OKOBOJI, Iowa | Juli Johnson walked into a gallery containing a permanent collection representing artists from behind the former Soviet Union's "Iron Curtain."
"You never know what you'll find here," the interim director for Pearson Lakes Art Center said with a smile.
Johnson is correct in pointing out the 2201 Highway 71's facility's eclectic take on artistry.
In addition to its collection of Russian and Soviet Era Impressionism paintings, Pearson also has permanent collections dedicated to children's murals, an outdoor sculpture trail and the Pearson Art Foundation Collection -- a comprehensive series featuring American and European paintings curated under the supervision of Gerald "Bud" and Beverly Pearson more than 20 years ago.
The primary goal of the Pearson Art Foundation Collection -- as well as a principle established by the Pearson Lakes Art Center -- is to expand art appreciation by all members of the community and, specifically, to enhance the enjoyment of art by young people.
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Johnson said that's accomplished through an ongoing series of exhibits featuring a variety of artists.
"In addition to presenting works from such artists as (Sioux Falls-based artist) Christopher Hood; (oil painter) Lauren Chapman; and (Spirit Lake, Iowa muralist) Danielle Clouse-Gast, our guests will get to learn about individual pieces during artist talks," Johnson said.
Hopefully, a love of art can be contagious since the Pearson Lakes Art Center offers a host of art classes for both kids and adults.
That includes an interactive educational gallery called "ArtSmart."
"'ArtSmart' is a hands-on program that gives our visitors a chance to discover the creative process of an artist," Johnson explained. "It allows our visitors to expand their understanding of art in all area."
With exhibits that contain wind tubes, color wheels and magnetic boards, art really can be found anywhere.
Yet music fans should also take time to check out the Lauridsen Performing Arts Theatre, which will feature a diverse calendar of events that include big bands, a ukelele workshop as well as tributes to both Ritchie Valens and The Beatles.
"It's very important for us to represent the visual arts as well as the performing arts," Johnson said. "That keeps us relevant to the community."
So does the series of events that the Pearson Lakes Art Center hosts every summer. This includes a Community Art Crawl and Celebrate the Arts program (June 3 - 4); the Bedell Family Color Dash (July 9); and Art in the Park (Aug. 6).
"Lake Okoboji has a very impressive arts community," Johnson said. "The Pearson Lakes Art Center is happy to share that with our visitors every summer and all year 'round."Â
