Lanesboro Arts is a multi-disciplinary arts organization in the small town of Lanesboro, Minnesota – population of 754 – that serves diverse audiences through year-round programming in its galleries, at the St. Mane Theatre, and in public spaces throughout the community.
Mission: Lanesboro Arts serves as a regional catalyst for artistic excellence and educational development in providing diverse art experiences for people of all ages.
Vision: Lanesboro Arts aims to spark community development and social change based on the belief that the arts have the power to transform spaces and communities.
Values: Artist-Centered, Equity, Inclusivity, Community Stewardship, and Curiosity.
Artist-Centered – We aim to empower artists and culture-bearers, and tell their stories. We support work that demonstrates originality and meaningful creative expression while honoring both traditional and contemporary artistic practices. We make our home in rural Minnesota, and passionately believe rural artists and places have incredible worth. We pay artists and honor the value of their artistic work.
Equity – We are committed to amplifying voices that have been historically underrepresented in rural arts. We aim to create an environment in which everyone (all races, genders, abilities, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses) is valued and respected. We understand that as part of that commitment, we need to actively work to address real lived inequities.
Inclusivity – We offer multidisciplinary programs across all access points to art to serve artists and art makers of all ages, races, genders, financial status, and abilities. We are committed to making arts accessible to all members of our community, regardless of background, ability, or experience level. We aim to create understanding through storytelling, education, and knowledge sharing.
Community Stewardship – We commit to being responsible stewards of our resources, community connections, and environment. We believe artists and art strengthen and enrich the fabric of community life. Our philosophy centers the arts along with an actively engaged community to create a synergy of opportunities for placemaking and community betterment. We believe collaboration is key to creative problem-solving and future-dreaming.
Curiosity – We lean on the value of curiosity to lead us forward in growth opportunities, transparency, and self awareness. Staying curious about the people and places around us allows us to center playful exploration in our journey as an organization.