Custer Area Arts

10/15/2026

The Custer Area Arts Council is proud to announce that Catching Pinecones won the People’s Choice Award, sponsored by CAAC, at the 2026 Black Hills Film Festival, held October 2–4 at The Journey Museum in Rapid City.

Directed by Chad Heddleston, with cinematography and editing by Parker Michels-Boyce, the documentary celebrates legendary Black Hills rock climbers and Jewel Cave explorers Jan and Herb Conn and their pioneering legacy.

The film also received the festival’s inaugural Reel South Dakota Award for best film featuring scenes shot in South Dakota.

Custer Arts Council board member Hank Fridell presented the People’s Choice Award on behalf of the council, celebrating the film’s storytelling and its connection to the history and adventurous spirit of the Black Hills.

Congratulations to the entire filmmaking team!

Learn more about local arts programming, grants and events at www.custerareaarts.com.

10/14/2026

Dr. Molly Barrari will lead a discussion of this year’s One Book South Dakota selection, A Biography of a Mountain by Matthew Davis.

It's that time of year again! Dr. Molly Barrari will be leading a discussion on this year's One Book South Dakota, A Biography of a Mountain by Matthew Davis.
We have two copies in the library, so stop by to check it out. Whether you've read the book or not, join us on Saturday, October 17th at 11am for an interesting discussion on some local history.

10/14/2026

A new exhibit is on display at the Custer County Courthouse!

Stop by the Kim Horkey Memorial Gallery on the second floor and take a look at the incredible photography featured by members of the Black Hills Photography Club.

Beautiful images, talented local photographers, and a great reason to stop in and see what’s on display. Be sure to check it out!

10/13/2026

Don’t miss The Black Asters at The Trailhouse in Custer, SD on October 16th! This Spearfish-based acoustic trio brings a lively mix of folk, bluegrass, pop, rock and Americana, featuring original songs and familiar covers with their own unique style.

10/11/2026

Bluegrass Jam at The Custer Wolf

Whether you're an experienced picker or just enjoy playing with others, the Custer Bluegrass Jam is a great way to spend your afternoon. Join fellow musicians on Monday, October 12, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. at The Custer Wolf for an informal jam filled with great music and good company. Bring your instrument—and join the fun. All skill levels are welcome, 👉 listeners are invited to stop by and enjoy the music, too! 👈

10/08/2026

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes with CAAC? Have a creative idea to share, want to volunteer, or interested in becoming a member? Come join the conversation.

Custer’s arts community is built by people who share their ideas, talents, time, and enthusiasm—and there’s always room for more voices. Whether you’re an artist, arts supporter, creative thinker, or simply want to get involved, we’d love to have you.

Come connect, share an idea, and learn how you can help keep the arts thriving in our community.

10/07/2026

The Custer Area Arts Council is proud to sponsor the Custer Writers Group and support opportunities for local writers to gather, create, share ideas, and grow together.

Custer Writers Group — This Week’s Theme: Letting Go

Whether you’re working on a writing project, looking for inspiration, or simply enjoy the creative process, you’re welcome to join us. Our meetings are a relaxed, welcoming opportunity to connect with other writers, share ideas, receive thoughtful feedback, celebrate progress, and encourage one another to keep creating.

This week’s theme: Letting Go 🍂
We’ll spend some time exploring the idea of letting go through writing and conversation.

Meetings are free and open to the public for anyone age 14 and older.
Thursday, October 8 at 5:45 p.m.
Custer County Library – Pine Room

Please note: The library closes at 5:30 p.m., so please use the rear entrance—the double doors on the north side of the building. There will be signage on the door to guide you to the meeting.

If you’ve been looking for a creative community, we’d love to have you join us. Bring your ideas, your writing, or simply your curiosity—and feel free to invite a friend.

Thank you to the Custer Area Arts Council for helping make this event possible!

10/07/2026

😊🥰😊🥰😊🥰

The Custer Area Arts Council sponsored the Audience Choice Award and Catching Pinecones won. Hank Fridell from the council was at the festival to present the award. Congratulations to Director Chad Heddleston and DP/Editor Parker Michels-Boyce. Jan and Herb Conn will live forever in the hearts of climbers and cavers everywhere.