Blog

Art Slam Manitowoc, hosted by the Lakeshore Artists Guild, will debut September 14-16 and 21 with artists in all medias creating pieces inspired by downtown Manitowoc. Artists will have only two days to make their works outdoors in downtown Manitowoc. 

“[The event] creates that energy and urgency of getting artwork done that weekend,” says Cheryl Mahowald, president of Lakeshore Artists Guild, a group of volunteers who promote Manitowoc-area arts. “As a part of our mission statement, we want to make art available and bring art to the community. It’s part of our job as we see it to make things happen.” 

Rahr-West Art Museum in Manitowoc

Each submitted artwork will be on display at the Rahr-West Museum from September 21-November 11. An awards
ceremony will be held on September 21 at 7:30 p.m. Artists will have the chance to win any of three awards, including the Ron Stokes-People’s Choice Award which will be decided with a public vote. 

Art Slam Manitowoc is open to the public. Attendees will have the opportunity to see the artists in action and take part in events held by downtown Manitowoc businesses. On September 15, Manitowoc Library will hold “Artenlunch” where people can bring a bag lunch and meet artists partaking in the event. There will also be a block party hosted by Moore’s Irish Pub in the afternoon and a Poetry Slam at Kathie’s Stage Door Pub from 6-8 p.m., both events are free. Attendees can also contribute to the Public Mural Project on Jay and 9th Streets throughout the day on September 15 and 16. 

“It seems there’s been a positive response to the art world from the community,” Mahowald says. “Our hope is to do this every year. We just hope to keep on going and grow every year.” 

For more information, visit lakeshoreartistsguild.weebly.com/art-slam.html or on Facebook at Art Slam Manitowoc.