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City of Superior · Douglas County · meeting of Jul 30, 2026 · Agendas
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Public Arts Commission Meeting Page 1 of 2
AGENDA
PUBLIC ART COMMISSION
Thursday, July 30, 2026 – 10:00 a.m.
Superior Government Center
1316 N 14th Street in Room 204
Microsoft Teams Virtual Link
Meeting ID: 263 787 061 027 694
Passcode: 8bB9QG6x
MEMBERS: Lindsey Graskey, Heidi Blunt, Carolyn Nelson-Kavajecz, Paul Robinson
1 ROLL CALL
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
3 OLD BUSINESS
4 NEW BUSINESS
4.1 Grant Application for Award Consideration:
Nordic Handcraft Workshop Series submitted by DCHS
Requesting $3,500
Vision Superior submitted by Jonathan Asp
Requesting $10,000
St. Louis River Rendezvous submitted by SLRR – Patrick Rohde
Requesting $6,000
Strike for Dickie! A Musical submitted by Kathy Laakso, Time Arc Theater
Requesting $9,660
Victorian Séance Experience submitted by Jess McCullough
Requesting $2,500
Regional Creative Industries Summit Scholarship submitted by Superior Council
for the Arts
Requesting $5,965
4.2 Downtown garbage can art proposal from Parks Dept.
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Previous Grant Recipient Updates
Public Arts Commission Meeting Page 2 of 2
5.2 Financials
6 ADJOURNMENT
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the members of the Common Council may be present
at the meeting, and although this may constitute a quorum of the Common Council, the
Council will not take any action at this meeting.
*********************************************************************************************************************
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, if you are in need of an accommodation to participate
in the public meeting process, please call (715) 395-7200 by 4:30 p.m. on the day prior to the scheduled meeting
date (OR dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Service). The City will attempt to accommodate any request
depending on the amount of notice received.
*********************************************************************************************************************
In compliance with Wisconsin Open Meetings Law, this agenda was posted on 07/28/2026 at the following locations: Superior Government
Center, Douglas County Courthouse, and online at https://www.ci.superior.wi.us/agendacenter. It was also emailed to the Superior Telegram.
Public Art Commission – 4/28/26 Mtg Page 1 of 2
Public Art Commission Minutes
TUESDAY, April 28th, 2026 Meeting
The meeting was called to order by Chair Lindsey Graskey at 10:03AM on April 28th, 2026 in
Government Center Room 204.
1 ROLL CALL
PRESENT:, Lindsey Graskey, Heidi Blunt, Carolyn Nelson-Kavajecz
VIRTUAL: Paul Robinson
ABSENT: Mollie Gilbertson
CITY STAFF PRESENT: Rebecca Baker
OTHERS PRESENT:
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Meeting held April 2nd 2026
MOTION Blunt, Second by Graskey to approve. Minutes filed.
MOTION Graskey to move 5.2 before Old Business. Second by Blunt.
5.2 Financials
Update from COS Scherf. No action taken
3 OLD BUSINESS
3.1. Grant Application for Award Consideration
3.1.1 Siggy’s Musical Garden Incorporated (Average Review Score 4.14)
Requesting $10,000
MOTION Blunt, second Robinson to approve $3,000 award for Siggy to match the $7000 award they are
receiving from City of Superior Recreation Grant to meet their $10,000 need. Motion passes.
3.1.2 Superior Council for the Arts (Average Review Score 2.62)
Requesting $5,965
Discussion held. No action taken.
3.1.3 The Fox & Beggar Theater (Average Review Score 3.22)
Requesting $6,612
Discussion held. No action taken.
3.1.4 Make Music Day – Traxx Nelson-Kavajecz (Average Review Score 3.85)
Requesting $9,890
MOTION Blunt to approve full ask. Second by Robinson. Nelson-Kavajecz abstains. Motion passes.
Public Art Commission – 4/28/26 Mtg Page 2 of 2
3.1.5 SPAG Grant Language Update
MOTION Graskey, second Nelson-Kavajecz to approve edits. Motion passes.
4 NEW BUSINESS
4.1 Plaza Mural Development Agreement
Update from COS Baker. No action taken.
4.2 Downtown Trash Can Art.
Update from COS Baker. No action taken.
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Previous Grant Recipient Updates
Update from Baker. No action taken.
No action taken.
6 ADJOURNMENT
MOTION to adjourn at 11:28AM.
Next meeting will be confirmed via Doodle Poll.
Respectfully submitted by Rebecca Baker.
Superior Public Arts Grant Program (SPAG)
Culture, Events, and Public Art Commission of the City of Superior
The Superior Public Art Grant Program SPAG provides small grant funding to artists/artist teams, creatives, makers, performers,
arts organizations, and other cultural drivers, to enhance and increase arts and culture and public art opportunities within the City
of Superior. Funds are dedicated to support presentations, performances, workshops, research, and/or creation of artwork within
the City of Superior. The program strives to encourage artistic engagement, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize Superior
through the arts.
Applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant between $1,000 - $10,000. This grant may be used to fully fund a project. No
match is required. Funds cannot be used to retroactively fund completed projects or portions of projects but can be used for
ongoing projects.
Professional artists of all disciplines, arts organizations and other cultural drivers are encouraged to apply.
Important Attachments:
Applicants should read the Program Description for more information and review criteria to build a strong proposal.
Download the Project Budget Worksheet for completing the submission.
Artist Name
Douglas County Historical Society
Groups of artists, or artist collectives are eligible to apply. Each artist within the group must consent to be part of the application; however, only one
person/organization must act as the lead applicant.
Artist Email
dchs@douglashistory.org
Artist Phone Number
715 3928449
Artist Address
1101 John Ave, Superior, WI 548801640
Project Name
Nordic Handcraft Workshop Series
Requested Amount
$3,500.00
The minimum amount to request is $1,000. Maximum request is $10,000. The amount requested should match the total expenses listed in the Project
Budget below.
Project Description
At the Douglas County Historical Society, our mission is to preserve the history of Douglas County and share our stories. Our home,
the historic 1925 Vasa Temple Swedish Cultural Institute ), is a living artifact of Nordic heritage. This project grows directly from
our commitment to honor local heritage while engaging our community in hands‑on, creative cultural experiences. We are
developing a workshop series that highlights five Nordic‑inspired artists and tradition bearers: Alison Aune, Kirsten Aune, Lori
Kangas‑Olson, Traveling Tomten, and Becky Utect. Each artist specializes in a traditional Nordic handcraft such as felting, whittling,
textile design, or basket‑weaving, and all have extensive experience teaching at organizations including the American Swedish
Institute and the Duluth Folk School. Through this series, participants will learn directly from these artists in an immersive, tactile
environment. This project benefits the artists by providing a platform to share their expertise. Community members will benefit
from learning creative skills and strengthening cultural continuity. Workshops will take place at the Vasa Temple, inviting the public
into a historic space that deepens the cultural context of each craft. Our intended audience includes local residents,
intergenerational learners, and anyone interested in Nordic culture, folk arts, or hands‑on creative expression. This project reflects
our artistic vision of connecting heritage, craft, and community. By bringing together skilled artists, a historic cultural setting, and
an engaged public, we aim to preserve Nordic traditions in a way that is vibrant, participatory, and relevant today.
Describe the project and how it connects to your artistic practice. As applicable, include details about your artistic practice and vision, project
location(s), intended audience, collaborators, partners, and contractors.
Project Timeline
Our first workshop will begin in September, 2026. We will host the next workshops approximately every 2 months following,
wrapping up in the summer of 2027.
Describe a timeline for completing the proposed project. Consider including major project milestones that will help you measure progress.
Project Budget
budget-publicartgrantsprogram-
1780599459651.xlsx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Fill out, save, and upload the budget worksheet linked at top of this form. Please use file types: .xls, .xlsx, or PDF. A detailed Project Budget is an
important piece of evidence for the feasibility of the project.
Project Outcomes
This project will build our relationships with the participating artists and create a foundation for future collaborations. Community
members will learn creative and culturally significant Nordic craft skills, leaving each workshop with a handmade item that
demonstrates the transfer of artistic knowledge. The artists involved are experienced instructors who have confirmed their
participation and provided their professional rates, ensuring the project is accurately budgeted and execution is feasible.
Deliverable outcomes include a full series of artist‑led workshops, craft pieces designed by experts and created by individuals, and
comprehensive documentation. We will record photos, attendance, and feedback to submit in the final report. These outcomes will
support future workshop programming and provide an engaging way to connect the community with historic craft traditions.
Describe tangible outcomes of the project. Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: : 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility,
and 3 community impact and availability. See project outline for more information.
Project Budget Explanation
We are requesting funds to cover artist instruction fees, workshop materials, and two small space‑improvement items: tabletop
lighting and an overhead projector. A small participant fee will help manage attendance and support our mission. Any costs beyond
the grant amount will be covered through participant fees and our general operating funds.
If the project budget exceeds $10,000 please describe the plan for paying for the expenses beyond the maximum award amount. If there are aspects
of the project budget that require explanation, describe them above. Additional budget documents can be u
Project Proposal Supporting Documentation
artist-profiles-1780599493119.docx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Submit additional project proposal attachments (if any) here to include with this submission.
IMPORTANT In order to be considered for funding, an application needs to include evidence to support the grant criteria. The Arts
Resume field are required; the other fields are strongly recommended but may not be applicable to your submission. An application
does not need to use every field below in order to be considered complete.
It is recommended that applicants read the Review Criteria section of the Program Description to assist in building a strong
proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility, and 3 community impact
and availability. Evidence to support the criteria will come from the narrative responses and submitted supplemental materials.
Arts Resume or Curriculum Vitae
artist-profiles-1780599511547.docx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Include information that reflects career advancements, professional accomplishments, and training, up to 4 pages.
Letter(s) of Support
If applicable, upload letter(s) of support from partners, collaborators, mentors, etc.
Work Sample #1
hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-of-the-
lake-community-art…
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Depending on artistic discipline, work samples might include images, PDFs, video or audio clips, curricula, learning modules, press articles, or
marketing materials. Additional work sample upload boxes are available below.
Work Sample #2
intergenerational-nordic-handcraft-
workshop-felted-frog…
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Work Sample #3
wandering-basket-workshop-with-lori-
from-suku-mokki-178…
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01krekwwgmxa08rafs8qtemczv to view or download full files.
Artist Website
https://www.alisonaune.com/
Artist Social Media
https://www.sukumokki.com/
Online Portfolio Link
https://www.instagram.com/travelingtomten/
Additional URL
https://www.kirstenaunetextiles.com/
Additional URL
https://rebecca-utecht.square.site/
SUBMITED ON 6/4/26
Cash
Amount
Detail: (Type a description of the expense here. Example: Videographer.)
Detail: $450
Detail: $150
Detail: $300
Detail: $250
Detail: $300
Detail: $150
Detail: $300
Detail: $250
Detail: $300
Detail: $600
Detail: $150
Detail: Overhead projector $300
Detail:
Total expenses should match your request amount Total Expenses $3,500
Superior Public Art Grants Budget Worksheet
(Fill in only the lines that apply to your request and round to the nearest dollar.
You may add additonal lines in the budget if needed.)
Expenses may include artist or consultant fees, facility or equipment rental, materials,
supplies, services, software, etc. required to complete the project. Total
expenses should match the request amount.
Kirsten Aune instructor fee
Date:
Project Expenses
Applicant: Douglas County Historical Society
Traveling Tomten instructor fee
Traveling Tomten materials fee
Lori Kangas-Olson instructor fee
Lori Kangas-Olson materials fee
Table top battery lighting (15)
Kirsten Aune materials fee
Becky Utecht instructor fee
Becky Utecht materials fee
Alison Aune instructor fee
Alison Aune materials fee
Artist Profiles
Alison Aune
Bio:
Alison Aune is a professor of art education at the University of Minnesota Duluth. She received her
B.F.A. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1984, her M.A. from the University of Minnesota
in 1987, and a Ph.D. from Ohio University Athens in 2000. One of Alison’s research interests is the study
of Swedish dalmålningar from Dalarna, with its characteristic floral kurbits (fantastical gourd flowers)
and the decorative- figurative bonadsmåleri from the southern provinces of Småland and Halland into
contemporary paintings. Her reinterpretations of traditional Swedish folk paintings are done in honor of
her maternal ancestors who were immigrants to Wisconsin and Minnesota. Today, the
rebirth of Swedish folk painting is a way to preserve this living cultural art form.
Website/Social Media: https://www.alisonaune.com/
Past workshop example: https://swedishculturalsociety.org/nordic-event/hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-
of-the-lake-community-arts/
Workshop sample art:
Kirsten Aune
Bio:
Kirsten Aune (b. 1968) grew up in Amherst, Massachusetts, and attended the School of Visual Arts in
New York City where she received her BFA in 1992. She lived in New Mexico before coming to
Minnesota in 1994 where she maintains Kirsten Aune Textiles Studio. She has had exhibitions in
Minnesota, Illinois, Massachusetts, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Estonia. She has received
several awards including the Jerome Foundation Travel, Arrowhead Regional Arts Council Fellowship,
and Finlandia Foundation Grant. Her work is in the permanent collection at The Tweed Museum of Art,
the Municipal Arts Collective in Växjö, Sweden, the Unitarian Universalist Congregation Duluth, The
Duluth Children’s Museum, and in numerous private collections in Washington D.C, Massachusetts,
Minnesota, New York City, North Carolina, Austria, Paris, Finland, and Japan.
Kirsten creates original geometric and floral designs using stencils that she cuts by hand and then
arranges in dynamic visual compositions using bright blocks of color and bold designs. She also works
with silkscreen printing to create textile yardage of repeat patterns on a variety of cloth objects
including wall hangings, garments, toys, table linens, handbags, lampshades, coasters, shower curtains,
holiday stockings, ornaments, bracelets, hats, quilts, dolls, puppets, aprons, pillows, potholders, wallets,
purses, facemasks, and more. Her artistic style has been called “Modern Scandinavian.” She has traveled
to Scandinavia to research designs and to exhibit her work. Her connection to Danish, Swedish, and
Finnish design is rooted in her childhood, growing up in a home of Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian
furniture, and Marimekko wall hangings, that her parents collected when her mother worked in the first
Danish furniture store in Minneapolis in the 1950s. Her love of color and simple lines are present in
Scandinavian design and is reflected in some of her work.
Website/Social Media: https://www.kirstenaunetextiles.com/
Past workshop example: https://asimn.org/events-calendar/stenciled-bento-bag-workshop-with-
kirsten-aune/
Lori Kangas-Olson
Bio:
Lori Kangas-Olson is a fiber artist, teacher, and quiet disruptor based in northern Minnesota. She is 1/2
of the family duo of the cottage industry, Suku Mokki. Her work lives at the intersection of usefulness
and meaning—creating baskets, textiles, and objects meant to be carried, worn, and lived with.
She believes making is a form of remembering - how to work with your hands, how to move at a human
pace, how to create something that lasts.
In her classes, Lori teaches traditional weaving techniques with a modern, practical lens, guiding
students to build pieces that are not only beautiful, but deeply usable. Her hope is that every student
leaves with more than a basket...they leave with a renewed sense that they can make what they need.
Website/social media: https://www.sukumokki.com/
Past workshop example: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/wandering-basket-workshop
Traveling Tomten (Jen Newberg)
Bio:
As an elementary teacher and literacy specialist/coach for over 20 years, Jen combines a love of
teaching with a love of crafts in teaching needle felting classes for children and intergenerational groups.
Website/social media: https://www.instagram.com/travelingtomten/
Past workshop example: https://asimn.org/events-calendar/intergenerational-nordic-handcraft-
workshop-felted-frog-on-a-lily-pad-with-jen-newburg/
Becky Utecht
Bio:
Becky Utecht raises sheep and makes art in rural Ogilvie, MN. She is passionate about felting and has
studied with many renowned feltmakers. Her felt works have won awards and been included in fine art
shows, wool festivals, and publications. She enjoys teaching and sharing the magic of felting with others
in fast-paced, fun classes.
Website/social media: https://rebecca-utecht.square.site/
Past workshop example: https://asimn.org/events-calendar/nuno-felted-scarf-workshop-with-becky-
utecht/
Intergenerational Nordic Handcraft Workshop:
Felted Frog on a Lily Pad with Jen Newburg
Experience ASI / Events Calendar
Nordic Handcraft
Location: American
Swedish Institute
Instructor: Jen Newburg
Cost: $55 adult/child pair
($45 ASI member
adult/child pair) + $25
materials fee payable to
the instructor
Material Fee: $25
Sunday, July 19 | 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Make an amphibian friend using colorful wool! Felter
Jen will lead kids and their important adults through
shaping and decorating a frog and a lily pad using the
magical technique of needle felting. Participants can
create a pond scene that is perfect for the summer
months. Using a needle to poke colorful wool into
shapes is a fun and easy craft for all ages and this
project is especially suited for older participants, ages
9-17 alongside an adult.
Additional information:
Intergenerational program: This program is for one kid
and one adult to attend together, and each work on
their own projects. Please reach out if you wish to
confirm available space for additional children to
attend with a registered adult.
Skill level: Open to all skill levels.
Ages: This program is for children ages 9-17 and an
adult.
A $25 materials fee paid to the instructor in class covers
all the materials for one adult and one child.
Register
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6/4/26, 2:02 PM Intergenerational Nordic Handcraft Workshop: Felted Frog on a Lily Pad with Jen Newburg - American Swedish Institute
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Dye Like a Viking Workshop with Theresa
Hornstein
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Pedersen
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6/4/26, 2:02 PM Intergenerational Nordic Handcraft Workshop: Felted Frog on a Lily Pad with Jen Newburg - American Swedish Institute
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6/4/26, 2:02 PM Intergenerational Nordic Handcraft Workshop: Felted Frog on a Lily Pad with Jen Newburg - American Swedish Institute
https://asimn.org/events-calendar/intergenerational-nordic-handcraft-workshop-felted-frog-on-a-lily-pad-with-jen-newburg/ 3/4
(/)
Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments – Spirit of theLake Community Arts
A Nordic EventPart of the Series: Contemporary Creative Swedish Crafts - an SOLCA Class(https://swedishculturalsociety.org/event-series/contemporary-creative-swedish-crafts-an-solca-class/)
6/4/26, 2:01 PM Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments - Spirit of the Lake Community Arts - Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth
https://swedishculturalsociety.org/nordic-event/hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-of-the-lake-community-arts/ 1/4
(https://swedishculturalsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/nordic-event-2025-11-crafts.webp)
When:
December 14, 2025 (1:00 pm)
Where:
Spirit of the Lake Community Arts (SOLCA) (https://www.spiritofthelakearts.org/)
6/4/26, 2:01 PM Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments - Spirit of the Lake Community Arts - Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth
https://swedishculturalsociety.org/nordic-event/hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-of-the-lake-community-arts/ 2/4
5401 E Superior StreetDuluth, MN 55804
(https://www.spiritofthelakearts.org/)(https://www.spiritofthelakearts.org/)Directions (https://maps.app.goo.gl/MMuaHJ6d8ENDfJLg9)
Visit the Venue's Website (https://www.spiritofthelakearts.org/)
Join artist Alison Aune for monthly hands-on Swedish folk craft workshops in Duluth—exploring
tradition, history, and creativity while making your own inspired piece. This month “Hjärta Ornaments”
This Month’s Topic
“Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments”
Background Info
Spirit of the Lake Community Arts is excited to invite your members and friends to join artist Alison
Aune for Contemporary Creative Swedish Slöjd – a monthly, hands-on journey into traditional and
contemporary Swedish folk crafts, inspired by Alison’s study trips to Sweden.
Each session explores a unique craft tradition (its history, cultural significance, and modern
interpretations) while participants create their own inspired piece at our welcoming community space in
Duluth.
Sundays, 1:00–4:30 PM
Sliding Scale Pricing Options – all supplies and coffee included
For Adults & Teens
Schedule & Topics:
Oct 19: Southern Swedish Figurative Folk Painting (Bonads)
Nov 2: Jul Tomtar – Paint a family of helpful Swedish Christmas elves
Dec 14: Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments
Jan 4: Dalahästar for a New Year!
Feb 1: Kurbits-Painted Hearts
Mar 1: Contemporary Oro: Takkrona Ceiling Crowns
Apr 5: Pappersblommor (Paper Flowers) for midsommar crowns, garlands & festspirar
Spirit of the Lake Community Arts (SOLCA) is a creative hub located in Duluth, Minnesota’s Lakeside
neighborhood. The center offers classes, festivals, events, and rental spaces for artists and community
members. Formerly a Waldorf-inspired school, SOLCA has since transitioned to a community-based arts
organization.
6/4/26, 2:01 PM Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments - Spirit of the Lake Community Arts - Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth
https://swedishculturalsociety.org/nordic-event/hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-of-the-lake-community-arts/ 3/4
Photo Gallery
(https://swedishculturalso
content/uploads/2025/09
event-2025-11-
crafts.webp)
(https://swedishculturalso
content/uploads/2025/09
202511-bonadsmalning-
wide.webp)
(https://swedishculturalso
content/uploads/2025/09
202511-ingrids-
home.webp)
© Copyright 2026 Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth
(https://www.facebook.com/Swedishculturalsociety/)
(https://www.youtube.com/@swedishculturalsociety)
Website by Byers Media (https://ByersMedia.com)
6/4/26, 2:01 PM Hjärta (Heart) Ornaments - Spirit of the Lake Community Arts - Swedish Cultural Society of Duluth
https://swedishculturalsociety.org/nordic-event/hjarta-heart-ornaments-spirit-of-the-lake-community-arts/ 4/4
Spirit of the Lake Community Arts
Wandering Basket Workshop with Lori from Suku
Mokki
5401 E Superior St
Duluth, MN 55804, USA
Sunday Workshop
Choose tickets
6/4/26, 2:03 PM Wandering Basket Workshop with Lori from Suku Mokki
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/wandering-basket-workshop 1/1
Superior Public Arts Grant Program (SPAG)
Culture, Events, and Public Art Commission of the City of Superior
The Superior Public Art Grant Program SPAG provides small grant funding to artists/artist teams, creatives, makers, performers,
arts organizations, and other cultural drivers, to enhance and increase arts and culture and public art opportunities within the City
of Superior. Funds are dedicated to support presentations, performances, workshops, research, and/or creation of artwork within
the City of Superior. The program strives to encourage artistic engagement, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize Superior
through the arts.
Applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant between $1,000 - $10,000. This grant may be used to fully fund a project. No
match is required. Funds cannot be used to retroactively fund completed projects or portions of projects but can be used for
ongoing projects.
Professional artists of all disciplines, arts organizations and other cultural drivers are encouraged to apply.
Important Attachments:
Applicants should read the Program Description for more information and review criteria to build a strong proposal.
Download the Project Budget Worksheet for completing the submission.
Artist Name
Jonathan Asp
Groups of artists, or artist collectives are eligible to apply. Each artist within the group must consent to be part of the application; however, only one
person/organization must act as the lead applicant.
Artist Email
aspjonathan@gmail.com
Artist Phone Number
218 3408769
Artist Address
2216 Lamborn Avenue, 2216 Lamborn Avenue, Superior, WI 54880
Project Name
Vision Superior
Requested Amount
$10,000
The minimum amount to request is $1,000. Maximum request is $10,000. The amount requested should match the total expenses listed in the Project
Budget below.
Project Description
My artistic offering stems from the emotional and spiritual honesty of sharing experience and the natural world with those I love
and gratitude to the community, and I strive to bring integrity to my work. I would like to publish a book of regional poems, short
stories and photographs that capture the beauty, diversity and vitality of our Superior community.
Describe the project and how it connects to your artistic practice. As applicable, include details about your artistic practice and vision, project
location(s), intended audience, collaborators, partners, and contractors.
Project Timeline
Project begins on September 1st, 2026 Complete written and photographic work by March 31st, 2027 Book content to publisher by
June 30th, 2027 Publication October 30th, 2027 Open House Series Talks Promoting Book, November-December 2027
Describe a timeline for completing the proposed project. Consider including major project milestones that will help you measure progress.
Project Budget
vision-superior-art-grant-budget-
1778005229274.xlsx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Fill out, save, and upload the budget worksheet linked at top of this form. Please use file types: .xls, .xlsx, or PDF. A detailed Project Budget is an
important piece of evidence for the feasibility of the project.
Project Outcomes
1 Examples of my photographic and written work to date is available to view at: www.coolerbythelakecreative.com. 2 Project is
highly feasible based on current offerings 3 Community will be highlighted and benefit diverse groups.
Describe tangible outcomes of the project. Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: : 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility,
and 3 community impact and availability. See project outline for more information.
Project Budget Explanation
The grant will go towards creating new written and photographic work and offset costs associated with the initial publication.
If the project budget exceeds $10,000 please describe the plan for paying for the expenses beyond the maximum award amount. If there are aspects
of the project budget that require explanation, describe them above. Additional budget documents can be u
Project Proposal Supporting Documentation
artists-statement-1778005479542.docx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Submit additional project proposal attachments (if any) here to include with this submission.
IMPORTANT In order to be considered for funding, an application needs to include evidence to support the grant criteria. The Arts
Resume field are required; the other fields are strongly recommended but may not be applicable to your submission. An application
does not need to use every field below in order to be considered complete.
It is recommended that applicants read the Review Criteria section of the Program Description to assist in building a strong
proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility, and 3 community impact
and availability. Evidence to support the criteria will come from the narrative responses and submitted supplemental materials.
Arts Resume or Curriculum Vitae
jonathan-asp-poem-and-artistic-
resume-1778006542594.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Include information that reflects career advancements, professional accomplishments, and training, up to 4 pages.
Letter(s) of Support
letter-of-support-for-jonathan-asp-
1781006136608.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
If applicable, upload letter(s) of support from partners, collaborators, mentors, etc.
Work Sample #1
woodstock-bay-finalized-
1778006758838.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Depending on artistic discipline, work samples might include images, PDFs, video or audio clips, curricula, learning modules, press articles, or
marketing materials. Additional work sample upload boxes are available below.
Work Sample #2
driftwood-finalized-1778006777884.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Work Sample #3
little-manitou-1778006784337.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kqwmt00war963rr0kdtmy7th to view or download full files.
Artist Website
coolerbythelakecreative.com
Artist Social Media
facebook.com/jonathan.asp.7
Online Portfolio Link
https://www.etsy.com/shop/CoolerbytheLakellc?ref=shop_profile&listing_id=4486683553
Additional URL
https://www.youtube.com/@coolerbythelakecreative
Additional URL
SUBMITED ON 6/9/26
Cash
Amount
Detail: Artist Fees $2,500
Detail: $2,500
Detail: $2,500
Detail: $1,000
Detail: $500
Detail: $500
Detail: $250
Detail: $250
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Total expenses should match your request amount Total Expenses $10,000
Event Hospitality
Digital Photographic Supplies and Services
Writing Materials
Travel Expenses
Facility Rental
Event Marketing
Superior Public Art Grants Budget Worksheet
(Fill in only the lines that apply to your request and round to the nearest dollar.
You may add additonal lines in the budget if needed.)
Expenses may include artist or consultant fees, facility or equipment rental, materials,
supplies, services, software, etc. required to complete the project. Total
expenses should match the request amount.
Publishing Expenses
5/15/2026
Project Expenses
Applicant: Jonathan Asp, Cooler by the Lake Creative, LLC
Artist, Jonathan Asp
“My artistic offering stems from the emotional and spiritual honesty of sharing experience
and the natural world with those I love and gratitude to the community, and I strive to bring
integrity to my work” .
“Photography is a passion of mine and I look forward to capturing moments when
composition, light, color, and subject, come together to create a beautiful, unique, and
enduring image.
Writing poetry and storytelling encourages me to slow down and open my senses to the
visual and solitary beauty of the landscape, the feel of the snow and sand underfoot, the
sound of waves lapping shoreline, the smell of dune grass and char from last night’s
campfire, and the taste of fresh air off the water.
Winter Solitude is a poem inspired by a lifetime of walks in nature and around our Superior
Community. I have walked the early morning dunes on Wisconsin Point 100’s of times. On
this winter morning walking with Arlo, my golden retriever, I begin to realize fully, why living
next to The Great Lake is special.
Woodstock Bay is a poem that came from contemplating nature and commerce in the
Lake Superior Region from many different vantage points. Over 30+ years, I have walked
and wandered along the shores of the Twin Ports Harbor. Follow along with me as I have an
adventure close to home in Billings Park.
Driftwood is a poem I wrote while exploring sand dunes and dune grass and the remnants
of trees at odd angles laying on the beach. Some trunks have interesting grain patterns and
characteristics, and I found myself wondering how they got there and where they came
from before coming to rest on Wisconsin Point.
Letter of Support for Jonathan Asp -City of Superior Grant
Inbox
Hill, Mike
Mon, Jun 8, 5:47 PM
(13 hours ago)
to me
To Whom it May Concern:
I am writing to support Jonathan Asp and Cooler by the Lake Creative. I find him to have a talent in
the arts and acknowledge his support for both the nature and community of the
Northwoods. Jonathan has been a client of the SBDC since February of this year for our assistance
in building his blend of his visual and literal creations about and for the community and visitors to
the region.
Sincerely,
Mike Hill, CGBP
Business Consultant
SBDC, Northwest WI
1401 Tower Avenue, Suite 103
Superior, WI 54880
Phone: (608) 262-3025
https://wisconsinsbdc.org/centers/superior
Register for Consulting
Book Your Appointment (available after registering)
Winter Solitude
• Consider solitude in early morning winter air
Sun, wind, water, and waves lapping shoreline
Nature’s rhythm along the shores of The Great Lake
• Chunks of snow, ice, and sand churn and mix underfoot.
A narrow path through tall grass, dune and scented pine
Then boardwalk planks creak in protest.
• Memories of beach blankets, hammocks, Frisbee’s
Lawn chairs and laughter now put away
The calendar and great lake moving past solstice into new year
• Ice shelves growing between sand and water
Ships floating above distant fog appear
Gulls flying silently in cold blue sky
• Mist geysers on water’s surface extend upward
Rising into twisted columns
Charred driftwood from a summer campfire frozen in place
• Arlo ranges over sand dunes,
exploring sights, sounds and smells,
Instincts directing her towards cover in search of game.
• Sun radiates warmth, cutting through fog and cold;
Dune grass, swaying in soft breezes:
Ice growlers rocking back and forth in shallow water
• Locks closed, sailboats and Lakers resting,
Sunshine promising longer days
Winter nights promising colder temperatures.
• Cherish solitude in early morning winter Air,
Sun, wind, water and waves lapping shoreline
Nature’s rhythm along the shores of the Great Lake
Jonathan Asp
2216 Lamborn Avenue
Superior, Wisconsin 54880
218-340-8769
aspjonathan@gmail.com
Cooler by the Lake Creative
coolerbythelakecreative.com
Photo Art for Purchase on Etsy:
https://coolerbythelakellc.etsy.com?coupon=SAVE20
https://coolerbythelakellc.etsy.com
Jonathan Asp is a writer and photographer living in Superior, Wisconsin who captures the
spirit of the Lake Superior Region in stories, poetry, pictures and song
“My artistic offering stems from the emotional and spiritual honesty of sharing experience
and the natural world with those I love and gratitude to the community, and I strive to bring
integrity to my work” .
Showings and Projects
Wisconsin Fellowship of Poets: Published Poem – Winter Solitude
Frame It – Douglas County Historical Society
Essentia Health Vision Northland Project – Cardiology, Superior, Wisconsin
Douglas County Website, Wisconsin
Pattison State Park, Park Office
Black Bear Hotel
Barkers Island Inn
Chester Bowl
Dovetail Café, Duluth
LITTLE MANITOU
The roar of river water falling in powerful torrents and long grass swaying in soft summer breezes.
A path winds down the bank on stone stairs, and across a wooden bridge, the uphill trail
disappearing behind igneous rock formations.
Tannin colored water is dancing across dark basalt in mid-morning sunshine.
The air carries pine scented river breezes, sunshine’s warmth, and the smell of sweet
dew-covered wild grass.
Wet sand in shade holds hoofprints from an apprehensive doe’s early morning drink
Passing clouds and river mist on wet stone, cool moisture fills the air.
Reclining on smooth stone as water upstream works its path around rock, sandbar, and driftwood, I
am transported by history.
Lost in thought about the landscape a billion years ago, covered in lava and long-extinct volcanoes.
On the heels of a great glacier and geological upheavals, Lake Duluth receded then native
Chippewa heard the voice of Gitchi Monido, laughing rapidly north downstream.
Copper fever and industry, trading and timber, claims creating purpose.
Then time moved on and so did the miners, and a plan conspired to harness the power of The Black
River’s Falling Water.
Pattison, champion of industry, older and wiser, ceded land and CCC engineered lake, beach,
trails, tunnel, and buildings.
Little Manitou is free falling today, a legacy of lava, Lake Duluth, Chippawa, Mining, Timber,
Pattison, CCC, DNR, Conservation, and Community, delivering on the promise of protected beauty
in Wisconsin for future generations.
Superior Public Arts Grant Program (SPAG)
Culture, Events, and Public Art Commission of the City of Superior
The Superior Public Art Grant Program SPAG provides small grant funding to artists/artist teams, creatives, makers, performers,
arts organizations, and other cultural drivers, to enhance and increase arts and culture and public art opportunities within the City
of Superior. Funds are dedicated to support presentations, performances, workshops, research, and/or creation of artwork within
the City of Superior. The program strives to encourage artistic engagement, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize Superior
through the arts.
Applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant between $1,000 - $10,000. This grant may be used to fully fund a project. No
match is required. Funds cannot be used to retroactively fund completed projects or portions of projects but can be used for
ongoing projects.
Professional artists of all disciplines, arts organizations and other cultural drivers are encouraged to apply.
Important Attachments:
Applicants should read the Program Description for more information and review criteria to build a strong proposal.
Download the Project Budget Worksheet for completing the submission.
Artist Name
St. Louis River Rendezvous - Patrick Rohde
Groups of artists, or artist collectives are eligible to apply. Each artist within the group must consent to be part of the application; however, only one
person/organization must act as the lead applicant.
Artist Email
stlouisriverrendezvous@gmail.com
Artist Phone Number
218 5902033
Artist Address
2012 North 51st Avenue East, Duluth, MN 55804
Project Name
St. Louis River Rendezvous
Requested Amount
$6,000
The minimum amount to request is $1,000. Maximum request is $10,000. The amount requested should match the total expenses listed in the Project
Budget below.
Project Description
The First Inaugural St. Louis River Rendezvous is a three day historical education event set on the banks of the St. Louis River on
Girl Scout Point in Billings Park featuring 20 living history reenactors. Each reenactment camp provides two days of classes for
local students to learn a wide range of skills and pieces of local history. Classes include hands on demonstrations in the following: -
colonial clothing - glass bead making - native flute - trapping and hunting - hide tanning - candle making - butter making - calico
printing - thread spinning - cordwainer demonstration - Ojibwe history - 16th century lighting - campfire cooking - blacksmithing -
tomahawk throwing - cannon and musket demonstration - frybread making - dutch oven baking - fur trade voyageur history - and
more! The two education days serve up to 500 local students and are followed by one free public event day. Each reenactor has
many years of experience educating through living history, most of which were part of the Lester River Rendezvous which ended
last year after 26 successful years of public education. The St. Louis River Rendezvous offers a unique experience for students and
the public to experience history through hands-on demonstrations from experts in their craft. It is our goal to allow attendants to
step back in time to connect to the very history that formed the region 300 years ago. This event will reach people of all ages, with
education days focusing on children grades 58. It is our hope that a successful event this year will allow the Rendezvous to
continue for many years to come.
Describe the project and how it connects to your artistic practice. As applicable, include details about your artistic practice and vision, project
location(s), intended audience, collaborators, partners, and contractors.
Project Timeline
Education days run on September 24th & 25th from 900300, and the public event runs from 1000200 on Saturday September
26th. Major milestones include: May 2026 publish website stlouisriverrendezvous.com - COMPLETE June 1st 2026 begin school
outreach - ONGOING - 175 current registrations June 30 2026 Completion of funding and sponsorship requests - ONGOING August
31st 2026 Secure funding September 1st 2026 secure city and county event permits September 15th 2026 Close education days
registration September 23rd 2026 event set up
Describe a timeline for completing the proposed project. Consider including major project milestones that will help you measure progress.
Project Budget
st-louis-river-rendezvous-2026-budget-
sheet1117817904…
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kvde5pgwr2801b584rky5ndn to view or download full files.
Fill out, save, and upload the budget worksheet linked at top of this form. Please use file types: .xls, .xlsx, or PDF. A detailed Project Budget is an
important piece of evidence for the feasibility of the project.
Project Outcomes
A successful event would accomplish the following: 1. Education of 500 local students with skill development and memories that
will last a lifetime 2. Provide the community with an educational and entertaining event that has room for future expansion.
Experienced living history reenactors could provide community members with life skills and a deeper connection to the history of
their home. 3. A continued tradition of education and entertainment that would last many years. Future events would also include a
craft fair featuring handmade goods and art as well as live music.
Describe tangible outcomes of the project. Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: : 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility,
and 3 community impact and availability. See project outline for more information.
Project Budget Explanation
The goal of the budget is to keep costs low for students to attend education days. With a capacity of 500 students, we would expect
to receive $2500 in registration fees. This number would likely be less as the event will offer financial assistance to groups that are
in need. The remainder of the budget relies on grant funding and sponsorships from community members.
If the project budget exceeds $10,000 please describe the plan for paying for the expenses beyond the maximum award amount. If there are aspects
of the project budget that require explanation, describe them above. Additional budget documents can be u
Project Proposal Supporting Documentation
Uploaded file
slrrsponsorshipform2026
1781791121901.pdf
education-days-letter-2026
1781791121899.pdf
Uploaded file
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kvde5pgwr2801b584rky5ndn to view or download full files.
Submit additional project proposal attachments (if any) here to include with this submission.
IMPORTANT In order to be considered for funding, an application needs to include evidence to support the grant criteria. The Arts
Resume field are required; the other fields are strongly recommended but may not be applicable to your submission. An application
does not need to use every field below in order to be considered complete.
It is recommended that applicants read the Review Criteria section of the Program Description to assist in building a strong
proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility, and 3 community impact
and availability. Evidence to support the criteria will come from the narrative responses and submitted supplemental materials.
Arts Resume or Curriculum Vitae
education-days-letter-2026
1781791183152.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kvde5pgwr2801b584rky5ndn to view or download full files.
Include information that reflects career advancements, professional accomplishments, and training, up to 4 pages.
Letter(s) of Support
If applicable, upload letter(s) of support from partners, collaborators, mentors, etc.
Work Sample #1
Uploaded file
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kvde5pgwr2801b584rky5ndn to view or download full files.
Depending on artistic discipline, work samples might include images, PDFs, video or audio clips, curricula, learning modules, press articles, or
marketing materials. Additional work sample upload boxes are available below.
Work Sample #2
Uploaded file
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kvde5pgwr2801b584rky5ndn to view or download full files.
Work Sample #3
Artist Website
stlouisriverrendezvous.com
Artist Social Media
https://www.facebook.com/stlouisriverrendezvous/
Online Portfolio Link
Additional URL
https://www.northernnewsnow.com/2025/09/30/holding-history-lester-river-rendezvous-relives-voyageur-era/
Additional URL
SUBMITED ON 6/18/26
St. Louis River RendezvousBudget 2026
Categories Details $ Estimated$ Actual $ Difference
Expenses: Venue
Camping Permit Douglas County HHS $250
Portable RestroomsMr. Biffy x 5 @ 3 Days $1,125
Insurance Estimate $600
City permit Estimate $150
Expenses: Education
Reenactors $250/Each $5,000
Food 20 people x 3 Meals $400
Firewood $500
Expenses: Marketing
Website Estimate $350
Flyers & Rack CardsEstimate $250
Mailing Estimate $500
Event Signage Estimate $1,500
Media/Radio/NewspaperEstimate $500
Expenses: Miscellaneous
Total Expenses $11,125
Revenue: All Categories
Student Fee $5/Student $2,500
Grants Not secured $6,000
Event SponsorshipNot secured $5,000
Donations Not secured $500
Total Revenue $14,000
Net Revenue $2,875
Future funding is largely dependant on sponsorships and donations. The goal of the rendezvous is to keep education costs low, so increasing student
fees is the very last option when looking to maintain or increase funding.
Unlock a world of immersive learning for your students at the 2026 Education Days, Hosted by the St. Louis
River
Rendezvous!
(Formerly
Lester
River
Rendezvous)
Dive
into
the
rich
tapestry
of
the
fur
trade
era
and
discover
its
profound
impact
on
the
history
of
the
Upper
Great
Lakes
Region.
This
hands-on
educational
experience
is
designed
to
educate
and
captivate
your
students.
Education Day classes, set against the backdrop of the St. Louis River in Superior’s Billings Park, take place
on
Thursday,
September
24th
and
Friday,
September
25th.
Each
group
of
students
will
participate
in
7-8
interactive
sessions,
with
a
break
for
lunch.
Upon
your
arrival
at
Billings
Park,
a
schedule
will
await
with
stations
such
as
these:
Voyageur’s Life
Blacksmithing Colonial Clothing Trapping - Shoemaking - Fire-Starting - Cannon Firing Fur Post - Voyageur Games - Ojibwe Life - Cooking And much more! Although this is a full day event, there are more available demonstrations than there is available time. Extend
the
learning
beyond
Education
Days
by
encouraging
your
students
to
explore
the
Voyageur
Village
on
Saturday,
September
26th
from
10:00
to
2:00
during
the
St.
Louis
River
Rendezvous.
To make the event even better, the cost per student is only $5, making this extraordinary educational
opportunity
not
only
enriching,
but
also
affordable.
For
schools
facing
budget
constraints,
financial
aid
is
also
available!
Reach
out
to
us
for
details
on
how
we
can
support
your
educational
goals.
Classes are held rain or shine. Seize this unique chance for your students to learn, explore, and be inspired. Register online at StLouisRiverRendezvous.com/education-days by September 20, as space is limited and spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Don’t miss out on this transformative educational journey at the St. Louis River Rendezvous!
Superior Public Arts Grant Program (SPAG)
Culture, Events, and Public Art Commission of the City of Superior
The Superior Public Art Grant Program SPAG provides small grant funding to artists/artist teams, creatives, makers, performers,
arts organizations, and other cultural drivers, to enhance and increase arts and culture and public art opportunities within the City
of Superior. Funds are dedicated to support presentations, performances, workshops, research, and/or creation of artwork within
the City of Superior. The program strives to encourage artistic engagement, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize Superior
through the arts.
Applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant between $1,000 - $10,000. This grant may be used to fully fund a project. No
match is required. Funds cannot be used to retroactively fund completed projects or portions of projects but can be used for
ongoing projects.
Professional artists of all disciplines, arts organizations and other cultural drivers are encouraged to apply.
Important Attachments:
Applicants should read the Program Description for more information and review criteria to build a strong proposal.
Download the Project Budget Worksheet for completing the submission.
Artist Name
Time Arc Theatre LLC, Kathy Laakso, Owner/Artistic Director
Groups of artists, or artist collectives are eligible to apply. Each artist within the group must consent to be part of the application; however, only one
person/organization must act as the lead applicant.
Artist Email
kslaakso5@gmail.com
Artist Phone Number
218 3482230
Artist Address
906 N. 19th Street, Superior, WI 54880
Project Name
Strike For Dickie! A Musical
Requested Amount
$9,660
The minimum amount to request is $1,000. Maximum request is $10,000. The amount requested should match the total expenses listed in the Project
Budget below.
Project Description
In May of 1927 popular English teacher, Miss Lulu Dickinson, was fired from her position at Central High School by the Board of
Education because she disagreed with the Superintendentʼs educational policies. This led to a lengthy student strike that changed
the method of how Boards of Education are chosen: not by appointment by the mayor but by votes by the people. It made national
newspaper headlines. Time Arc Theatreʼs 20262027 season will conclude with a musical version of the original play, Strike for
Dickie! The People vs The Board of Education, marking the 100th anniversary of the strike. The production will be in conjunction
with our Summer Youth Theatre Program, initiated last year with the help of a Superior Public Arts Grant. Superiorʼs Central High
School graduated several students who went on to illustrious careers: Esther Bubley, Life and Look Magazine photographer; Bud
Grant, Minnesota Vikings coach; Dick Bong, local WWII hero, Morgan Murphy, owner of The Telegram and co-founder of WEBC
Radio; Gordon MacQuarrie, well-known outdoor editor and columnist and J.W. Beecroft, editor of Doubledayʼs Literary Guild,
among many others. MacQuarrie, Murphy and Beecroft were students of Lulu Dickinson. The script and music tell the story of a
blue-collar working town, where many young people found careers in the shipping, railroad and construction industries. Miss
Dickinson, or “Dickie,ˮ as her students fondly called her, believed that students, no matter what career they chose, needed a well-
rounded education, which included works by Shakespeare and Chaucer. When new superintendent Paul Spencer arrived, he
brought along his philosophy that stemmed from the new progressive movement in education. Students were most likely going to
go on to blue-collar jobs anyway and didnʼt require college-bound classes. Miss Dickinson was blunt in her disapproval of these
policies, which led him to first reprimanding her and finally firing her. What Mr. Spencer didnʼt realize was how well-loved Dickie
was. Over a thousand students walked out from all three schools and the entire town got involved. Producing this play offers an
opportunity to build on its new Summer Youth Theatre program by including the kids in the regular season as well as satisfying
Time Arc Theatreʼs mission to teach and entertain and to grow the company for the future. The story also demands a large
presence of kids, from elementary to high school.
Describe the project and how it connects to your artistic practice. As applicable, include details about your artistic practice and vision, project
location(s), intended audience, collaborators, partners, and contractors.
Project Timeline
Auditions will be in April 2027 with the adult cast beginning rehearsals right away. Early registration for our youth theatre program
will ensure that the students will be given their music and scripts before the school year ends to begin learning them and then
incorporated into the show when their schedules open up. The schedule will be as follows: April-May – Auditions and rehearsals
with adults and musicians June 711 – Students incorporated into show and with musicians June 1418 – Everyone will rehearse
with lighting and sound until opening night on June 18. June 18, 19, 20 and June 25, 26, 27 - Performance Music is being written and
directed by Bruce Nelson. This will be the third collaboration between Nelson and playwright, Kathy Laakso, having worked
together on successful productions of a melodrama, You Canʼt Keep a Good Man Down, and the story of shipwrecks and the
Edmund Fitzgerald, When Storms Come Calling. Nelson is extremely talented as a musician and sensitive to the telling of the story
in music. He will work with the other musician/musicians and plans to give the students their rehearsal sound files in advance so
they can come ready to sing on June 7th.
Describe a timeline for completing the proposed project. Consider including major project milestones that will help you measure progress.
Project Budget
artist-program-budget-dickie-
1782687776242.xlsx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw7q90576a177gj95ma2z4a to view or download full files.
Fill out, save, and upload the budget worksheet linked at top of this form. Please use file types: .xls, .xlsx, or PDF. A detailed Project Budget is an
important piece of evidence for the feasibility of the project.
Project Outcomes
In the eight years that Time Arc Theatre has taken its mission forward to educate and entertain, the community has realized the
possibility of theatre in Superior as well as a pride in our areaʼs unique sense of place. Historical people and events are more than
articles found in old newspapers, and Time Arc Theatre strives to make them real people who made a difference in how we live
today. Audience members often share what they feel during a performance or how they relate to it or how their children have found
their purpose by getting involved. Always reaching new goals, it is our hope to create a sector dedicated to childrenʼs theatre. Time
Arc Theatre will continue its mission to search out and share our history. It is intended that including the Summer Theatre Program
students in the final show of the season will strengthen awareness of opportunities for kids from elementary age through high
school. With a growing troupe of young actors, writers and technicians, Time Arc Theatre has the potential to grow into the next
generation of supporters of local arts and theatre.
Describe tangible outcomes of the project. Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: : 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility,
and 3 community impact and availability. See project outline for more information.
Project Budget Explanation
This is the largest production that Time Arc has undertaken. The vision for this show is a rousing illustration of the power that lies
with people working together, with music, dance and a large cast of kids and adults alike, demonstrating their love for a teacher.
The music and costumes will take the audience back to 1927, a time when young people were becoming the influence and new
movement to the future. The musicians are professionals, having worked with orchestras and various bands. Publicity will include
paid and earned media in the Twin Ports, and, with the closing of the Blatnik Bridge, a wide network of outlets will be used in the
counties beyond Superior. A list of outlets and a campaign is being generated already this summer. It is important to include the
Youth theatre facilitator with the overall direction of the show, teaching the students about the era they will be reenacting.
If the project budget exceeds $10,000 please describe the plan for paying for the expenses beyond the maximum award amount. If there are aspects
of the project budget that require explanation, describe them above. Additional budget documents can be u
Project Proposal Supporting Documentation
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw7q90576a177gj95ma2z4a to view or download full files.
Submit additional project proposal attachments (if any) here to include with this submission.
IMPORTANT In order to be considered for funding, an application needs to include evidence to support the grant criteria. The Arts
Resume field are required; the other fields are strongly recommended but may not be applicable to your submission. An application
does not need to use every field below in order to be considered complete.
It is recommended that applicants read the Review Criteria section of the Program Description to assist in building a strong
proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility, and 3 community impact
and availability. Evidence to support the criteria will come from the narrative responses and submitted supplemental materials.
Arts Resume or Curriculum Vitae
artist-resume20261782689144897.pdf porter-time-arc-cv-1782689176225.pdf porter-time-arc-resume-
1782689188447.pdf
artist-work-bruce-nelson-
1782689194762.docx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw7q90576a177gj95ma2z4a to view or download full files.
Include information that reflects career advancements, professional accomplishments, and training, up to 4 pages.
Letter(s) of Support
letter-of-recommendationmeronek-
1782689246697.pdf
recommendation-letterc-ledin-
1782689255140.docx
time-arc-letter-of-support-2026dev-
assoc-1782689279073.…
time-arc-letter-of-supportporter-
1782689292112.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw7q90576a177gj95ma2z4a to view or download full files.
If applicable, upload letter(s) of support from partners, collaborators, mentors, etc.
Work Sample #1
exampleexerpts-from-dickie-draft-
1782689311621.docx
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw7q90576a177gj95ma2z4a to view or download full files.
Depending on artistic discipline, work samples might include images, PDFs, video or audio clips, curricula, learning modules, press articles, or
marketing materials. Additional work sample upload boxes are available below.
Work Sample #2
Work Sample #3
Artist Website
www.timearctheatrellc.org
Artist Social Media
https://www.facebook.com/TimeArcTheatre
Online Portfolio Link
Additional URL
Additional URL
SUBMITED ON 6/28/26
Cash
Amount
Detail: Composer and music director, piano $2,000
Detail: $745
Detail: $745
Detail:
Detail:
Detail: $1,000
Detail: $670
Detail: $2,500
Detail: $300
Detail: $1,700
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Total expenses should match your request amount Total Expenses $9,660
Costume Rental and Costumer
Choreographer
Rent
Musician, saxaphone; rehearsal and performance
(Rehearsal - $55/night x 7 per musician)
(Rehearsal - $55/night x 7 per musician)
Facilitator of Summer Youth Theatre Program/Co-Director
Publicity - Rack cards/Posters/Magazine ad/TV spot
Superior Public Art Grants Budget Worksheet
(Fill in only the lines that apply to your request and round to the nearest dollar.
You may add additonal lines in the budget if needed.)
Expenses may include artist or consultant fees, facility or equipment rental, materials,
supplies, services, software, etc. required to complete the project. Total
expenses should match the request amount.
Musician, violin; rehearsal and performance
6/29/2026
Project Expenses
Time Arc Theatre LLC, Kathy Laakso, Owner/Artistic Director
THEATRE EXPERIENCE
When Storms Come Calling Playwright/Director Time Arc Theatre LLC
Heartbreak Playwright/Actor Time Arc Theatre LLC
Go Dog, Go! B/W Dog Animal Allies
Arsenic and Old Lace Abby UW-Superior
Octette Bridge Club Lil UW-Superior Alum Show
Calendar Girls Annie The Underground
You’ll Find it at Roth’s Ruth Time Arc Theatre, Superior
I And You Director UW-Superior
Wild Wild (Mid)West Writer/Director Time Arc Theatre, Superior
1943 USO Canteen Radio Show Singer/Director/Writer Time Arc Theatre, Superior
The Kitchen Witches Isobel Twin Ports Stage, Superior
Children of the Holocaust Writer/Director UW-Superior, Superior, WI
Great Expectations Miss Havisham History Theatre, Superior
The Children’s Hour Karen Duluth Playground
The Bad Seed Director Duluth Playhouse
Noises Off Dotty Duluth Playhouse
Blithe Spirit Ruth Duluth Playhouse
Chess Chorus/dancer Duluth Playhouse
Cemetery Club Doris Wine/Dine Players, Superior
Lettice & Loveage Lettice Duluth Playhouse
Death of a Salesman Linda UW-Superior
Social Security Barbara Oshkosh Community Theatre
A Streetcar Named Desire Stella Summer Heat Prod., TX
Goodbye, Charlie Charlie Stage Center, Bryan, TX
TELEVISION: Commercials, industrial and voiceovers; PBS - actor in series pilot, narrator
RADIO: Announcer, commercials, arts reporter, script writer
THEATRE FOUNDER/COFOUNDER: 1) Time Arc Theatre: Business owner, freelance writer,
director, actor, producer; 2) Douglas County Historical Society History Theatre, Superior, actor,
director, playwright, producer; 3) Cofounder, ‘magination Station Children’s Theatre, Bryan, TX
EDUCATION: UWS BS theatre, mass comm-radio & film; M.A communication; Texas A&M
University, College Station, TX- Course work in theatre; training with Pulitzer Prize winning
playwright, Charles Gordone; playwriting workshop, Playwright’s Center
PERSONAL INFORMATION
DOB February 6, 1955
Height – 5’2”
Hair – Brown/gray
Eyes – Blue
Weight – 112
Voice Type- Alto, Soprano
Kathleen Laakso
218-348-2230
kslaakso5@gmail.com
Joshua “Bobby” Porter 629 Roosevelt Ave, Superior, WI 54880 bobbyportertheatre@gmail.com | 715.533.3107 QUALIFICATIONS ● Over a decade of theatre and filmmaking experience including directing, design, and performance. EDUCATION B.A. in Communicating Arts: Theatre and Digital Filmmaking Concentration Minors: Writing & Music GPA: 3.52/4.0 Graduation: December 2023 STAGE MANAGEMENT WORK Position Show Organization Year S.M. “La Cenerentola” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2023 S.M. “Xanadu” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2023 S.M. “Freaky Friday” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2022 S.M. “Die Fledermaus” University of Wisconsin- Superior 2021
STAGE ACTING WORK Role Show Organization Year Zane “The Waiting Room” Rubber Chicken Theatre 2026 Multiple Roles “Murder Times Two” Time Arc Theatre 2024 Lt. Rooney “Arsenic & Old Lace” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Duke of Norfolk “A Man for All Seasons” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Mortimer “Fantasticks” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Multiple Roles “COVID 2020” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2020 Cosmo Brown “Singing in the Rain” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2019
SCREEN ACTING WORK Role Show Organization Year Callum “Hands” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Joseph “Pressure” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Multiple Roles “Getting Into COVID Shape” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2020
LIGHT AND SOUND WORK Position Show Organization Year Lightboard Op. “Hansel and Gretal” Lyric Opera of the North 2022 Light/Sound Op. “Behind the Scenes” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Lightboard Op. Dance with Grace Dance Recital Osseo-Fairchild High School 2019 Spotlight Crew “All Shook Up” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2018 Spotlight Crew “42nd Street” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2017 Spotlight Crew “Crazy for You” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2016
Spotlight Crew “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat”
Osseo-Fairchild High School 2015
Spotlight Crew “Footloose” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2014
DIRECTING WORK Position Show Organization Year Facilitator of Writing and Research
“Born a Hero, Died a Hero” Time Arc Theatre Youth Summer Camp 2026
Director (Stage) “Mmmbeth” Cloquet High School 2026 Director (Stage) “Chicken Hat Plays” Rubber Chicken Theatre 2025 Lead Facilitator “The Bird of Hope” Time Arc Theatre Youth Summer Camp 2025 Director (Stage) “Dirt” Cloquet High School 2025 Director (Stage) “The Dining Room” County Seat Theatre Co. 2024 Director (Stage) “Bro Daddy” Rubber Chicken Theatre 2024 Director (Stage) “Almost, Maine” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2024 Director (Stage) “At the Bottom of Lake Missoula”
Cloquet High School 2024
Associate Fight Director (Stage)
“She Kills Monsters” Sordelet Inc. 2023
Assistant Director (Stage)
“She Kills Monsters” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2023
Artistic Director “Xanadu” Osseo-Fairchild High School 2023 Director (Film) “The Last Drive” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2023 Director (Stage) “10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse”
Cloquet High School 2023
Director (Stage) “Approaching Lavender” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Director (Film) “Memories” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2021 Director (Film) “Getting into COVID Shape” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2019
SET AND COSTUME WORK
Position Show Organization Year Costume & Set Design “10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse”
Cloquet High School 2023
Costume & Set Design “Approaching Lavender” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2022 Set Builder “Die Fledermaus” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2021 Set Builder “COVID 2020” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2020 Set Builder “Gaslight” University of Wisconsin - Superior 2019
Joshua Porter Facilitator of Writing and Research
629 Roosevelt Ave Superior, WI 54880 715.533.3107 bobbyportertheatre@gmail.com
EDUCATION
Sept 2019- Dec 2023
University of Wisconsin – Superior Superior, WI Bachelor of Arts in Communicating Arts: Theatre and Digital Filmmaking Minors in Writing and Music – 3.52 GPA
P
ROFESSIONAL
EXPERIENCE
Jan 2024- Present
Admissions and Recruitment Coordinator UW-Superior Oversee recruitment and application review in the state of Wisconsin, including, but not limited to, the Direct Admit Program and Wisconsin Education Fairs.
Nov 2022- Present
One Act Play Director Cloquet High School Direct and design shows for competition in the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) and co-founded the Twin Ports One Act Celebration.
Oct 2024- Present
Summer Camp Facilitator Time Arc Theatre Tasked with writing, designing, and leading a week-long youth summer theatre program based around Wisconsin history.
Sept 2020- Oct 2024
Freelance Theatre Various Locations Performed various duties for several theatre companies around the Twin Ports. This includes, but is not limited to, directing, acting, and hanging light fixtures.
SKILLS & ABILITIES
● Proficiency in Cue Stack Software ● Strong knowledge of the Adobe and Microsoft Office suites ● Strong collaboration skills. Works well with a team
A
CCOMPLISHMENTS
Recognized in the Twin Ports as an accomplished youth theatre professional, highlighting improvisational theatre and games. Recognized in Scouting America as an Eagle Scout and a regional Adam’s Award recipient.
Bruce Nelson
Time Arc Theatre
Board Member and Music Director
Bruce W. Nelson is a songwriter, composer, jazz pianist and retired music teacher. He received
both his Bachelor’s and his Master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. After
twenty-one years of teaching in Winona, Minnesota, he moved to Russia where, from 1998 to
2016, he was choir director at the Anglo-American School of Moscow. Nelson has served as both
director and conductor of youth music festival choirs in Hungary, Bulgaria, Czech Republic,
Romania, Russia and Poland. With an oeuvre of around 250 original songs, he has published
many songs for singers of all ages. While in Russia, he produced and starred in multiple
iterations of his musical revue, “Notes From Moscow”, a witty and sentimental commentary on
ex-pat life in the Russian capital.
Since moving back to the States, Bruce has enjoyed his “Song A Day” and has thousands of
subscriptions to his Facebook persona, “Mangy Fetlocks,” a humorous character he created. In
2022 he wrote the music to You Can’t Keep a Good Man Down, a melodrama written by Kathy
Laakso. In 2025 he wrote the music to When Storms Come Calling, written by Kathy Laakso.
This is the third collaboration between the two.
Members of the Grants committee
Superior Public Arts Grant Program
President Harry Truman once said that the only thing new in the world is
the history you do not know. The Superior school strike of 1927 would
certainly qualify as an event in this city’s history that most people do not
know or have even heard about. It was, however, a pivotal moment in
Superior that forever changed how citizens would become active
participants in the future of their schools. Because of the events of 1927,
the people of Superior now had the right to decide who would sit on their
school board instead of leaving that determination up to the mayor.
Kathy Laakso’s play Strike for Dickie: The People vs The Board of
Education has everything - a lead character you can cheer for, a bad guy
you can boo, a group of students who loved “Dickie” and would do just
about anything for her and a high school principal who always put his
students first. I’m also certain that the addition of Bruce Nelson’s original
music will take an already great play to another level. Kathy and Bruce
have collaborated on two previous productions, You Can’t Keep a Good
Man Down and When Storms Come Calling, both of which were based on
local history and both of which had audience members on their feet
enthusiastically cheering at the end of the show.
Time Arc Theatre has built its reputation on presenting original plays
written about Superior and Douglas County. No one else does this and I
feel that it is important for the Public Art Grant Program to support this
unique addition to the local arts community. Next year, 2027, will be the
100th anniversary of the school strike of 1927. What better way to honor
the people who participated in this event and who believed that supporting
a beloved teacher was worth the sacrifice?
Sincerely,
Teddie Meronek
Joshua “Bobby” Porter 715-533-3107 | bobbyportertheatre@gmail.com City of Superior Superior Public Arts Grant Program 1316 N. 14th Street Superior, WI 54880, USA To Whom This May Concern, I am writing to express my support in Time Arc Theatre’s grant proposal for their summer youth theatre program. For the
past
two
years
I
have
worked
on
the
program.
The
first
year
as
Lead
Facilitator
and
the
second
as
Facilitator
of
Writing
and
Research.
It
is
my
belief
that
this
program
would
benefit
profusely
from
this
grant.
When first approached by Kathy Laakso of Time Arc Theatre to start a youth theatre camp two years ago, I will admit that
I
was
a
bit
overwhelmed.
I
had
always
wanted
to
work
on
a
summer
theatre
camp
for
students,
but
the
prospect
of
creating
one
from
scratch
was
not
what
I
had
anticipated.
With
the
guidance
of
Kathy,
Ed,
and
several
others,
we
were
able
to
put
together
a
program
that
combined
the
beauty
of
live
theatre
with
the
rich
history
of
Wisconsin,
mainly
the
mascot
of
the
8th
Wisconsin
Volunteer
Infantry
Regiment,
Old
Abe,
during
the
American
Civil
War.
The second year was just as special, if not more. We took the baseline we had made in the previous year and grew it into a
two
week
program
focusing
on
someone
a
bit
closer
to
home,
Major
Richard
Ira
Bong,
the
United
States
Ace
of
Aces
and
Poplar,
WI
native.
Not
only
was
it
amazing
to
see
the
students
learn
about
our
own
hometown
hero,
but
to
then
see
them
turn
around
and
write
and
perform
a
show
about
him
was
something
even
more
special.
Now we look forward to the next camp, and we see that a grant could help us take the camp even further. Next summer,
we
intend
to
perform
an
original
musical
titled
Strike
for
Dickie!
The
People
vs
The
Board
of
Education
.
This
story
strikes
even
closer
to
home,
as
it
takes
place
in
the
school
district
of
Superior
back
in
1927.
Though
it
is
not
going
to
be
written
by
the
students
this
year,
they
will
be
learning
more
about
other
aspects
of
theatre
that
cannot
be
done
with
plays,
namely
dancing
and
singing.
While
dancing
and
singing
may
sound
trivial,
it
is
no
small
task
to
do
while
trying
to
act
like
a
completely
different
person.
There are plenty of theatre camps across the Twin Ports, but none are like what we do at Time Arc Theatre. No other camp
teaches
the
students
the
basics
of
writing,
performing,
building,
and
designing
every
aspect
like
we
do.
Students
in
this
year’s
camp
had
a
say
in
every
single
aspect
of
the
performance.
We
don’t
ask
for
this
grant
for
our
own
sake,
but
for
the
sake
of
every
student
who
gets
a
chance
to
be
creative
at
our
camp.
Thank you for considering Time Arc Theatre for this grant. If you have any questions for me about the program, please
don't
hesitate
to
email
me
at
the
address
above.
Sincerely,
Joshua Porter
Superior Public Arts Grant Program (SPAG)
Culture, Events, and Public Art Commission of the City of Superior
The Superior Public Art Grant Program SPAG provides small grant funding to artists/artist teams, creatives, makers, performers,
arts organizations, and other cultural drivers, to enhance and increase arts and culture and public art opportunities within the City
of Superior. Funds are dedicated to support presentations, performances, workshops, research, and/or creation of artwork within
the City of Superior. The program strives to encourage artistic engagement, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize Superior
through the arts.
Applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant between $1,000 - $10,000. This grant may be used to fully fund a project. No
match is required. Funds cannot be used to retroactively fund completed projects or portions of projects but can be used for
ongoing projects.
Professional artists of all disciplines, arts organizations and other cultural drivers are encouraged to apply.
Important Attachments:
Applicants should read the Program Description for more information and review criteria to build a strong proposal.
Download the Project Budget Worksheet for completing the submission.
Artist Name
Superior Historic Properties
Groups of artists, or artist collectives are eligible to apply. Each artist within the group must consent to be part of the application; however, only one
person/organization must act as the lead applicant.
Artist Email
mcculloughj@superiorwi.gov
Artist Phone Number
715 3945712
Artist Address
906 E 2nd Street, Superior, WI 54880
Project Name
Victorian Séance Experience
Requested Amount
2500
The minimum amount to request is $1,000. Maximum request is $10,000. The amount requested should match the total expenses listed in the Project
Budget below.
Project Description
At Fairlawn Mansion we would like to put on an educational Halloween performance demonstrating the ways in which spiritualist
“mediumsˮ would fool people into believing that they could communicate with spirits. Despite multiple stage magicians, including
Harry Houdini, exposing these “mediumsˮ as frauds, Spiritualism remained a visible phenomenon into the 20th century. Magician
Michael Callahan has developed an educational and entertaining historical “séanceˮ program that demonstrates these tricks and at
the end explains how they were performed. Mr. Callahan has performed this program multiple times at historic venues in the past.
Superior Historic Properties views Mr. Callahanʼs performance as an opportunity to incorporate more interactive educational
components into its event programming. The performance(s) would take place at Fairlawn Mansion and would be intended for a
“PG13ˮ audience.
Describe the project and how it connects to your artistic practice. As applicable, include details about your artistic practice and vision, project
location(s), intended audience, collaborators, partners, and contractors.
Project Timeline
It is the intent to host Mr. Callahanʼs performances in one night in the leadup to Halloween, but we are confident that the event will
draw an audience regardless of when it is held.
Describe a timeline for completing the proposed project. Consider including major project milestones that will help you measure progress.
Project Budget
shp-artist-budget-
publicartgrantsprogram-
1782739365212.…
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw06fwd1sy7kx5813nxzpf0z to view or download full files.
Fill out, save, and upload the budget worksheet linked at top of this form. Please use file types: .xls, .xlsx, or PDF. A detailed Project Budget is an
important piece of evidence for the feasibility of the project.
Project Outcomes
1. Mr. Callahan is nationally recognized for his technical and comedic abilities as a performer, but also for his expertise in the
history of stage magic. We are confident that this performance will be both educational and entertaining, leading not only to an
engaging guest experience but will also boost Fairlawnʼs reputation as a high-quality venue. 2. The project is feasible as a variation
of this performance has already been written and produced by Mr. Callahan in years past. The original performance was also
designed for a historic house museum, and will dovetail well at Fairlawn. 3. We anticipate that this program will impact local
awareness of Fairlawn as a venue, but also critically examine the relationship between historic spaces and the “supernatural.ˮ
Fairlawn regularly receives inquiries about supposed hauntings, some of which were explicitly seeded decades ago by previous
staff and internet rumors. This performance will pique the interest of guests but in a way that examines the power of suggestion
and in historical context. Secondly, Mr. Callahan has generously offered to conduct three performances to increase community
access to the show, and with the support of the Superior Public Arts Grant we will be able to offer ticket prices at a more affordable
rate.
Describe tangible outcomes of the project. Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: : 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility,
and 3 community impact and availability. See project outline for more information.
Project Budget Explanation
The total requested budget does not exceed $10,000
If the project budget exceeds $10,000 please describe the plan for paying for the expenses beyond the maximum award amount. If there are aspects
of the project budget that require explanation, describe them above. Additional budget documents can be u
Project Proposal Supporting Documentation
Submit additional project proposal attachments (if any) here to include with this submission.
IMPORTANT In order to be considered for funding, an application needs to include evidence to support the grant criteria. The Arts
Resume field are required; the other fields are strongly recommended but may not be applicable to your submission. An application
does not need to use every field below in order to be considered complete.
It is recommended that applicants read the Review Criteria section of the Program Description to assist in building a strong
proposal.
Proposals will be evaluated based on three criteria: 1 artistic excellence & merit, 2 project feasibility, and 3 community impact
and availability. Evidence to support the criteria will come from the narrative responses and submitted supplemental materials.
Arts Resume or Curriculum Vitae
michael-callahan-cv-may-2023
1782740124842.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw06fwd1sy7kx5813nxzpf0z to view or download full files.
Include information that reflects career advancements, professional accomplishments, and training, up to 4 pages.
Letter(s) of Support
letter-of-support-callahan-
1782740215897.pdf
Visit heygov.co/ci.superior.wi.us/fr_01kw06fwd1sy7kx5813nxzpf0z to view or download full files.
If applicable, upload letter(s) of support from partners, collaborators, mentors, etc.
Work Sample #1
Depending on artistic discipline, work samples might include images, PDFs, video or audio clips, curricula, learning modules, press articles, or
marketing materials. Additional work sample upload boxes are available below.
Work Sample #2
Work Sample #3
Artist Website
https://www.mjcallahan.com/intro
Artist Social Media
Online Portfolio Link
Additional URL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0FV5-ikfWY
Additional URL
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0FV5-ikfWY
SUBMITED ON 6/29/26
Cash
Amount
Detail: Michael Callahan performance fee $2,500
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Detail:
Total expenses should match your request amount Total Expenses $2,500
Superior Public Art Grants Budget Worksheet
(Fill in only the lines that apply to your request and round to the nearest dollar.
You may add additonal lines in the budget if needed.)
Expenses may include artist or consultant fees, facility or equipment rental, materials,
supplies, services, software, etc. required to complete the project. Total
expenses should match the request amount.
Date:
Project Expenses
Applicant:
Curriculum Vitae
MICHAEL J. CALLAHAN
38234 466th Lane
St. Peter, MN. 56082
(507) 995 - 9638
michaeljamesentertainment@gmail.com
www.mjcallahan.com
Work:
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Toy Designer/Entrepreneur 1995 - 1997
IMAGINE Toys, Wray, CO
Magician 1996 - present
National
Magician: Close Up Magic 1996 - 1999
ChriSahr’s Grill & Pasta, Longmont, CO
Magician: Strolling Magic 1998
Six Flags, Elitch Gardens, Denver, CO
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2005
Haunted Kirksville
Kirksville, MO
Stand Up Comedian: 2007 - 2020
National
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2007
Little Ghost Theater
St. Peter, MN
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2008 - 2010
A Victorian Seance at The Cox House
St. Peter, MN
Producer/Performer: 2008 - 2010
The Fire fly Club
St. Peter, MN
Corporate Magician: 2009 - present
National
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2010 - 2021
Victorian Seance, Fact or Fiction?
The Ramsey Mansion, St. Paul, MN
Producer/Performer: 2010 - 2022
2nd Story Comedy
St. Peter, MN
Artist: Watercolor & Ink 2014 - present
Guest Lecturer: Victorian Magic 2017, 2018
History Happy Hour
Minnesota Historical Society
St. Paul Minnesota
Host/Emcee/Performer: 2018 - 2019
The Banjo Hour
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2019 - 2021
Master of Illusion: The Selbit Sawing
The James J. Hill House, St. Paul MN
Panelist: Hysteria, Hypnosis, and 2022
Hallucination
Univ. of Minn., Northrop Auditorium
Artist: Acrylic 2022 - present
Writer/Producer/Actor: 2022 - present
Tricks & Drinks
St. Peter, MN
KMSU Radio Host/DJ 2022 - present
FORMAL TRAINING:
Baccalaureate:
University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 1993 - 1997
School of Engineering
Metropolitan State College of Denver
Denver, CO
B.S., Biology, 2000
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPERIENCE:
2016 Vice President, International Brotherhood of Magicians
Ring 19, St. Paul, MN
2017 President, International Brotherhood of Magicians
Ring 19, St. Paul, MN
2014 Board Member, Nicollet County Historical Society
St Peter, MN
PUBLICATIONS:
2004 Six Tricks, by The Magician’s Cellar
Self Published
2010 Perfect Toss, by Craftsman Magic
Self Published
2022 Using a Magic Trick Demonstration as a Critical Thinking Activity
Dr. Emily Stark & Michael Callahan, Minnesota State University
AWARDS:
2018 Runner Up: The Presidents Competition
The International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 19
2019 Winner: The Presidents Competition
The International Brotherhood of Magicians, Ring 19
Superior Council for the Arts
Sponsorship
Request
Regional Creative Industries Summit
Requested Amount for 2026: $5,965
The Superior Council for the Arts respectfully requests monetary sponsorship support from the
City
of
Superior
Public
Arts
Commission
for
the
upcoming
Regional
Creative
Industries
Summit,
planned
for
Fall
2026
in
Superior.
This free, public arts event is designed to strengthen arts, culture, and creative economic
development
throughout
the
City
of
Superior,
Douglas
County,
and
the
surrounding
region.
The
Summit
will
bring
together
artists,
creative
workers,
cultural
organizations,
tribal
representatives,
educators,
business
leaders,
tourism
partners,
chambers
of
commerce,
nonprofit
and
for-profit
arts
organizations,
downtown
businesses,
major
employers,
service
clubs,
elected
officials,
and
engaged
community
members
interested
in
fostering
a
stronger
creative
culture
across
the
Northland.
Hosted by the Superior Council for the Arts in partnership with Create Wisconsin, the City of
Superior
Public
Arts
Commission
and
the
Wisconsin
Economic
Development
Corporation
Office
of
Rural
Prosperity
(WEDC
ORP),
the
Summit
will
serve
as
the
second
gathering
in
an
ongoing
collaborative
placemaking
and
placekeeping
initiative
focused
on
strengthening
the
regional
creative
economy
and
civic
infrastructure.
Purpose & Vision
The summit will create an intersection of arts and economic development through a collaborative
process
involving
everyone
who
cares
about
the
future
of
the
region
and
Wisconsin
overall.
The event will:
●
Explore the role of arts and creativity in economic vitality, workforce development, civic
infrastructure,
tourism,
and
sense
of
place
●
Assess current creative assets, including artists, organizations, businesses, cultural
initiatives,
and
community
spaces
●
Identify opportunities to strengthen and expand the regional creative economy
●
Develop actionable next steps for collaborative programming, partnerships, and policy
alignment
●
Bring together individuals involved in creative placemaking, education, workforce
development,
and
community
engagement
Summit Features
The Regional Creative Industries Summit will include:
●
Structured networking and facilitated components
●
Invited speakers focused on the creative economy and community development
●
Panel discussions
●
Small-group facilitated discussions centered on creative asset mapping and initiative
development
●
A catered networking lunch featuring a local Superior restaurant
●
Professional facilitation by the Superior Council for the Arts, Create Wisconsin, and
WEDC,
and
hopefully
the
Superior
Public
Arts
Commission
(if
interested/able)
●
Multi-disciplinary artistic performances and live artistic performances and displays,
including
music,
live
painters,
theater,
dance,
and
interactive
arts
experiences
By integrating live artistic activation directly into the planning process, the summit models the
very
ecosystem
it
seeks
to
strengthen
—
positioning
creativity
not
only
as
content,
but
as
method.
Anticipated Outcomes
This Summit seeks to activate meaningful discussion and long-term action surrounding:
●
Arts and culture as essential drivers of economic growth
●
Workforce and educational development for the 21st century
●
Vibrant, accessible, and engaged communities
●
Regional and statewide collaboration opportunities
●
Awareness of creative programs and initiatives across Wisconsin
●
Actionable strategies to expand opportunities for artists, businesses, and residents
throughout
the
state
The event is designed for approximately 75 participants and builds upon a successful 2024
gathering
that
drew
approximately
25
attendees.
This
expanded
Summit
reflects
growing
regional
interest
and
continued
momentum
around
creative
economic
development
in
the
Northland.
Statewide Initiative
The Regional Creative Industries Summit is part of a broader statewide series of Creative
Industries
Summits
taking
place
across
Wisconsin
in
2026
through
partnerships
with
local
hosts,
Create
Wisconsin,
and
WEDC
Office
of
Rural
Prosperity.
Sponsorship Support
Funding from the City of Superior Arts Commission would directly support:
●
Venue and event logistics
●
Speaker and facilitator expenses
●
Artist and performer compensation
●
Community engagement
●
Marketing, outreach efforts and documentation: photos and video
●
Food and hospitality for attendees
●
Materials supporting long-term regional collaboration and planning
Together, we can continue positioning Superior and the Northland as a thriving center for
creativity,
innovation,
collaboration,
and
economic
growth
through
the
arts.
The Superior Council for the Arts sincerely appreciates your consideration and continued support
of
arts
and
culture
in
our
community.
Source: City of Superior website. First collected Oct 11, 2026.