The Nobles County Art Center

Elso Schiavo Exhibition

The Nobles County Art Center was organized in the fall of 1960 and incorporated in January 1961. The purpose of the corporation is to nourish the arts, and to bring the arts and cultures of other communities, nations and civilizations to Nobles County and the surrounding area so that it's residents become more universal in their thinking.

From our organization and incorporation, we have steadily grown to where we NOW offer a year of "special events" along with our monthly exhibitions and various gallery events.

TWELVE SHOWS A YEAR! Think about it. Each show is very different from its predecessor. Most of the shows offer salable art, giving an opportunity to purchase original art. A special televised reception for the artist-of-the-month is hosted by the art center. Admission and refreshments are free.

Each month is special, but some stand out as favorites. In April, the students host the Nobles County Junior-Senior High school student's show. The students hang the show, prepare and serve the refreshments. If they choose, they may also sell their work.

The amazing Area Art Show follows in March. It is a juried show with cash and merit awards. Beginning and professional artists within a 150 miles radius of Worthington, are invited to exhibit and sell their work.

Art in the Courtyard is our popular family outdoor festival, which is held on the first Saturday of August in downtown Worthington. Artists are invited from "everywhere" to display and sell original work. It is a juried art show with cash prizes and merit awards. The festival offers supervised activities for children of all ages. Also, day-long entertainment, music and various food booths offer a day of family fun.

Gala Open House for the holidays is offered during the holiday season. Open to the public, it features many artists who bring their creations, including quilts, jewelry, pottery, paintings and more. The work is for sale and presents a great opportunity to purchase unusual gifts.

Many students visit our gallery and teachers schedule tours every month.

We also support music, cinema and literature...all arts that extend beyond our gallery but may be viewed in a gallery setting. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year and twice a month we host "Great Books" meetings. During August, we also hold a Cornstock gathering, a multi-disciplinary event that spotlights area musicians and writers.