The oldest, largest, and best-loved exhibition in North Dakota and Western Minnesota has returned once again. The annual Midwestern Art Exhibition is held every year to celebrate the founding of The Rourke Art Gallery in 1960 and features art from artists across the United States, from Massachusetts to California, and Louisiana to Minnesota. They present works in all media, all centered around a single theme: Daughters and Sons of Art History.

The theme for this year’s Midwestern Exhibition was inspired by Yasumasa Morimura’s portfolio, in which he created portraits of himself in the styles of admired artists. This year’s theme was to challenge our artists in a similar venture. As an art community, much honor and thanks is due to those who have influenced our ability to imagine and create.

Join us 18-19 June for this year's Midwestern celebration. The 50th Midwestern Exhibition centers around the theme of 'Daughters and Sons of Art History'. The awards this year were given by juror and artist Aaron Holz. Three award medals were issued as well as five honorable mentions. There are many opportunities scheduled for the celebration. We hope to see you there.

18 June, The Museum:
Preview the 50th Midwestern Exhibition
Opening the two new galleries above the Main Gallery
49th Anniversary Dinner at SARELLO'S

19 June, The Gallery:
Luncheon & Tree Planting by artist Aaron Holz

Some information on the two new galleries:

For the past few months, The Rourke Art Gallery Museum, with the aid of very generous donors, has invested in two new galleries. These galleries, both 19 feet square, hover above the Main Gallery. On 18 June we will be opening these galleries to the public. In these galleries will be two different exhibits from the Permanent Collection of The Rourke Art Gallery Museum, Islamic and Mexican art.

The Islamic Art Exhibit will feature the religious art from Egypt, India and Persia. This will be held in the western-most of the two new galleries.

The Mexican Art Exhibit is entitled "Tres Eras de la Tierra Nuestra" and spans three great eras of this region's culture: Pre-Columbian, Colonial, and Contemporary. Artifacts will be on display as well as art by Luis Jimenez. Also, new to the Rourke, artist Artemio Rodríguez will exhibit art.