Feb. 22—Willmar is building the first Fitness Court Studio presented by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota in the state this summer. The court will feature graphic artwork. It will include a large digital design mural and four other small areas of artwork. The court will be installed at Sperryville Park, and the mural wall will face U.S. Highway 71 across from Robbins Island.

The selected artist will be working closely with the National Fitness Campaign to ensure the artwork is aligned with Fitness Court design templates and standards. Submission must be in a high-resolution digital format. The work will be printed on a vinyl wrap for installation. The artist will be paid $3,000 for the completed design.

The art should promote positive, light-hearted imagery and represent local or regional values unique to the area. The goal is to share fun, vibrant, innovative artwork that tells the story of wellness and fitness in our community.

The deadline to express interest in pursuing the project is March 1. Email the Willmar Area Arts Council for more information at willmararts@gmail.com

The Lakes Area Studio Hop is looking for artists to participate in the June 16-17 event. The Studio Hop's purpose is to promote the creativity, ingenuity and economic vitality of the local arts community by increasing its visibility one weekend each year. It provides an opportunity for visitors to observe the creative process in action at local artist studios and workshops.

All artists must display original works created by the artist named on the application. Local artists who have participated in Studio Hop in the past are invited to participate and need only to submit the application, the participation fee and three images of their work.

New artists with a studio located in the area must submit an application, the participation fee and three images of their work for consideration by the Peer Review Committee.

Visiting artists (non-local) must submit an application, the participation fee and three images of their work for consideration by the Peer Review Committee.

Fees are $50 for Willmar Area Arts Council members, $75 for non-members. Applications deadline March 1. For more information contact the WAAC at

willmararts@gmail.com

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