OWATONNA ARTS CENTER (OAC) – Owatonna, Minnesota
Many of the three million people who visit the Medford Mall and other surrounding attractions each year, also find their way to a hidden gem; the Owatonna Arts Center (OAC), tucked away in Owatonna, MN. This exquisite art center allows each visitor to expand their awareness of artistic appreciation and understanding. The OAC boasts exhibits, events and classes for everyone and excellent educational opportunities as well!
The OAC comes from humble beginnings as part of the former Minnesota State School Orphanage site. In 1975, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now named “West Hills”. The location is the administrative center for the City of Owatonna and many non-profit organizations, including the OAC. Adjacent to the OAC facility, is a museum dedicated to the history of the State School Orphanage. Exhibits tell the story of the children who took refuge there for many years.
Various permanent objects of the OAC range from paintings by Raymond Stuart to fine clothing previously owned by European Royalty! Currently on display until June 17, 2007, is the Guy de Maupassant Series by Adolf Dehn. He was a premier American Lithographer whose works span collections all over the world including the British Museum in London, England, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The current display contains twenty original lithographs by Dehn, conveying a marvelous story of romance and corruption. The OAC also boasts many items in its permanent collection, including ceramic and tile works, an Orient collection including watercolors on silk, as well as a diverse group of historically significant items and works by local and regional artists; from oil paintings by Raymond James (Ray) Stuart to more than one costume collection, landscapes from around the world and even a milk glass collection!
The OAC offers numerous art classes and events, for kids and adults alike. Classes include Japanese Raku, watercolor painting, drawing, pottery and metal sculpture, just to name a few! You can register for these classes by contacting Owatonna Community Education by telephone at (507) 444-7900. They have a classes for everyone!
Events at the OAC span from band concerts and orchestra performances to luncheons. Additionally, the stylish Performing Arts Hall and the Sculpture Garden areas (a beautiful reprieve of peace and quiet, with grassy paths and sculptures throughout) are available for rental! This is a superb location, appropriate for any occasion. Please contact the OAC at (507) 451-0533 to discuss your plans or feel free to come see us in person! The OAC is located just east of Interstate 35, between Bridge Street and Hoffman Drive at 435 Garden View Lane, Owatonna, MN. It is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, from 1:00pm – 5:00pm and is closed on Mondays. Browsing the exhibits is always free for the public! Membership is available and the OAC welcomes contributors. All memberships and donations are tax deductible. Also, feel free to contact them via phone at (507) 451-0533 or via email at info@OwatonnaArtsCenter.org. They look forward to seeing you soon!
Location: 501 Dunnell Dr, Owatonna, MN 55060
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Does Owatonna have a costume rental store. If not where is the nearest store?
I contacted the Art Center and they said they get their costumes from Norcostco in Minneapolis. Here is the contact information for you:
Retail, Make-up & Costume Rentals
815 Hwy 169 North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Phone:763-546-9644
Fax:763-546-9684
E-mail:MakeupMN@norcostco.com
Hours:
M,T,W,F 9:30 to 6:00
Th 9:30 to 8:00
Sat 9:00 to 5:00
Sun Closed
Thank you for contacting http://www.minnesotabeautiful.com with your inquiry. We are pleased we could assist you.
The Editor