05/22/2026
May 22, 2026
Admittedly, sometimes I get overwhelmed with all the things that need to get done. Most of them are for other people, or for volunteering with an organization. Earlier this week I whined a little and said, “I can’t do it all. I won’t.”
And today was a fabulous day.
I don’t like to ask for help, but I did, and people stepped up. People offered. People volunteered. And there are even more helping next week on a few more projects.
Most of this work is for the nonprofit Range Art Association. We’ve grown so fast and now have a lot going on. We are incredibly grateful to the Michigan Arts & Culture Council (MACC) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). This year we received $31,590 in grant support, and last year we received $21,490. That’s $53,082 in grant funding, that’s measurable!!!
Thank you to our sponsors who have backed us each year we’ve asked: Incredible Bank, Suffolk Street Eatery, Edward Jones, Snow Country Contracting, Ironwood Chamber, and Downtown Art Place. It means so much.
Because of this support, art classes, supplies and equipment make things happen, exhibits can be organized, artists can be supported, and our little creative community can continue to grow in meaningful ways. Sometimes it’s easy to focus only on the workload and forget the impact behind it all. Today reminded me that none of this happens alone. It takes funding, volunteers, encouragement, and people willing to say yes when help is needed.
A special thanks to the friendship and business support of Sandy Sharp Design and Anne Atwood Reimer of Powderhound Lodge for countless conversations and marketing expertise. What a strong team we built before we even entered Range Art Association.
I’m learning that asking for help isn’t weakness. It’s part of building something bigger than yourself. And honestly, it feels pretty wonderful to be surrounded by people who care enough to jump in.
Because of that support, we’re able to offer more art events like Ironwood Chalk Fest, improve and expand the things we are already doing, and add more youth art sessions and family events throughout the summer, fall, and winter.
It’s a lot of volunteer work, but as everyone finds their niche, gives a little time, builds confidence, and gains experience, we can all be proud of the little things that turn into big things.
So although this is a long grateful and thankful rant, thank you to Cedar Nelson and Terry Hudson for working on the new Art Show rules. Thank you to Carrie Olson and Steve Anderson for taking charge and leading Ironwood Chalk Fest.
Thank you to Anita and Bruce for assembling frames for our Woodland Fairy projects. Thank you to Greg Jennings for assembling shelves and display grids. Thank you in advance for next week’s help with Gerry Traczyk organizing art supplies for workshops and events.
Thank you to musician Roy Brown and his wife Susan for sharing their expertise on outdoor sound equipment. Thank you to all the teaching artists and the artists who participate in the Range Art Show & Art Market. Thank you to our Studio Tour artists who open their places and spaces for the tour.
Thank you to all the Range Art members who attended meetings and offered suggestions, improvements, and ideas. Thank you to all the members who continue to volunteer their time for the events we work on each year.
Everyone is filling in the voids, and we’re getting things done.
I haven’t mentioned everyone by name, and my apologies for that, this is too long winded already, but know that I am eternally grateful for the support and for the continued dream of making sure art stays alive in our community for everyone to enjoy.
I was even able to sit with my dear friend Maryna Rouse to enjoy a nice conversation in the fresh air, surrounded by art in that little park across from Downtown Art Place. Life is Good!
When people ask if this is a good community to live in, I wholeheartedly say yes. Days like today remind me why.
Have a safe and fun weekend.
