Uplifting Ely's Artistic Community: The Creative Spirit of the North Award

This year, the Northern Lakes Arts Association is making significant strides to uplift and celebrate the talented artists of our community. As part of this effort, we’re excited to introduce the Creative Spirit of the North Award. This award not only honors the artistic contributions of local creatives but also provides them with space, resources, and support to deepen their craft. We are thrilled to announce that applications for this award are now OPEN!

Local artists are the heartbeat of the communities we serve. Their dedication to interpreting the world around them adds depth, vibrancy, and joy to our everyday lives. As Ely continues to grow as a destination for arts and culture, it’s inspiring to witness the flourishing careers of these talented individuals. In fact, we’ve seen a surge in new galleries this year, with The Meadows already open and Three Jewels Pottery set to launch soon. Ely is no longer just a place to explore the natural world but a hub where the breathtaking landscape becomes intertwined with artistic expression.

At NLAA, we are committed to fostering an environment where local and regional artists can thrive and be recognized for their invaluable contributions. Living in a remote region often means fewer opportunities for artists to receive the attention they deserve. We hope that through the Creative Spirit of the North Award, we can change that.

Supporting local art in Ely, MN, plays a crucial role in driving the local economy, fostering community pride, and encouraging creative expression. By investing in our local artists, performances, and cultural initiatives, the community not only stimulates tourism and supports small businesses but also helps create jobs and enriches the cultural fabric of our region. For instance, NLAA alone contributes over half a million dollars annually to the local economy through events like Broadway in the Boundary Waters, which draw hundreds of attendees who patronize local restaurants, hotels, and shops.

Art serves as a unifying force, celebrating Ely’s rich history and unique identity. Initiatives like the Ely Mural Projecthave brought the community together to honor local stories, fostering a deep sense of pride. Meanwhile, programs such as the Youth Art Fund Scholarship and Performing Arts Camps ensure that the next generation of artists has the tools and opportunities they need to flourish.

We believe that by creating opportunities like the Creative Spirit of the North Award, we are supporting artists who, in turn, will help bolster both the economy and the creative spirit of our region.

About the Creative Spirit of the North Award

The Creative Spirit of the North Award is a unique opportunity for visual artists in the Ely area to elevate their artistic journey and make a lasting impact on the local arts community. This prestigious award offers:

• A year-long studio residency

• A $500 stipend to support the creation of your final project

• The honor of designing next year’s artwork for NLAA’s merchandise

In addition, the award winner will inspire others through ArtisticELY’s Arts in Action Workshops, be featured on the Portageland Podcast, and showcase their final project at the NLAA Members Gala.

If you're an emerging or established visual artist within a 30-mile radius of Ely, passionate about contributing to the local arts community, and ready to take your art to the next level, we encourage you to apply.

The application deadline is November 4th. You can find the application link at the top and bottom of this post.