriching the cultural landscape of Ely and the surrounding region. From fostering artistic innovation to building community through the arts, the recipient embodies the spirit that makes our Northwoods vibrant and inspiring. The inaugural awardee will be announced in December 2024, highlighting their exceptional contributions to our artistic community. Stay tuned as we honor the heart and soul of creativity in the North!
Creative Spirit of the North
Meet Rachael Pace:
Our 2025 Creative Spirit of the North
“The wilderness taught me resilience—and gave me a story to tell,” says artist Rachael Pace. From desert expeditions to the shores of the Boundary Waters, her journey is a testament to creativity’s power to connect us to nature—and each other. Named this year’s Creative Spirit of the North, Pace’s work and story are nothing short of inspiring.
Read more about how wilderness shaped her art—and how she’s shaping her community.
Uplift Emerging Artists and Strengthen the Arts in Our Region
We invite you to invest the Creative Spirit of the North award, a prestigious initiative that celebrates and empowers the rising visual artists of our community. This award is more than just recognition; it’s a transformative opportunity that provides an emerging artist with a year-long studio residency, financial support, and the chance to share their work with a wider audience. It’s an investment in the future of our local arts scene and the cultural vibrancy of Ely, MN. Your donation plays a crucial role in making this vision a reality.
Join us in this meaningful journey. By donating, you are helping to uplift talented artists, enrich our community, and create a lasting impact on the arts in our region. Click the button below to contribute and be part of this transformative experience. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of artists and the cultural landscape we all cherish.
Thank you for your unwavering support!