Celebrating 2025: Local Arts Council Highlights Community Creativity

As the year draws to a close, Tania Blanich, executive director of the Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo local arts council, reflects on a vibrant 2025 filled with artistic expression. Under her leadership, The Arts Partnership has played a pivotal role in fostering community through the arts, enhancing the cultural fabric of the region.

Blanich emphasizes the importance of local art groups and artists in creating a strong community. “Our organization raises funds, promotes, and advocates for a robust artistic community, which is vital to any healthy city,” she states. This year saw a plethora of artistic events across various disciplines, showcasing the talents of both local and internationally recognized artists.

A Showcase of Musical Excellence

One of the standout events this year was the jazz concert “Portrait in Seven Shades,” performed by renowned musician Ted Nash. This extraordinary performance, inspired by seven master painters including Picasso and Monet, captivated audiences in November. Artistic director Joey Pettit integrated visual artistry into the concert, with proceeds benefiting the Kicks’ educational initiatives. Blanich described the concert as “simply stunning and fun,” noting the clarity with which the smaller ensemble performed. The event also highlighted the talents of local symphony musicians, including principal flutist Debora Harris and concertmaster Sonja Bosca-Harasim.

The current exhibition, “Women Artists: Four Centuries of Creativity,” further underscores the region’s commitment to the arts. This exhibit builds on a traveling showcase that celebrates the contributions of women artists over four centuries. The inclusion of works by regional artists alongside pieces from world-renowned creators exemplifies the rich artistic landscape of the area. Blanich commended the curatorial team, led by Danielle Gravon, for their efforts in making the exhibit a success.

Engaging the Community Through Arts

The arts council has been instrumental in promoting community engagement through various programs and events. Each summer, local youth theater groups present performances that not only entertain but also teach valuable lessons about teamwork and collaboration. These productions consistently deliver strong performances, captivating sets, and uplifting music, demonstrating the power of the arts in fostering community spirit.

October brings the highly anticipated visual arts celebration, where thousands gather to appreciate the local art scene. Blanich enjoys the opportunity to converse with artists in their studios, often leading to moments of discovery that inspire lasting joy. Additionally, Theatre B’s “Fridays in September” series featured an impressive array of guest performances, including a marimba concert by Dr. Roberto Palomeque. The performance showcased the versatility of percussion, proving that drums can produce an unexpected musicality.

Another highlight was the Community Supported Art (CSA) program, which this year featured the talented Josh Kohl, artistic director of FM Opera. His performance included songs made famous during the Golden Age of Hollywood, appealing to fans of classic American musicals.

Blanich acknowledges that while she has highlighted several key events, the local arts scene is teeming with opportunities for engagement. “There are fantastic art experiences waiting for you pretty much every day of the week, all year long,” she notes.

As Blanich looks forward to 2026, she encourages everyone to immerse themselves in the artistic offerings of their community. Participating in the arts not only enriches individual lives but also fosters connections among people. “Experiencing art fills my soul, makes me happy, makes me think, makes me solemn, makes me feel,” she reflects.

This article is part of a content partnership with The Arts Partnership, a nonprofit dedicated to cultivating the arts in Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo. For more information, visit theartspartnership.net.