By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Our state rejoices in amazing attractions and destinations that are genuinely known around the world. Mount Rushmore is globally recognized. The Oscar Howe “Dakota Modern” exhibition has been stirring imaginations around the nation. And, to lovers of the rich panoply of musical history that defines civilization, South [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota We all know about the power of the arts to change lives—my own life as a performer and arts advocate has created opportunity, forged friendships and shaped my personality. The arts lift us, transform us, save us—but are we doing all we can to ensure that the [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Most South Dakotans are aware of the cultural destinations our state offers. We encourage friends and visiting relatives to check out our monumental sculptures from border to border, show our pride in the South Dakota Art Museum and other fine arts emporia and enthusiastically fill our summer [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota The inaugural issue of South Dakota Arts Journal just came out this month and we’re already receiving enthusiastic reviews from thousands of South Dakotans who are members of Arts South Dakota or subscribers to South Dakota Magazine. The collector’s first edition of South Dakota Arts Journal is [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota You may not think of yourself as an “arts” person, but if you stop to think about it, you are. From the clothes you wear to the wallpaper on your computer and phone, you consciously make creative decisions about the colors, decor and images you surround yourself [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Every South Dakota community is unique, with a fascinating combination of people and talent—and that is the recipe for a successful local arts council. An arts council in your town can spark entertainment, arts opportunities and community spirit, just as local groups have done in 37 South [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Winter may still have its grip on South Dakota, but travelers and communities are already thinking about the upcoming tourist season, energized by the recent Governor’s Conference on Tourism. And thinking about visitors to our state means thinking about our unique arts and cultural destinations. The arts [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota On February 15, Governor Noem will present the biennial Governor’s Awards in the Arts, sponsored by the South Dakota Arts Council and Arts South Dakota. You can read about the 2023 recipients and their outstanding contributions to the arts in our state at www.ArtsSouthDakota.org. Each is an [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Recently I had the opportunity to help out during a jam session at a local restaurant that promotes live music weekly and a special open stage jam session monthly. Over 30 musicians of all ages, skill levels and performance experience participated, and the level of enthusiasm and [...]
By Jim Speirs, Executive Director, Arts South Dakota Decisions made in Pierre and Washington, DC shape South Dakota’s cultural horizons, making Election Day a powerful tool for building our state’s creative future. On November 8, your vote for those candidates who support the arts is one of the most important advocacy steps you can take. [...]
