Twin Rivers Arts Council
Twin Rivers mission is to create an atmosphere or environment that supports creatives, educates the community on the value of the creative sector and integrates the arts into the fabric of our lives.
Our vision is to build strong communities through the collective power of creativity. We are working to broaden the definition of what creative work is and who is doing that work. In the 21st century, creative work includes software design, sound and lighting technicians, photographers, culinary artists and bloggers, just to name a few. We want to invite YOU to take your place at the table and find support and opportunities for growth within our expanding creative ecosystem.
Creative connections MICRO GALLERY SERIES
Creative Connections is an initiative created by Twin Rivers in collaboration with local businesses and artists to bring art to the community in unique business settings—transforming spaces into inspiring galleries and offering artists a platform for visibility and sales.
Carlson-Tillisch Eye Clinic - Featuring Artist Laura Sonnek
Tuesday, 4.14.26, 5:30-6:30 p.m
Fairfield Inn & Suites - Featuring Artist Kyle Rose
Tuesday, 5.12.26, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Mankato Free Press - Featuring Artist Charlie Putnam
Tuesday, 6.9.26, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Learn More About Our Creative Connections Series
Our 2026 Creative Connections are underwritten by Rooms & Rest.
Twin rivers writers series - Dr. Liz Mergen
Tuesday, 5.19.26, 6:00-7:30 PM
Shared Spaces at Emy Frentz, 523 S. Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001
Twin Rivers is excited to launch our 2026 Writers Series! Join us as we sit down with writers to discuss their work, experiences, process, future, and more. Each event will consist of a moderated conversation with the author and a Q&A with the audience.
Learn More About Our Writers Series
The Writers Series is underwritten by the Bryan & Tami Paulsen Charitable Fund.
BEST IN ART v5.26
Don't miss Twin Rivers Best in Art. Three artists will be showcasing their work in hopes of being awarded either the $500 People’s Choice Award, the $500 Juror’s Choice Award or both! The audience votes for People's Choice ! See you there.
Wednesday, 5.27.26, 5:30-7:00 PM | Shared Spaces at Emy Frentz, 523 S. Second Street, Mankato, MN 56001
Learn More About Our Best in Art Series
The 2026 Best is Art Series is underwritten by Tony & Anne Frentz.
2026 Twin Rivers WRITERS
Twin Rivers is excited to launch our 2026 Writers Series! Join us as we sit down with writers to discuss their work, experiences, process, future, and more. Each event will consist of a moderated conversation with the author and a Q&A with the audience. Mark your calendar with the dates below so you don't miss out on this exciting new series!
The Writers Series is underwritten by the Bryan & Tami Paulsen Charitable Fund.
2026 AUTHORS INCLUDED:
Dr. Liz Mergen | www.lizfiedlermergen.com
Tuesday, 5.19.26 6:00-8:00 PM Emy Frentz Shared Spaces, 523 S 2nd Street, Mankato, MN 56001
Summer Visiting Author - To Be Announced
Fall 2026 Community Read + Author Visit - To Be Announced
Learn more about Twin Rivers Writers Series.
NOW ACCEPTING COMMITTEE AND VOLUNTEER APPLICATIONS
Twin Rivers is currently accepting applications for committee members and volunteers. Our organization is seeking forward thinking, energetic people to help support Twin Rivers and our many new and exciting initiatives.
TWIN RIVERS BEST IN ART SERIES
The Best in Art Series features three artists showcasing their work in hopes of being awarded $1,000. Each of the three artists receives a stipend for participating, with event guests voting for which artist will receive the $1,000 grant. Best in Art is held three times each year.
ShopART Midwest
ShopART Midwest exists to connect artists and makers of handcrafted fine art to those who value high-quality arts and goods. It’s like an arts festival that’s always on!
Buyers are connected directly to the artist for sales. ShopART does not handle transactions. This allows 100% of each sale to go directly to the artist which supports our local creative economy. ShopART began during COVID-19 to connect as an online version of the GSR Fine Art Festival and now has transitioned to hosts fine artists from across the Midwest. Additionally, you can find and hire performing and literary artists on ShopART Midwest.
ArtBoard Project
ARTBoards is a Twin Rivers initiative that engages local artists to create original artwork reflecting something meaningful to them about Greater Mankato. Those original artworks are then reproduced as billboards and displayed throughout the region. ARTBoards was made possible this year by the generous support and contribution from Knutson+Casey, a Mankato law firm specializing in Personal Injury and Criminal Law.
